Destination: Olbia

Less than twenty minutes from Olbia, there is a beach that sums up perfectly what many travellers look for in a seaside holiday in Sardinia: white sand, shallow water, transparent colours, views of Tavolara and a simple atmosphere that feels more local than worldly.

Porto Istana does not need big introductions or organised excursions to win you over: just head down towards Murta Maria, a district of Olbia, park up or arrive by bus, walk a few metres and choose your own corner of the beach.

It is one of the best options for those staying in Olbia who want a full day by the sea without renting a boat, going all the way to the Costa Smeralda or planning an entire expedition.

Where you’ll find Porto Istana

Porto Istana lies south of Olbia, in the Murta Maria area, at the foot of the Capo Ceraso promontory and facing the marine area of Tavolara. It is a convenient beach for those arriving in the city by plane or ferry, or for anyone using Olbia as a base to explore north-eastern Sardinia. From the centre, it can be reached by car in about 15-20 minutes, following the SS125 towards Siniscola/Murta Maria and then the signs for the beach. Those who do not want to drive can also get there by bus.

Its location is one of its strengths. It is not a “remote” beach, but it is not an urban beach either. It has an interesting balance: close enough to Olbia to be chosen even for half a day, yet open and scenic enough to make you forget the city immediately. That is why it works very well on the day you arrive, when you do not want to drive too far, or on the last day of your holiday, before heading back to the airport or port.

About the beach: four coves, white sand and shallow water

Porto Istana is not one single uniform stretch of sand. It is made up of several sandy sections separated by small granite rocks and natural passages that create different coves within the same bay. This shape makes it more interesting than it may seem at first glance: moving just a few metres is enough to find a different exposure, more shelter from the wind or a seabed better suited to children.

The sand is pale, very fine and pleasant even for walking barefoot. The sea slopes down gently and remains shallow for several metres, an essential feature for families with small children, less experienced swimmers or anyone who simply wants to stay in the water without challenging waves. On calm days, the colour shifts from transparent light blue to turquoise, with deeper tones where the seabed changes in depth.

The view is dominated by the island of Tavolara. You see it straight ahead, close and vertical, without needing to get on a boat to reach it. This is exactly one of the reasons why Porto Istana is worth visiting: it offers one of the best views of the island while staying comfortably on the coast. You can spend the day swimming, reading, having lunch at the bar and waiting for late afternoon, when the light softens and Tavolara’s profile becomes even sharper.

A perfect beach for families, but for others too

Porto Istana is particularly suitable for families because it combines shallow water, soft sand and services. It is not a wild beach where you have to bring everything with you: there are equipped areas, the option to rent umbrellas and sun loungers, bars, paid parking and useful services during the season. This makes it practical for those travelling with children, for those who do not want to carry too much, or for anyone who prefers a beach day without complicated logistics.

At the same time, it is not only a “family” beach. Those looking for a long, quiet swim will find clear, accessible waters; those who like to move around can explore the small rocky areas at the sides; those who snorkel can observe fish and shallow seabeds without professional equipment. It is simple snorkelling, close to the shore, ideal for beginners or for anyone who wants to alternate swimming and a mask.

The beach is also frequented by locals and Italian visitors, and this gives it a different character from some of the more international and polished resorts of the north-east. The atmosphere is relaxed: towels on the sand, families arriving in the morning, young people with masks and fins, someone stopping at the bar for a coffee or a quick lunch.

A tip: in general, before leaving Olbia it is worth checking the direction and strength of the wind. With a light or moderate breeze, Porto Istana remains very pleasant. On windier days it can still be very nice, but you need to choose carefully where to settle and perhaps avoid the central hours if the sand becomes annoying. The side rocks and the changing orientation of the coves help you find a more comfortable spot. For those who practise windsurfing or light sailing, the wind can be a plus. For those travelling with small children, it is better to arrive early, observe the sea and choose the stretch with the calmest water.

Where to eat near Porto Istana

For a simple lunch, the easiest solution is the beach bars and kiosks: sandwiches, salads, coffee, soft drinks and quick dishes allow you to stay by the sea without interrupting your day. Those who prefer a more structured lunch or dinner can head towards Li Cuncheddi, Murta Maria or Porto San Paolo.

