Italy
Sassari
Holiday Sardinia – Sassari
The province of Sassari is the northernmost province of Sardinia.
Sassari borders the Sardinian Sea to the north and west, and the provinces of Oristano and Nuoro to the south. It is a diverse area that has much to offer the holidaymaker, including the Maddalena Islands and the famous Costa Smeralda. The province of Sassari was established in 1859, before the unification of Italy in 1861. Today, the province consists of 66 municipalities and has 336.636 inhabitants (20,1% of the Sardinian population). The total area is 4281 km² (17,8% of the territory of Sardinia).
Sassari: a piece of history
The history of the province of Sassari dates back to the Neolithic period, when the first inhabitants began to settle there. The city itself did not emerge until much later, during the Middle Ages. The city suffered quite a few foreign attacks, which is why a large number of forts were built scattered throughout the city. From here, the city defended itself against those attacks.
Torres
The current location of the city of Sassari differs from that of the original city. The latter was situated on the coast and was then named Torres. Due to numerous pirate attacks and the outbreak of malaria, the inhabitants decided to move further inland and found a new city there. That city formed the basis for present-day Sassari.
Take a look at the history of Sassari
Traveling in the province of Sassari
Sassari is a versatile province that has much to offer in various areas. Whether you are looking for a city break, a beach holiday, or a hiking holiday, it is all possible here. And food lovers can also indulge themselves with the many typical specialties of the regional cuisine.
Nature
The province of Sassari consists of a rich green landscape with centuries-old olive trees, valleys, and nuraghes. The best-known nature parks are the Asinara National Park and the Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di la Maddalena.
The island of Asinara, with a surface area of 51,23 km² and a coastline of 110 km, has a predominantly mountainous surface. The island's flora has, roughly speaking, the same components as that of the mainland. Along the rocky coasts, low sea fennel, bird's-foot trefoil, and lavender grow. On the sandy shores, Bermuda grass, marram grass, santolina, and sea lilies can be found.
View one great video about Sassari
Culture
Culturally, besides Sassari itself, the city of Alghero is particularly worth a visit. The Caves of Neptune are also a remarkable attraction that you should add to your must-see list during your vacation.
Alghero
Alghero is a city with strong Catalan influences. It is also known as Barceloneta, or Little Barcelona. Almost a quarter of the inhabitants speak a Sardinian variant of Catalan. Alghero is one of the top destinations on the island. Consequently, there is much to see culturally, from archaeological excavations to churches and palaces. Highlights include the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Casa Doria, and the Chiesa di San Francesco.
Neptune's Caves
These stalactite caves, about four kilometers long, are only accessible by boat or on foot. The boat departs from the port of Alghero (weather permitting). The caves are part of Capo Caccia, a collection of impressive cliffs, see here for more information.
Stintino
In Stintino, one of Sardinia's best-known seaside resorts, smoking is prohibited on the famous Pelosa beach. Furthermore, you are no longer allowed to place towels directly on the beach; instead, a mat must be placed underneath the towel to prevent the intentional or unintentional taking of a few kilos of sand as a souvenir. There are also designated areas where you can wash your feet before leaving the beach.
Research shows that the smoking areas installed at the beginning of the walkways before entering the beach yielded more than 20.000 cigarette butts in a single weekend, which would otherwise have ended up in the sand or the sea. Tourists are therefore urged to follow and respect the guidelines in this regard.
culinary
The cuisine of Sassari is rich and varied. It consists of many dishes strongly linked to traditions and often featuring meat as the main ingredient. A well-known appetizer is mineshtra' en fasgioru (or mineshtra' en patatu), a soup made from beans, potatoes, bacon, wild fennel, and sun-dried tomatoes. As for main courses, which consist mainly of meat, you can enjoy traditional Cordula, lamb wrapped in intestines and cooked with peas, onions, and tomato sauce. The most famous dish is ziminu, sweetbreads cooked on the grill and sometimes marinated. However, the true specialty of Sassari cuisine is snails, prepared in various ways. Lumachine are cooked with potatoes, lumache with a spicy sauce or with garlic, parsley, and breadcrumbs. Lumaconi are served filled with a mixture of cheese, eggs, parsley, and breadcrumbs. Finally, there are the Monzette, recognizable by their greenish shells, cooked or fried in a pan with olive oil, garlic, parsley, and breadcrumbs.
A typical dessert from Sassari is the frisgiori longhi (long fritters), long strands of fried dough flavored with anise and orange peel. These are mainly prepared during the carnival period.
Due to its Catalan influences, the city of Alghero has its own culinary traditions. Alghero's cuisine is primarily based on fish and shellfish, such as the famous Alghero lobster. Some typical dishes include lobster all'alghero, coppazza, spaghetti with sea urchins, spaghetti with bottarga, and Alghero paella. Typical desserts are crème brûlée and Menjar blanc. Regional vegetables include coral tomato, camona tomato, and thistles.
