Destination: Olbia

Sardinia in the autumn is a must-see destination. It is especially appealing to those who love to immerse themselves right in the heart of nature, breathing in the earthy scents and feasting their eyes on the rich, resplendent hues of this most charming, evocative season. During the autumn, the island will gift you the best of itself in all its forms. Discovering Sardinia at this time of year enables you to take in its magnificence in total peace and tranquillity. The sweltering summer heat and crowded beaches give way to a mild climate, stunning natural beauty, a variety of landscapes, thrilling sensations and many new experiences.

This combination of elements makes Sardinia – sometimes referred to as an “open-air gym” due to its many opportunities for practising sports activities in a unique, pristine natural setting – the ideal destination for active tourists. It is the perfect place for those who love interacting with nature, whilst immersed in the maquis scrubland of the Mediterranean, surrounded by Sardinia’s vast array of dense forests and steep slopes. However, it is also perfect for those who seek cultural enrichment during their travels, combining active tourism with history and culture, whose tangible signs are infinite, includingthe Menhir monoliths, Dolmen and Domus de Janas tombs, the sacred wells and the Tomb of the Giants archaeological site, while numerous Nuragic funerary complexes are spread out across every part of the island, taking you back in time.

To round off your experiential trip to Sardinia and make it truly unforgettable, sampling the island’s rich tradition of food and wine is an absolute must. Its character is simple yet self-assured, with unique, authentic flavours that originate from the island’s agricultural and pastoral tradition.

An autumnal break in Sardinia also allows you to discover cultural festivals and events. The most famous is “Autumn in Barbagia” (Autunno in Barbagia), a food and wine event that also involves some 30 villages from inner Sardinia (the Barbagia region). During the period from September to December, these villages take it in turns to open up the courtyards of their houses to the public and accompany visitors on a discovery of the gastronomic and artistic excellence that Sardinia has to offer.

For further information, please visit: www.cuoredellasardegna.it/en

So what are you waiting for? Be inspired by Sardinia in autumn!

Fly to Olbia!

Olbia, an Italian town in the north-east of Sardinia, is well worth a visit. Paradise beaches, cultural and sacred places, lively markets… Olbia is full of surprises! Here’s a small glimpse of some of them.

Minor Basilica of San Simplicio

The Romanesque church of S. Simplicio is probably the most important monument in Gallura, built entirely of granite, and is now incorporated into the city center.

The building was erected in three distinct periods: the perimeter walls, the apse and the pillars are to be ascribed to the second half of the XI century, while in the first decades of the XII century the covering and raising of the walls of the lateral arches were completed. In the following decade the covering and construction of the façade was completed.

Originally it stood outside the ancient medieval city, surrounded by a large cemetery dating back to the Punic age.

The interior has three naves, divided by seven pillars and five columns. In the presbytery there is the ancient statue of San Simplicio, a fine sculpture of gilded wood dating back to the 17th century. There are also three ancient frescoes representing as many Holy Bishops.

The heart of the Basilica is occupied by the cult of the olbiesi Martyrs, the first in Sardinia who fell victims of Diocletian’s persecution. Faith in San Simplicio is testified, since the first hour, by the relics and among these by the blood of the martyr kept until today in his alabaster ampulla under the altar.

The church can be visited with guide service, for information Museum Civitatense +39 3456328150 / +39 3425129458 / +39 320 9706123 www.museumtempioampurias.it

San Simplicio Necropolis

The archaeological area shields part of the archaeological excavation carried out during the redevelopment works in front of the Basilica of San Simplicio.

The excavation is back to approx. 450 Roman tombs and represents a stratification of cult phases and necropolis that covers the first 2000 years of the city of Olbia history, from its birth with the Phoenicians to the Middle Ages.

The site can be visited with audio guide service, for information Tourist Office of the Municipality of Olbia ph. +39 0789 52206 info@olbiaturismo.it

Church of San Paolo

Dating back to the mid-18th century, it is characterized by a rectangular body and three chapels that give the building the shape of a cross.

The square bell tower entirely in granite and the Dome, built around 1939 and covered with polychrome majolica, have become icons of the city. Inside the building there are two eighteenth-century wooden statues dedicated to the Sacred Heart and St. Francis, the high altar, built entirely of marble, and the Venetian-style wooden pulpit. The walls are frescoed with paintings representing the Via Crucis. Also interesting are the art objects in silver, such as a halo and the sandals of the Assumption dating back to the seventeenth century.