Zinnibiri, in Li Cuncheddi, is a good option for a lovingly prepared dinner after the beach: Italian and Sardinian cuisine, fish, grilled dishes and outdoor tables, in an area very close to the coast. It is better suited to the evening than to a quick lunch in swimwear.

Farè Restaurant, in Porto San Paolo, works well for those looking for an informal but complete dinner, with Italian cuisine, fish, pizza and Mediterranean dishes. It is also practical for families, thanks to its services and parking area.

Trattoria Barbagia Al Mare, in Li Cuncheddi, is another good choice for those who want to alternate sea and Sardinian cuisine, with fish, pizza and Mediterranean dishes. It is located a short distance from the coast and can be a good stop after a day between Porto Istana and the nearby beaches.

Where to stay nearby

The most practical choice is Olbia, especially for those who want to combine the sea, restaurants, evening strolls and trips to other areas of Gallura. Staying in the city allows you to reach Porto Istana quickly, but also Pittulongu, Bados, Porto Rotondo or San Teodoro without changing base.

Those who prefer a quieter stay can look for accommodation in Murta Maria, Li Cuncheddi or Porto San Paolo. Murta Maria is convenient and close to the beach; Li Cuncheddi is more secluded and suitable for those who want to stay near the sea; Porto San Paolo offers more services, restaurants and a splendid view of Tavolara. For families or week-long stays, residences and apartments can be a good solution because they allow more flexibility with schedules and meals.

What to do after the beach

After a day at Porto Istana, you can continue your plans without long transfers. One idea is to stop in Porto San Paolo for an aperitif with a view of Tavolara: the village is small, but pleasant for a sunset walk and a fish dinner.

Those who want to explore other beaches can head to Li Cuncheddi, smaller and close by, or to Spiaggia del Dottore, a little bay with clear water reached by a short walk. To the north, on the way back towards Olbia, there are Pittulongu, Lo Squalo, Il Pellicano, Mare e Rocce and Bados: convenient beaches, suitable for different days and easy to combine with a base in the city.

For a more active day, you can plan an excursion in the Tavolara and Molara area.

Why choose Porto Istana

Porto Istana is the right beach for those looking for the Sardinian sea in its most accessible form: beautiful, clear, scenic and easy to reach. It does not have the built-up exclusivity of some of the more famous places, and that is exactly why it works. It is a straightforward beach: you arrive, choose your cove, get into the water, look at Tavolara and realise you do not need much else.

For those starting from Olbia, it is a simple answer to a common question: where can you go to the beach without wasting time? Porto Istana is one of the best options. In June, moreover, it becomes almost perfect: lively enough to offer services, quiet enough to leave room for the beauty of the place. An unpretentious beach, in the best sense of the word.

Light-coloured sand, wind scented with Mediterranean scrub and coves reachable on foot: around Olbia there is a simpler, more authentic and surprisingly accessible Sardinia. Far from the yachts, close to the real sea.

Another Sardinia, Just Minutes from the Airport

There is one Sardinia, made up of exclusive resorts and legendary names of the Costa Smeralda. And then there’s another that begins just outside Olbia: beaches frequented by locals, unsurfaced car parks, bars on the sand where you can order a coffee in your flip-flops.

Olbia is often considered just an arrival point, but it is in fact the perfect place to start exploring a more natural northern Sardinia, without the need for private boats or luxury beach clubs.

Here, the rhythm is set by the wind — mistral or sirocco — and the choice of beach changes from day to day. It is a tangible, luminous and accessible Sardinia, perfect for low-cost travellers, couples and lovers of the real sea.i del mare vero.

Pittulongu and Bados: The Locals’ Beaches

Less than 15 minutes from the centre lies Spiaggia di Pittulongu, the ultimate “city beach”. Light sand, shallow and transparent waters, views of the island of Tavolara. In spring and early summer it is perfect for long walks; in high season it remains pleasant during the morning hours.

