Sardinia > Tourism in Sardinia

Tourism in Sardinia

Tourism in Sardinia is a relatively new phenomenon and until recent times there was little choice but to stay in modest inns or private houses, especially away from the largest towns and a handful of old, well-known seaside resorts. Today the quality of Sardinian tourist accommodation has reached the same high standards found in the rest of Italy (thanks in part to important events such as the establishment of a Sardinian tourist board in 1952, and changes in regional laws starting in the 1960s which incentivized investment from individuals and large companies). The coastal areas are not the only places driving the growth of tourism in Sardinia, with many areas once exclusively used for farming and grazing now offering fantastic holiday accommodation, such as Fonni and Oliena.

The number of different holiday possibilities is countless, stretching from your traditional hotel, to simpler, often more rural options like bed and breakfasts or agritourism farmhouses. Another possibility for those who want to immerse themselves in the mediterranean scrub and breathtaking landscapes of the Sardinian countryside is the campsite, particularly recommended to lovers of walking. A fantastic alternative to hotels or resorts is the self-catering holiday home, many of which have swimming pools and/or are right by the sea. If you are looking for a beach holiday you will soon notice the different characters of the various coastal areas. The Emerald Coast (Costa Smeralda) and the famous seaside towns near Olbia (including Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo) are very popular among the rich and famous, and whilst their 'exclusiveness' is questionable, they ooze style and sophistication. In contrast areas such as Santa Margherita di Pula, Porto Conte, Baia Sardinia and Villasimius are popular destinations for package holidays, whereas areas like Alghero, Santa Teresa di Gallura, La Maddalena, San Teodoro, Cala Gonone, Golfo Aranci and Muravera are popular among more traditional, independent tourists. In addition to these well known destinations there are many minor coastal towns and villages where you can find great accommodation at very good prices, especially in agritourism farmhouses, bed and breakfasts, and hotels, the rising stars of Sardinian tourism. The early days when Sardinian hotels were known for their lack of professionalism, offset only by the beauty of the island and the friendliness of the islanders, have long since passed, even in the lesser known places. Despite the growth of tourism in Sardinia the countryside retains its wild, uncontaminated beauty, and visitors always enjoy a completely authentic experience, never a manufactured one.