Roman aqueduct

The aqueduct of Olbia was built by the Romans between the I and II centuries. a.C., to collect water coming from the springs of Mount Cabu Abas.

In Sa Rughittula the aqueduct acquires larger dimensions, with a large settling basin dug completely into the stone with a barrel vault and provided with six holes for ventilation. On the sides of the cistern there are two other smaller tanks and a water inlet and outlet shaft. On the arches you can still see the water transport canals.

Sacred Well Sa Testa

It was probably built at the end of the Bronze Age.

The construction consists of a large courtyard that gives access to a vestibule, in turn connected by a staircase with the “tholos chamber” that overlooks the source. The courtyard, accessible via a four-step staircase, is irregularly circular and is enclosed by a massive wall along which a seat unfolds, presumably designed to accommodate the people during sacred ceremonies.

From the courtyard, entirely paved, you have access to the well through a scale of seventeen steps. At the time of the excavation, the well gave back numerous finds referable to the Nuragic, Punic and Roman age, a sign of a certain continuity of use almost always connected to pagan rituals.

Archaeological Museum

The Museum illustrates the entire history of the ancient city and the territory of Olbia, from prehistory to the nineteenth century, with particular reference to the Phoenician, Greek, Punic and Roman phases of the urban and port area, the richest in historical and archaeological documentation.

Of particular interest are the Roman and medieval wrecks found in the excavation of the ancient port, corresponding to the promenade of the present historic center.

Olbia è l’unica città della Sardegna ad essere stata abitata dai Greci, tra il 630 e il 520 a.C. circa, e il nome che le danno, Olbía, che significa “felice” in relazione alle straordinarie opportunità che il sito offre all’insediamento umano, è stato adottato come nome e logo, in maiuscolo, del Museo.

The Museum stands on the small Isola Peddone, in front of the present-day port and already in ancient constituent element of the urban port system.

From the terraces, the view embraces the current port in the foreground and, at a distance of only 100 meters, the place of origin of the wrecks, in the broader context of the portion of the modern urban area that conceals the ancient city.

In the background, the whole of the internal Gulf, the plain behind it and the theater of hills that surround and complete this landscape-environmental system, so optimal in every age for anthropization, can be appreciated at 360 °.

The Archaeological Museum of Olbia also preserves the wrecks of two Roman ships, with rudders and other well-preserved materials in a special room at controlled temperature and humidity..

Tomb of giants Su mont’e s’Abe

The tomb of giants of Su Monte de s’Ape dating back to the Nuragic age rises a little less than a kilometer from the Casteddu nuraghe and a few tens of meters from the Castle of Pedres.

It is composed of a cell limited by two curtains of three regular rows of boulders. The dolmenic cover of the cell is entirely made with huge slabs. On the front there are thirteen slabs fixed to the ground that make up the Esedra, a sacred area reserved for sacrifices and offerings. Probably the tomb was the common sepulcher of the Nuraghe Casteddu.

It is of considerable importance for the length of the cell, over eighteen meters, greater than that of all the tombs currently found.

How to get there: from Olbia take the provincial road to Loiri, once you reach km 3.3 you turn right. After two kilometers you reach the parking lot below the Pedres Castle, from where you follow the short pedestrian path that leads to the tomb. The site is freely accessible at any time of day.



Fausto Noce Park

Public park with cycle paths, four fountains and numerous species of Mediterranean flora, benches, fitness trails, sports facilities (tennis courts, soccer field, small amphitheater). Water and abundant greenery have made Fausto Noce the favorite destination of families and sportsmen: the latter use the fitness trail and the various internal itineraries, while the small families walk more calmly or eat outdoor picnics.

“Porto Romano” Market (Tuesday)

Market Porto Romano is in the heart of Olbia, right next to Corso Umberto I, the main street of the historic center, convenient for parking of Via Nanni thanks to the entry of Via Porto Romano. Every Tuesday morning from April to September with time 8: 00-13: 00 offers local products, gastronomic specialties, crafts, artists, music and entertainment.

San Pantaleo Market “Artists’ Market” (Thursday)

In the pretty village of San Pantaleo every Thursday morning from 8.00 am to 1.00 pm. From the first Thursday of May to October 15 the market turns into a tourist attraction of reference for the Costa Smeralda and the small village explodes with colors and joy of life.

Saturday market Via Sangallo (Saturday)

In the area of Viale Aldo Moro every Saturday from 8.00 am to 1.00 pm, the biggest market of the week in Olbia, with local products, gastronomic specialties, clothing and much more.