Next to it, the more sheltered Spiaggia di Bados is loved by families and groups of friends. An informal atmosphere and a few simple beach bars where you can enjoy a cold beer at sunset. Here you don’t need reservations or a dress code;: just a towel, a bit of wind in your hair and time to slow down.
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Cala Banana and Nodu Pianu: Small, Wild and Reachable on Foot

For those seeking something more intimate, Cala Banana is a small cove between granite rocks and crystal-clear waters, easily reached by car and a short path. No resorts, just sea and silence.

Even quieter is Spiaggia di Nodu Pianu, perfect on days with light mistral winds. The sand is pale, the seabed slopes gently and the atmosphere remains relaxed even in summer.

These are ideal places for those who want to avoid the crowds of the Costa Smeralda without giving up spectacular sea views.

Porto Istana and Capo Ceraso: Light, Wind and Open Views

Facing the imposing island of Tavolara, Spiaggia di Porto Istana offers one of the most iconic panoramas in the area. Divided into small coves, it allows you to choose the most sheltered corner depending on the wind.

For those who love walking, the Capo Ceraso area offers seaside trails and practically deserted coves even in the height of summer. All you need is a bit of exploratory spirit — and comfortable shoes.

Here, you see Sardinia in its purest form: granite, Mediterranean scrub, turquoise water and silence.

How to Choose the Right Beach (Depending on the Wind)

In Sardinia, wind plays a leading role.

• Mistral (from the northwest): it is better to choose more sheltered beaches facing southeast, such as Porto Istana.
• Sirocco (from the southeast): beaches facing north, like Pittulongu, work well.
• Windless days: Cala Banana and Nodu Pianu are perfect for calm seas and crystal-clear water.

A practical tip: always check local forecasts before heading out. Changing beaches can turn a windy day into a perfect experience.

Where to Stop: Simple Villages and Genuine Venues

After the sea, it’s worth stopping in Olbia’s Old Town for a simple aperitivo among its narrow streets and small squares. No ostentatious luxury: crisp Vermentino wine, a platter of pecorino and the traditional flatbread, pane carasau.

A few kilometres away, the village of San Pantaleo offers an artistic and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a sunset stroll among stone houses and small artisan shops.

To eat without formality:

• Local trattorias where you can order culurgiones (potato-filled pasta), fregola with seafood or grilled fish. Our favourite: Trattoria Il Gambero (via la Marmora, 6/A, Olbia); a true local institution, without frills. You come here for fregola with seafood, mixed grilled fresh fish and simple seafood starters. A homely atmosphere, fair prices and popular with the locals. Perfect after a day at Pittulongu.
• Beach bars for a bottarga sandwich or an ice-cold Ichnusa beer. Our favourite: Chiringuito Bados, a small informal bar on Spiaggia di Bados. Perfect for a simple aperitivo or a quick sandwich between swims. Mixed clientele: locals, families and surfers on windy days.
• Farmhouse restaurants in the countryside for a simple dinner based on porceddu (suckling pig) and Sardinian red wine. Our favourite: Agriturismo Cabu Abbas (via Cabu Abbas, Olbia); just a few minutes from Olbia but immersed in the countryside. Traditional fixed menu with: Sardinian starters, roasted porceddu, seadas (cheese pastries) with honey and local red wine included. A rustic and convivial atmosphere. Ideal for those who want to experience an authentic evening.

These are places where atmosphere matters more than elegance, and where prices remain in line with an affordable trip.

A More Authentic Sardinia, Beyond Luxury

Olbia is not only the gateway to the Costa Smeralda: it is the entry point to a Sardinia made up of free beaches, wind in your hair and unfiltered sunsets. Here, luxury means finding a parking spot near the sea, choosing an almost empty cove, staying until the last ray of sunlight. It is a simple, natural and inclusive beauty.

Moving away from the most exclusive circuits means discovering a Sardinia closer to the Volare vision: authentic, accessible and lived at the local pace. And if you love exploring destinations beyond the most famous postcards, let yourself be inspired by the other Volare articles dedicated to Olbia: new routes, new beaches, new stories to experience light-heartedly.

An island/mountain just a few minutes from Olbia: emerald-sea beaches, scenic trails up to the ridges, dreamy backdrops within a Marine Protected Area. A perfect trip for people who love nature, the sea and walking.

