Sardinia and the Cavalcata Sarda Festival

From sunlit coastlines to ancient villages and the sound of trumpets and celebrations, centuries-old customs thrive alongside glittering harbours, wild interiors and the open blue of the Mediterranean. Travel by ferry to La Maddalena, walk the streets of Castelsardo and Alghero, and discover vibrant murals in Tinnura plus beautiful Bosa. With local tastings, ancient sites and the colours and spectacle of the Cavalcata Sarda festival, this journey reveals the many faces of a fiercely proud island.

ITINERARY

Day 1:   Fly from London Gatwick to Olbia 
On arrival in Olbia, transfer by coach to the hotel.

Day 2:  Costa Smeralda - Palau - La Maddalena 
This 10 kilometre stretch of coastline is one of Europe’s most exclusive beach destinations for a good reason – it is breathtakingly beautiful. Lovely beaches and rugged cliffs and rocky coves give way to crystal clear waters whilst on land, purposeful subtle development has created glamorous resorts set against a backdrop of lush hills. Continue to Palau, where you’ll board a ferry to the island of La Maddalena. Enjoy free time for lunch and
exploration at your own pace - the lovely compact historical centre is perfect for a stroll, and the beaches are excellent. Return to Palau and travel back to Olbia. This evening, gather for a welcome drink and dinner with wine, a perfect introduction to Sardinian hospitality.

Day 3:  Tempio Pausania and Nuraghe Majori
Amongst wild scrub and spectacular cork forests, Tempio Pausania is a small village with a history that can be traced back to the 16^th century BC. Once a prosperous town, its Byzantine granite Cathedral is set against harsh, austere ground-level dwellings and small stone buildings. We then explore nearby Nuraghe Majori, an early bronze age fortified tower on a natural rock outcrop. One of the most important prehistoric sites in the region, its ogive corridor is well preserved along with the high parapet which allowed observation the district’s other principal nuraghe. Enjoy a traditional Sardinian lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon explore the Museum of Cork, showcasing the region’s cork production heritage.

Day 4:  Castelsardo to Alghero
The beautifully preserved medieval town of Castelsardo perches picturesquely on a promontory above the Golfo dell’Asinara. The town grew up around its castle, which now houses a museum of basketwork, built in 1102 as the seat of the powerful Doria family of Genoa. The historic centre is a warren of atmospheric medieval streets, perfect for strolling this morning. Continue on to Alghero, stopping for a wine-tasting enroute. 

Day 5:  Full day tour in Sassari 
Spend the day in Sassari enjoying the colourful Cavalcata Sarda Festival. Watch the traditional parade and explore local festivities. In the afternoon,
visit a medieval church Santissima Trinità di Saccargia before returning to the hotel.

Day 6: Alghero
Enjoy a guided walking tour of Alghero’s historic centre, with its Catalan-Gothic architecture and seaside charm. The rest of the day is free to explore independently or relax at the hotel.

Day 7: Tinnura and Bosa
Visit the Nuraghe of Santu Antine, then travel through Tinnura, known for its vibrant murals. In Bosa, enjoy a Malvasia wine tasting and explore the town. Return to Alghero via a scenic coastal route.

Day 8: Departure
Free time in Alghero then transfer by coach back to Olbia airport for your return flight to London Gatwick.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 22 passengers. 

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Gatwick to Olbia including applicable taxes 
• Seven nights' accommodation on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis at the four-star Hotel Corallaro, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room 
• Transfers by coach from the airport to your hotel and touring itinerary
• Return ferry from Santa Teresa di Gallura to Bonifacio, Corsica
• Local guides and tour manager throughout 

NOT INCLUDED

• Single room supplement 
• Room upgrades - standard room with balcony, standard room with balcony and sea view, superior room, superior room with balcony, superior room with balcony and sea view 
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls 
• Porterage and gratuities 

HOTELS

Hotel Panorama, Olbia – 3 nights

Hotel Website

Hotel Catalunya, Alghero – 4 nights

Hotel Website

These well-appointed, four-star hotels are in a prime location, ideally situated in or nearby the historic centres. Both hotels offer a fitness centre, stylish rooms, and a rooftop bar which offer panoramic views of the old town and sea.

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