The most famous wine from this region, the Alghero DOC, is primarily produced by the Sella & Mosca winery. Another popular Sardinian wine from this area is the Anghelu Ruju, whose vineyards are situated around an archaeological site.
Walking
Goceano is a beautiful hiking area. It is mountainous and lies between Monte Acuto and the mountains of Barbagia and Marghine. The features that characterize the area are the relief of Monte Rasu and the Tirso river with its many tributaries. The river feeds the wooded surroundings. Because the elevation changes here are sometimes relatively small, the area is also suitable for less experienced hikers.
Walking route
A beautiful route is the one from Vette del Goceano towards Valle del Tirso. It is about twenty kilometers long, making it suitable for a full day of hiking. The route starts at the village of Bultei, continues along an old road, and eventually leads to the forests of Fiorentini. Along the way, you will pass the walls of a Byzantine fort, the Church of St. George, and the archaeological site of Sas Prisones, among other sights. Part of the route runs through a protected nature reserve, the Parco Regionale Margine – Goceano and the Oasi di Protezione Faunistica.
Cycling
The province of Sassari challenges both novice and more experienced cyclists. Those who want to start gently can opt for the flatter forested area. Those seeking more of a challenge head into the mountains or venture onto a somewhat longer route through hilly terrain. Due to the heat, it is advisable to book a cycling holiday in the spring or autumn.
Cycling route
The old road from Sassari to Osilo is ideal for a traffic-free bike ride. The road has many bends and some slight elevation changes, making it a route suitable for less experienced cyclists as well. On a road bike, the route can be completed in an hour. After six kilometers (approximately halfway), Lake Bunnari lies on your right, which is certainly worth a visit.
Because there is little traffic on the route, it is also suitable for children. In that case, however, it is advisable to take rest breaks given the length of the route.
Wellness
The province of Sassari is the perfect place for a wellness holiday. There are various thermal baths to be found that offer a wide range of treatments. The three largest:
Casteldoria Thermal Baths: a modern spa complex consisting of two parts on the banks of the River Coghinas.
Aurora Spa: thermal baths with water sourced from 110 different springs. They are located in a plain near San Saturnino, and the water has a pleasant temperature of around 40 degrees.
San Saturnino Thermal Baths: thermal baths of Roman origin. The water is around 40 degrees and has healing properties.
Sassari, the city itself
Many of Sassari's sights are linked to the city's history. The numerous forts stand as silent witnesses to the various attacks on the city by foreign nations. The events, too, are a long tradition that is maintained to this day.
Culture
The most important cultural sights of Sassari at a glance:
- Church of Funtana Gutierrez (7th-9th century): a church carved into a limestone wall. In its first phase, the church consisted of two apses (circular apses side by side, containing an altar and separated by a central pillar). In a subsequent phase, a third apse in the form of a niche was added. On the left side of the church, a cistern was excavated, almost certainly from the Roman period and still in use.
- Church of San Pietro di Silki: this church is one of the oldest Catholic sites in Sassari. The church is connected to the Franciscan monastery and is located southwest of the historic center.
- Cathedral of San Nicola: The Cathedral of St. Nicholas is the most important church in Sassari. It is located in the historic center on Piazza del Duomo and dates back to the twelfth century.
- Palazzo Ducale: the Doge's Palace dates from the second half of the eighteenth century. Today, it is the seat of the municipal government.
- Walls of Sassari: The city walls were built in the thirteenth century, interspersed with 36 towers, of which only six remain. They are visible everywhere along the old town, and particularly on Corso Vico, Corso Trinita, and Via Torre Tonda.
Nature
Sassari has various gardens and parks, including the Public gardens (located in the city center, between Viale Pasquale Stanislao Mancini and Corso Margherita di Savoia). Additionally, there are the gardens of Via Venezia, the gardens of Monte Rosello, the gardens of Via Di Vittorio, the gardens of Li Punti, the recently restored Parco di Monserrato, Parco Baddimanna, a large pine forest in the Monte Rosello district, and the recently renovated Parco di Bunnari. It is lovely to walk or picnic in all these gardens and parks.
Events
Sassari hosts many religious and folkloric events that are known internationally. Here is a list of the most famous:
- Faradda di li candareri
August 14 is a major celebration in Sassari. The city is traversed by the Faradda di li candareri, a procession that concludes with a religious ceremony. Through this, the inhabitants honor the Virgin Mary, who saved the city from the plague in the sixteenth century. During the procession, they carry ornate candelabra on their shoulders. There is music and singing in the various squares, but this is often drowned out by the drums of the procession. - Sardinian Cavalcade
Every year, the Cavalcata Sarda is held on Ascension Sunday. This is a parade of folkloric groups from various parts of Sardinia, who walk or ride through the streets in traditional costumes. A colorful spectacle. - Festa del Voto
The Festa del Voto is held on the last Sunday of May, in remembrance of the promise Archbishop Arcangelo Mazzotti made to Our Lady of Grace during the Second World War, after a bomb fell on the station. The archbishop promised that a procession would be held every year from the cathedral to the Chiesa di S. Pietro. Since that promise, the city has not been bombed again.