It’s worth saying right away: Tavolara is THAT unmistakable profile you can already see from the plane; a blade of limestone rising up out of the Tyrrhenian Sea, harbouring pristine beaches, fragrant scrubland and protected waters. It seems a long way off, but it is just a step away from Olbia. Getting there is easy, being there is a gift. No road or noise, just the wind, salt and the gentle rhythm of the Mediterranean. Sublime if you are looking for a day (or two) of detox split between sea-view hikes and clear water swims. The island lies at the heart of the Tavolara-Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area: 76 km of coastline and 15,000 hectares of crystal clear waters from Capo Ceraso to Punta S’Isuledda.

A paradise just a stone’s throw from Olbia

Tavolara is a limestone and granite mountain around 560 metres high and a few kilometres long overlooking the gulf between Loiri Porto San Paolo, Olbia and San Teodoro. The natural amphitheatre of Mediterranean scrub (juniper, rosemary and lentisk) frames beaches and coves facing out on an impossibly turquoise sea. The extra touch of charm? The legend of the “world’s smallest kingdom”. In the nineteenth century, Giuseppe Bertoleoni was “crowned” as its sovereign by Sardinia’s then ruler, Carlo Alberto, a tale that still lends a cheerful note to the island’s history.

How to get there: simply (and spectacularly)

Just a short crossing from the coast: boatmen leave all year round from Porto San Paolo and private boats also leave from Olbia and Golfo Aranci in high season. You go ashore at Spalmatore di Terra, where the pier and the refreshment places are found. It is a good idea in summer to book and check schedules and return times. The crossing takes around 15-20 minutes, but spaces fill up fast in the middle of the day.

Beaches and coves: the Spalmatore di Terra

The postcard image of Tavolara is the sandy tongue of the Spalmatore di Terra: two bodies of water, one on each side, Caribbean tones and the rocky “wall” rising behind it. Here the seabed slopes gently, making it perfect for swimming, snorkelling and spreading your towel between sea lilies and the juniper bushes. It is also the most convenient starting point for exploring the island on foot… and for lunch with a view of the massif.

Hiking: ridges on high above the blue sea

If you love walking, Tavolara delivers. The easiest routes run along the plain of the Spalmatore, offering magnificent views of Molara and Capo Coda Cavallo in just a few minutes. For more experienced people though, the ultimate challenge is the Ferrata degli Angeli, an “EEA” route (for experienced hikers with gear) that climbs up the southern slope to the ridges leading to Punta Cannone (the highest peak, at around 560-565 m). This spectacular, exposed route calls for sure-footedness, proper equipment and, if you are not a via ferrata climber (experienced with gear-assisted routes), a guide. Spring or autumn are better options, as the sun is fierce in mid-summer. 

Underwater: a biodiversity sanctuary

A world opens up around the island: meadows of posidonia seagrass, walls and crevices teeming with schools of damselfish, salema and saddled seabream. Dolphins are often spotted, and during the season, the elegant osprey can sometimes be seen soaring above. The Marine Protected Area shelters species and habitats by means of a zoned system (areas with increasing protection): respecting it safeguards the ecosystem and ensures a truly “living” sea. If you love scuba diving or snorkelling, ask the authorised centres for the best sites and rules for access. 

Stories and legends with a salty flavour

As well as the “kingdom” of Tavolara, marine culture is all around here: ancient landing places, a little cemetery that tells the story of lives linked to fishing and navigation and a summer film festival that has drawn directors and actors to the Spalmatore for decades for seafront screenings. The evenings of the festival are unique: you arrive by boat from Porto San Paolo and watch the film with the smell of salt and the rustle of the scrub.  

Hiking or the beach? Here’s how to get organised

— “Gentle” half day: boat in the morning, panoramic walk on the plain and dip at the Spalmatore. Casual lunch and return in the afternoon.
— “Active” day: morning climbing with a guide (Ferrata degli Angeli / peak), lunch break at the Spalmatore, afternoon snorkelling in the permitted areas.
— With children: staying in the Spalmatore area; the sea is shallow and everything is close by.

