ABOUT AREA
Tucked in among the mountains, San Pantaleo is a rare traditional Galluran village and one of the prettiest on the island. Bursting with character, this charming village is set around a picturesque piazza along with lively cafés and several artisan shops. With its stone-built cottages, stunning position and relaxed atmosphere, many artists have been inspired to take up residency. San Pantaleo is also well poised to explore the many beaches on the Costa Smeralda and the bay of Arzachena. Eat out in the easily found pizzerie and agriturismi (farm restaurants) often owned by members of local families who were here long before any development started.
BEACHES
Tanca Manna
Tanca Manna sits approximately 250 metres from the road behind a saltwater lake. It has a great stretch of sand and plenty of facilities for families. A kilometre beyond Tanca Manna is Barca Bruciata, a small sandy beach which is quiet with no facilities.
Cala Capra
Cala Capra beach just beyond Golfo delle Saline is a pretty sandy bay tucked beneath the impressive Capo D’Orso headland with its distinctive bear shaped weathered rock.
Capriccioli
The Capriccioli headland has five beautiful small sandy beaches. There are facilities for boat hire and also a bar close to the beach. These beaches, including La Celvia, are amongst the most popular in the area.
Spiaggia del Principe
Rather off the beaten track is the Spiaggia del Principe which cannot be reached by car. The last stretch has to be done on foot takes under 10 minutes and is well worth the effort.
FESTIVALS
Louis Vuitton Trophy - Maddalena Island – May/ June
Sailing regatta.
Baltic Cup - Porto Cervo - June
Sailing show organised by the Yachting Club of Costa Smeralda.
Fish Festival - Santa Teresa Gallura - July
A festival inviting visitors to sample fried fish and delightful Vermentino wine.
Smeralda 888 European Cup - Porto Cervo - August
Prime sailing exhibition.
International Folklore Festival - Tempio Pausania - August
Held during Tempio’s summer carnival and featuring various ethnic groups from all over the world.
Time in Jazz – Berchidda - August
International Jazz Festival – one of the most important in Sardinia.
THINGS TO SEE & DO
Prehistoric Sites at Arzachena
Visit the prehistoric remains including the Albucciu Nuraghe – a bronze age tower, the Tomba dei Giganti Coddu Vecchiu and the Li Muri Necropolis, scattered around the town.
Pevero Golf Course
Considered amongst the best in Europe, Pevero is an 18 hole course located near Capriccioli. The course is prized for its beauty with natural ponds amidst the rocks, fragrant juniper, myrtle and arbutus trees and stunning sea views.
Inland Gallura
Explore by car or on foot the dramatic mountains of the interior, the rugged countryside and the small character towns and villages. Alternatively, leave your car in Palau and take the stream train to Tempio Pausania, a spectacular journey across the Galluran countryside.
Agriturismo
Sample traditional Sardinian cuisine in a farm restaurant. Amongst others, we recommend the Agriturismi Tenuta Pilastru, la Sasima or la Somara, all located near Arzachena.
Watersports
Discover the exquisite coastline from the sea and enjoy the excellent conditions of the north east coast for wind-surfing, sailing, diving, snorkeling, etc.
La Maddalena Islands
Spend a day cruising around and swimming from these stunning islands - a favourite with those seeking tranquillity, natural beauty and unspoilt surroundings. There are frequent ferries or boat trips available from Palau.
