Whilst Sardinia may be known for its upmarket hotels, exclusive seaside towns and marinas filled with luxury yachts, there is plenty of natural beauty to explore on a Sardinian escape.
With around 1,200 miles of coastline, the fine sands and pristine waters are a truly special feature in Sardinia. Inland the island is covered in maquis a wonderful blend of evergreen shrubs and small trees. The heady scents of local flora fill the balmy air, with scents of helichrysum and myrtle.
Sardinia is covered in vibrant pink flowers of the Sardinian cistus, as well as holm oak, cork, strawberry trees, wild olives, juniper and prickly pear. In May and June, the island’s mountainous regions are awash with wildflowers such as yellow daisies, wild orchids and anemones, the perfect time of year to explore on foot before the summer heat begins.
To get up close to the natural side of the island without hiking up into the hills, there are many beautiful open gardens to visit around the island, here are two of our top picks:
• Jardin Botántico de Cagliari: Consisting of 12 acres of land right in the city centre, this beautiful garden sits between Villa di Tigello and the Roman Amphitheatre. These botanical gardens were founded in 1866 by Patrizio Gennari, and now have over 2,000 different species. Now managed by the University of Cagliari, the gardens are characterised by Mediterranean flora, with plenty of archaeological remains from various periods.
• Parco Aymerich, Laconi: This is Sardinia’s largest urban park, covered in lovely nature trails, and surrounded by many amazing plant species and medieval ruins. These gardens were founded as a way for the owner to plant many of the rare plants brought back from trips abroad.
Of course, with the fantastic standard of hotels within our range, comes some expertly kept, manicured gardens where the scents of the island waft through the grounds. Here are our expert’s top picks:
Hotel Relax Torreruja Thalasso & Spa: This fabulous 4-star hotel is in the picturesque village of Isola Rossa, the ideal place to unwind and enjoy this beautiful Mediterranean island. The mixture of warm sea air and the scent of helichrysum and broom in the maquis scrub is the perfect tonic for switching off. Enjoy the on-site spa with a multitude of treatments using aromatic scrubs and aromatherapy, whilst sipping a blend of herbal teas and infusions.
Hotel Su Gologone: Nestled in the magnificent foothills of Supramonte mountain range, this 4-star hotel is a true hidden gem. Built in the local style, Hotel Su Gologone has plenty of charm and character, with secret courtyards and spectacular views throughout. Colourful plants climb the buildings and dainty plants in pots dotted everywhere, provide a beautiful environment to stroll through. Most of the rooms have stunning views of the forest-clad mountains, whilst the rest have views over the lush gardens, a delightful stay in the heart of the Sardinian countryside.
Country Resort Parco Degli Ulivi: The ideal country retreat with stunning gardens and a freeform pool to rejuvenate around under the Mediterranean sun. As you relax on your sunlounger, you are treated to breathtaking views of the maquis-covered granite rocks surrounding the hotel. The well-kept grounds provide plenty of lush green lawns to walk through and the on-site restaurant uses freshly picked produce from the hotel’s vegetable garden.
Mountains and Vineyards
Of course, no holiday to Sardinia would be complete without visiting their vineyards and sampling the delicious wine. There are plenty to choose from and our guests can now book wine tasting tours in Arzachena and Olbia. Tours last three hours and include transfers to and from the vineyards, a wonderful way to soak up more of natural Sardinia’s offerings. Speak to a member of our team when booking your holiday.
If a walking holiday is something that you are seeking, central Sardinia is the place to be! With beautiful mountain ranges, varying landscapes and great walking for all ages and abilities. Enjoy getting up close to the flora of the island as well as jaw-dropping vistas.