Pittulongu Beach

Also known as “La Playa”, it is the favorite beach of the local population.

It is formed by a very fine and white sand with the presence of small shells; looks like a large halfmoon and has some bathing facilities that offer all the services, restaurants in the proximity of the beach and hotels nearby.

Well connected to the city by the ASPO bus services, you can get there by following the provincial road 82 for about 5 km; nearby hotels, restaurants, pizzerias and small markets.

Christmas is one of the most beautiful celebrations. It’s that point in the year when families gather at a table brimming with food and tell each other their news, laugh and enjoy spending time together.

In Sardinia, there are no dishes that are specifically for Christmas. However, traditionally some of the island’s typical specialities are prepared on festive occasions or for a special event. Let’s have a look at what can usually be found on the tables of Sardinian families at Christmas.

First course

Culurgiones

Culurgiones or culurgionis are a type of ravioli. The dish originated in Ogliastra and there are several variations of it. The classic culurgiones are made with fresh pasta stuffed with potatoes, cheese, lard or olive oil, and mint. They are usually covered with tomato sauce but this can vary too. They can also be baked or fried and unseasoned. What makes them special is the “spighita” closure – the ear of corn – achieved by pinching the two edges of the pasta disc until they are completely sealed, like a precious embroidery, giving this type of pasta its unique shape. This product has been marked as PGI, Protected Geographical Indication, thanks to its designated origin.

Malloreddus alla campidanese

Malloreddus are often called Sardinian gnocchi because they are a type of typical Sardinian pasta that is not commonly found in other regions of Italy. They originated in the Medio Campidano area. They are shaped like small striped sea shells and are made with semolina flour and water. The pasta and the seasoning are what make this dish unique. The malloreddus are served with a ragu made of a tomato sauce with pieces of Sardinian sausage. The meat is cooked with oil and small pieces of onion. Tomato sauce is then added and it is served with grated Sardinian Pecorino cheese.

Second course

Sardinian suckling pig

Porceddu is a dish that has won over the whole of Italy and tourists alike, making it the most famous dish in Sardinia. It may be called different names depending on which area of Sardinia you visit but it is prepared in the same way. It is not just any pig that is used, but a pig that has only been fed milk. Preparing porceddu is a sacred act. It is rigorously prepared and cooked on a spit in a wood oven. The final result largely depends on the skill of the person cooking it, as the outside must be crisp and the inside tender.

Dessert

There are many Sardinian desserts. In addition to the classic pandoro or panettone, you will often find papassinas on the table.

Papassinas

These are typical Sardinian pastries that are prepared mainly in November, on the Day of the Dead, and at Christmas. They are very simple to make. They are made with walnuts, raisins and wine, covered with icing and decorated. There are several versions that differ according to the area. Cinnamon and vanilla are used in the south of Sardinia, while in the north they use orange and lemon.

Just like all regions of Italy, Sardinia boasts a great variety of dishes; we have only covered the most typical and famous dishes here. One thing’s for sure: in addition to the sea and the beaches, another great reason to come to Sardinia is the food.

Sardinia has a very ancient history. Much of its history is linked to the Nuragic civilisation. Scattered across the island you can find nuraghe, the houses used by the Nuragic people, and their tombs. These prehistoric monuments date back over 4 thousand years.

They are called Giants’ Tombs because legend has it that huge bones were found inside.

The structure of the giants’ tombs is very particular: the outside consists of stones placed vertically in the ground and arranged in a semi-circle, recalling the shape of a bull’s horns. The base, seen from above, is reminiscent of the muzzle of a bull or the female reproductive organ. To the Nuragic people, the bull represented male divinity and was therefore a symbol of strength and power, while the female organ symbolised birth.

This shows that the Nuragic people represented life and death in the same way. It is therefore thought that they wanted to represent the union of birth from the female organ into our world and then the rebirth into another. As everyone was equal in Nuragic culture, bodies were buried together inside the tombs without differentiating based on gender or social class.

There are many Giants’ Tombs in the area of Sardinia between Olbia and the town of Arzachena. Just near the famous Emerald Coast there are three tombs: that of Coddu Vecchiu, near the Nuraghe La Prisgiona, and those of Capichera and Li Lolghi.

In Olbia, you can find the giants’ grave of Su mont’e s’Abe, the largest tomb in Sardinia. It is located a few kilometres from the airport.