Protected nature: simple (and valuable) rules

Tavolara is fragile: do not litter, remove sand or shells or drop anchor outside the permitted areas (ask the boatmen), no flying of drones or playing of loud music. If you snorkel, do not step on the posidonia; when walking, stay on the trails. These are small gestures that make a difference in an ecosystem so close at hand… and so special. 

A perfect base for exploring the Gallura region

Tavolara’s “sister”, Molara, Capo Coda Cavallo and the beaches of San Teodoro (La Cinta, Cala Brandinchi, Lu Impostu) are all within easy reach of Olbia. You can get there in a trice, and each bay offers a different shade of blue. 

Practical tips for enjoying Tavolara at its best

— When to go: spring and early autumn are best for hiking and for the sea. Choose early morning or late afternoon during the summer.
— How to get there: from Porto San Paolo all year round. Also from Olbia and Golfo Aranci on private boats during the main season. Book in high season.
— What to take: water (no water sources are available), snacks, sunscreen, hat, mask and snorkel; shoes with proper soles for the trails.
— For walkers: the via ferrata is for experienced people and requires gear and guidance; find out about the weather, boat times and return times.

Close your eyes… and go again

Tavolara stays with you: the scent of rosemary, the rustling of the mistral, the mountain plunging into the sea. It is a trip that makes you say “again!”, and the good news is that it is so easy to get away to Olbia. Ready to take flight? Volotea takes you to Gallura and from there, Tavolara is just a stone’s throw away – the adventure has already begun.

When we talk about Sardinia, we immediately think of the crystal-clear sea, the beautiful beaches and those shades of blue that are just as stunning as the ones in the tropics. But Olbia, the gateway to Gallura, is much more than just your point of arrival; it’s the perfect springboard for some amazing adventures, in and out of the water.

Never mind the holidays you see in the brochures. Come here if you want to experience beauty, make discoveries, and leave with your eyes full of wonderful sights and your mind full of memories.

The magic of the sea, a stone’s throw from the city

Olbia is ideally positioned to embark on your discovery of some of Sardinia’s most iconic coastlines. Just a few miles out, you’ll be in paradise, with sights such as the archipelago of La Maddalena, where Cala Coticcio (also known as “Tahiti”, and deservedly so) will take your breath away. Or the natural pools of Molara, the cliffs of Tavolara, and the beaches with such lyrical names as Cala Moresca, Cala Sabina, Cala del Principe…

But if you’d rather just look at the sea from afar, whilst enjoying a nice glass of Vermentino perhaps, you could take a trip inland to explore the landscape of Gallura. Here, with its myrtle- and juniper-scented hills, granite villages and hidden wine cellars, you’ll discover the other side of Sardinia: the one that speaks of shepherds, traditions and ancient flavours.

Exploring with Sea Bounty: adventure with a capital A

Now, we know that deciding what to do (and who to do it with) can be a real dilemma, so we’d like to help you out by recommending Sea Bounty. They’re not your normal tour operator; more like a group of Sardinian explorers with a passion for authentic experiences and a good eye for what’s truly worth doing.

With them you can rent a scooter or bike and lose yourself (safely) among the paths along the coast. Or you can take a trip on one of their boats – modern, comfortable, driven by someone who knows the waters like the back of their hand – and set off for a day to remember. Every excursion is designed to amaze, whether you opt for a trip on the water to the hidden coves, or for a minivan tour of the real Gallura.

And the best thing is that they’ve tried it all out for themselves. Every itinerary, every means of transport, every stop. As if they needed to recommend it to a friend – to you, in fact. And they’re not joking when they say that they want your time on holiday to be well spent. They know the importance of reliability, transparency and zero stress. And best of all, they know this wonderful region inside out.

Arranging your excursions from Olbia

If you’re planning a stay in Olbia and want to turn it into a memorable trip, Sea Bounty is just the team to have at your side. Not only for the activities they offer, but for the peace of mind they provide. They’ll help you choose, plan, book, and will advise you on what’s truly worthwhile doing. It’s like having a local friend with all the knowledge, the difference being that this friend also has boats, scooters, minivans and expert guides to accompany you.

