Sardinia

Sardinia is often described as a continent in its own right within Europe – an island fought over and influenced by many peoples – Greeks, Romans, Spaniards, French and Italians have repeatedly invaded, ruled or fought the native Sardinians. Added to this are the mysterious remnants of the Nuragic culture from the 2nd millennium to the 3rd century BC, with their thousands of fortress towers.

The island is also characterised by its landscape diversity – barren, karstic mountain landscapes drop into the sea with breathtaking cliffs, bizarre rock formations in all shapes and colours criss-cross the land as at Capo Testa or Cala Goloritzé, and turquoise bays with dreamy beaches are second to none. On top of that, there are gnarled cork oak forests and steppe-like pastures. The towns and villages are still very authentic and are increasingly being spruced up for tourism. The beauty of the beaches can be compared to the Caribbean or the South Seas. Windsurfers and kitesurfers will find excellent conditions, while inland, climbers, hikers and cyclists will find plenty of tours for every taste and level of difficulty.