To date, 320 Giants’ Tombs have been found and have become UNESCO World Heritage sites.

There are many legends and uncertainties about the tombs and the Nuragic civilisation but one thing’s for sure: they are unique structures that cannot be seen anywhere else except in Sardinia. I recommend adding them to your travel itinerary.

Olbia is ideally located just a few kilometers from some of Sardinia’s the most beautiful sights. The best way to get around is to rent a car at the airport. This makes it easier to travel independently and arrange trips at your own convenience. Quite a few of the beaches and other attractions are difficult to reach by public transport.

San Teodoro

San Teodoro is located about half an hour south of Olbia by car. It is a small village in the Gallura area. With its villas and floral streets, it is a very pretty and welcoming village. Inhabited by around five thousand people during the winter months, it is transformed in summer as it welcomes tens of thousands of visitors. La Cinta is a must-see: it is a long stretch of white sand dunes surrounded by clear blue water. The beach is very popular with families, young people and nature lovers. San Teodoro is also a stopping point for pink flamingos during the migration season.

Golfo Aranci

Golfo Aranci is one of the most famous resorts in northern Sardinia. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting this part of the island. The town is located just 11km from Olbia. Its name alludes to the large numbers of crabs living in the depths of the surrounding sea. Beyond the beaches, Capo Figari Natural Park is another popular tourist destination. This is an open-air museum with breathtaking views over the surrounding landscape and a great place to see marine treasures.

Costa Smeralda

The Costa Smeralda grew out of the dream of Prince Karim Aga Khan, who fell in love with this part of Sardinia and decided to finance its development, establishing a series of hotels and restaurants. Sardinia’s best-known and most exclusive location is Porto Cervo. Directly in front of the port is the Piazzetta, famous for its clubs and boutiques. Despite the large numbers of tourists that visit every year, the Costa Smeralda remains breathtakingly unspoilt and rich in nature.

The Maddalena ArchipelagoTo the north east of Sardinia lie the unique islands of La Maddalena. This is an archipelago of several small islands, some of which are completely uninhabited and wild. The islands are: La Maddalena, Budelli, Caprera, Spargi, Santo Stefano, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli. The largest and most densely-populated island is La Maddalena. The archipelago has numerous hidden coves and magical pink beaches. Guided tours of La Maddalena can be booked at Palau. Tours last a day and include all the islands of the archipelago. If you want to spend more time in this area, there are several ferries from Palau that take you directly to La Maddalena. From there, you are free to plan your own journeys.

Voyage over an emerald sea, past characteristic coves and beaches of white sand to reach Sardinia, an island that strikes visitors with its natural contrasts and a bold, colourful region that boasts old traditions and wild, pure nature.

1) Crystal-clear seas and white beaches

From long stretches of soft white sand to rugged coves, spectacular dunes, sparkling pebbles and grains like rice, you will always find the beach of your dreams in Sardinia. In fact, with over 1,800km of unspoilt coastline, Sardinia is renowned for its beautiful beaches and the clearest azure seas in the Mediterranean. The coastline varies enormously from north to south and east to west, yet wherever you are in Sardinia, you will find stunning coastlines with beautiful bays and beaches, from the famous Costa Smeralda to the unspoilt south coast with its many deserted beaches and turquoise sea.

2) Sports tourism

Thanks to its mild climate, Sardinia is the perfect place for enjoying many outdoors activities all year round.  From activities for the whole family to those for expert sportspeople, there are a thousand ways to experience the less well-known corners of our island. For sea lovers, the crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving, canoeing, kayaking or sailing. On dry land, you can choose between cycling, horse riding, trekking, free climbing and golf.

3) Culture and traditions

Sardinia’s history is age-old, as can be seen from the archaeological evidence dotted throughout its land. The tangible signs of the prehistoric island are endless: menhirs, dolmens, domus de Janas, sacred wells, tombs of the giants and nuraghes. These enormous stones have been guarding secrets for four thousand years and are testament to the presence of ancient peoples and civilizations.

It is easy to immerse yourself in local Sardinian culture by visiting the traditional festivals held every year on the island and getting stuck into the traditional medieval celebrations, spectacular horse shows and colourful folk paradise.

4) Typical food

The quality Sardinian products and flavoursome dishes owe their tastiness to thousands of years of history. In fact, Sardinian cuisine is still very similar to the way it was many centuries ago.

Sardinia’s delicious specialties are based on simple, authentic ingredients with strong yet delicate flavours that never fail to amaze.