Whether you’re a sea lover, a nature enthusiast, a curious foodie or simply a traveller in search of inspiration, here you’ll find the right experience for you. And with Sea Bounty on board, you’re sure to sail off in the right direction.

Olbia, the pearl of northeast Sardinia, is perfectly positioned for anyone who’d love to explore the island’s stunning east coast. 

Whether you’re a lover of wild off-road adventures or a romantic sailor in search of blue horizons, this town literally lays the sea (and much more) at your feet. But today we’re off sailing! Here are the best boat trips from Olbia, with crystal-clear waters, curious dolphins and fairytale islands.

Tavolara Island: where the dream comes true

Just a few minutes by boat from Olbia, Tavolara Island rises majestically above the sea like an enchanted mountain. Once considered a kingdom (yes, an actual kingdom!), it’s now an idyllic spot for those looking for turquoise waters and untamed nature. The crossing takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on the type of craft chosen, and every second is a treat for the eyes.

Some practical advice: pop your water shoes and snorkel mask in your backpack: Spalmatore di Terra beach is a snorkellers’ paradise, and you might find a few nice curious fish. If you want to do things in style, there are also sunset tours with an aperitif. The sun going down behind the jagged outline of the island? Your romantic side will thank you for it.

The Gulf of Olbia: beauty on your doorstep

You don’t need to go far to be amazed: the Gulf of Olbia, often underappreciated, has some stunning views, peaceful inlets and a rich biodiversity. There are half-day mini-cruises, perfect for young families, where you can relax and also take a dip if you like.

On the trip, it’s easy to spot herons, cormorants and maybe the odd dolphin, playing in the boat’s wake. So you can experience a “National Geographic” moment here too! Take your binoculars and put your explorer’s hat on.

La Maddalena Archipelago: the dream just a boat trip away

One of the most spectacular day trips out of Olbia is definitely the one to the archipelago of La Maddalena. It takes a bit longer to get there, around an hour and a half, but it’s worth every single wave of the journey.

Unmissable stops: the natural pools of Budelli (the ones with the pink sand!), the island of Spargi with its picture-postcard coves, and La Maddalena itself, of course, perfect for a stroll through its colourful streets, and for an artisan ice cream. Many tours provide lunch on board and stops for bathing in idyllic bays.

Dolphin watching: thrills on the water

Who wouldn’t love to see a dolphin up close? The waters off Olbia are inhabited by these wonderful creatures, especially in the areas between Golfo Aranci and Capo Figari. Several companies run dolphin-watching boat trips, often in small groups for a more authentic experience.

The trips last around 2-3 hours, so it’s an ideal way to spend a morning doing something different. There’s no guarantee of seeing the dolphins every time, but when you do, the excitement you feel is unforgettable. A word of advice: opt for tours that respect the environment and the sea life; this is for the benefit of everyone, including the dolphins.

Golfo Aranci: colours, fragrances and a touch of glam

Last but not least, the trip to Golfo Aranci. Less than 30 minutes by boat, this town has whiter-than-white beaches, secluded coves and some perfect places for an aperitif overlooking the sea after your trip.

As well as the stunning sea views, there’s also the town itself, with its colourful houses and a lively, but never hectic, atmosphere. An ideal place for those seeking to combine nature with a bit of high life.

Ready to set sail?

Whether it’s for a few hours or for the whole day, a boat trip from Olbia is the key to discovering the most authentic and spectacular soul of Sardinia. With iconic islands, crystal-clear waters and close encounters with nature, every trip is a lasting memory.

You don’t need a sailing licence, just a taste for the sea and a bit of suncream. Leave the rest to the magic of Sardinia.

Sardinia is a charming land of untamed beauty, and the province of Olbia is one of the island’s brightest gems. In the north-east of Sardinia, Olbia is a wonderful gateway to a world of unspoiled nature, picture-postcard beaches and an ancient history dating back to the Nuragic Age.  

This part of the island is great for hikers, with routes combining archaeology and stunning scenery, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

Olbia: combining history and breathtaking scenery

Olbia is much more than just a town that you pass through; it’s a starting point for exploring the natural and historical wonders of Gallura. The surrounding area offers a whole host of amazing views, from the inland granite mountains to the coastal paths overlooking the crystal-clear sea. Here, nature and history embrace each other perfectly, with ancient nuraghi and the Tombs of the Giants set within landscapes of rare beauty.

For anyone wishing to immerse themselves in these unique surroundings, hiking is the ideal way to explore the region. So here are five hiking itineraries to take you on a fascinating journey in and around Olbia, combining the thrill of adventure with the wonder of discovery.

The best Olbia hiking itineraries

1. Riu Mulinu and the Castle of Pedres. Delving into the history of the Nuragic Age

• Difficulty: Medium
• Duration: 3 hours (there and back)
• Climb: 250 metres
• Features: Archaeology and nature

The route to the nuraghe of Riu Mulinu is one of the most fascinating for history lovers. Starting from Su Monte ‘e s’Ape, the path winds across the fragranced Mediterranean scrub and leads you to the archaeological site. The nuraghe, standing on top of a hill, offers spectacular views of the Gulf of Olbia and the surrounding mountains.

The itinerary continues towards the nearby Castle of Pedres, a medieval fortification dominating the Olbia Plain. This route is perfect for anyone looking for a mix of history and nature, with breathtaking views the whole way along.

2. Capo Ceraso coastal path. Between the sea and untamed nature

• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 2 hours
• Climb: 100 metres
• Features: The coast

Capo Ceraso, just a few kilometres from Olbia, is paradise for lovers of paths with spectacular sea views. The route, suitable for all levels, runs along the coast and through small coves, wind-sculpted granite rocks and stretches of Mediterranean vegetation.

The highlight of this hike is the view of the crystal-clear waters and the island of Tavolara, a mountain rising straight out of the sea. This route is perfect for a leisurely day out, with the chance also to stop for a dip in one of the coves.

3. Monte Pino. A panoramic inland hike

• Difficulty: Medium
• Duration: 4 hours
• Climb: 400 metres
• Features: The mountains

If you like the mountains, the Monte Pino hike is a must. This route runs through inland Olbia, through holm oak and cork oak forests. The climb is challenging but very worthwhile, with unrivalled views of the Gallura coast and the islands of the Maddalena Archipelago.

Along the way, you may come across some local fauna, such as wild boar, eagles and mouflon (wild sheep). Once you reach the top, your efforts will be rewarded by an amazing view, stretching from the mountains to the endless blue of the sea.

4. San Pantaleo and the Rocks of Cugnana. A journey of art and nature

• Difficulty: Medium
• Duration: 5 hours
• Climb: 300 metres
• Features: Nature and art

San Pantaleo, a small town famous for its artists and artisans, is the starting point for a hike combining art and nature. The trail takes you through the amazing Rocks of Cugnana, a group of granite formations with strange and fascinating shapes.

The route passes olive groves, vineyards and woodland, taking you into the world of Gallura’s agricultural traditions. San Pantaleo, with its workshops and markets, is the perfect place to finish the day off with a spot of culture.

5. Parco di Tavolara – Punta Cannone. Climbing the mountain above the sea

• Difficulty: Hard
• Duration: 6 hours (there and back)
• Climb: 600 metres
• Features: Adventure

For the expert hiker, climbing Punta Cannone on the island of Tavolara is an unforgettable experience. The route starts off with a short boat trip across to the island, followed by a challenging hike along rocky paths with breathtaking views.

At the top you’ll enjoy spectacular 360^o views of the Gulf of Olbia, the island of Molara and the Sardinian coastline. This route is only recommended for experienced hikers who are physically fit, but the reward is one of the most beautiful views in the entire region.

Sardinia: a paradise waiting to be discovered, all year round

Sardinia is an enchanting land at any time of year, and if you visit outside of the summer months you’ll discover an authentic and peaceful side to the island. The mild temperatures and sunny days in spring and autumn make these seasons perfect times for outdoor activities such as hiking.

By exploring Olbia and its surrounding areas on foot, you’ll experience the charm of this region to the full, with history and nature coming together within a setting of extraordinary beauty. Whether you’re a fan of history, a nature lover or simply an adventure seeker, Olbia has something unique and unforgettable in store for you. Just get your backpack ready and come and discover the delights of this corner of paradise.