The former province of Olbia Tempio, which merged with Sassari in 2016, is located on the northern side of Sardinia and is perfectly suited for a beach holiday thanks to its countless bays and long white sandy beaches. If you enjoy spectacle, be sure to take a look at the rugged rock formations shaped by nature, such as the Roccia dell'Orso (Bear Rock) in Palau. In short, Olbia Tempio is an absolute must-see!
Olbia Tempio: an introduction
Following a reorganization in 2001, the former Olbia Tempio was formed by the merger of parts of the already existing provinces of Nuoro and Sassari. As with many 'new' provinces, the province has two capitals that are reflected in the province's name, namely Olbia and Tempio Pausania.
Emerald Coast
The former Olbia Tempio consists of a total of 26 municipalities, has nearly 160.000 inhabitants, covers an area of about 3400 square kilometers, and is best known for the Gallura region and the Emerald Coast, or Costa Smeralda. Olbia Tempio is an ideal holiday destination for those who want to enjoy Sardinia to the fullest.
Olbia Tempio: a piece of history
The origins of the province of Olbia Tempio date back to a royal edict of May 1807, in which the island was divided into fifteen so-called prefectures. One of these consisted of the regions of Gallura and Anglona, the area now known as Olbia Tempio. In 1821, King Carlo Alberto reduced the number of provinces on the island to ten, eventually rising to eleven in 1833 with the addition of the province of Gallura.
Two provinces
After the unification of Italy in 1870, Sardinia was divided into only two provinces: Cagliari and Sassari. Due to the enormous development of tourism and the economic development of the Gallura and the city of Olbia, the demand for autonomy increased sharply in the second half of the twentieth century. However, every attempt to achieve independence stalled on the question of whether Olbia (the most important economic center and the largest city in northeastern Sardinia) or Tempio Pausania (home to many government buildings and historically the most important city of the Gallura) should become the capital.
Independent
The solution came in the late 2s, when two capitals were chosen: Olbia and Tempio Pausania. In 2001, the definitive independence of the province became a reality. Through the adoption of a regional law, not only Olbia Tempio, but also the provinces of Carbonia-Iglesias, Ogliastra, and Medio Campidano became independent in one fell swoop.
Out and about in Olbia Tempio
Olbia Tempio is versatile, making it suitable not only for a beach holiday but also for an active hiking and/or cycling holiday. Below is an overview of all the beauty the province has to offer in terms of nature, culture, and gastronomy.
Nature
Parco Fluviale del Padrongianus
One of the biggest nature attractions is undoubtedly the Parco Pluviale del Padrongianus. Located just five kilometers from Olbia, this park does a great deal for the conservation of animal and plant species. It covers an area of approximately 33 hectares, comprising a significant portion of the Padrongianus River and the surrounding area. The varied landscape makes it a great place to visit during an active vacation. Hiking, archery, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, birdwatching, or Nordic walking—it is all possible here.
The park employs guides who can tell visitors everything about the area (in Italian or English). Information boards have been placed along the route with information about the river, the flora, and the fauna, about which the guides themselves can tell you much more.
Tavolara Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area
That is quite a mouthful, but the Punta Coda Cavallo marine reserve, comprising fifteen hectares of sea and approximately forty kilometers of coastline, is considered one of the most beautiful in Sardinia. The coast features many charming bays with granite rocks. Underwater, various forms of Mediterranean coral can be found, which is very popular with divers. Since 2004, it has been a protected area, monitored by the Consorzio di Gestione dell' Area Marina Protetta, comprising the three coastal towns of Olbia, San Teodoro, and Loiri Porto San Paolo.
Bear's Rock
Besides beautiful sandy beaches, Sardinia also boasts plenty of rock formations. One of the most famous is the Roccia dell'Orso, or the Bear Rock. This Bear Rock is situated atop a mountain near Palau and is a popular tourist destination. Standing at an impressive height of 120 meters, this enormous piece of granite takes the shape of a bear. For 2 euros, you can purchase a ticket to visit this attraction, which involves climbing a 540-meter-long staircase that takes you right into the belly of the bear. Once at the top, you have a phenomenal view and can see Corsica and the La Maddalena archipelago. This is certainly worth a visit!
Culture
Olbia Tempio has a culture all its own, including its own language. The Gallura region has its own dialect, Gallurese. This is a Corsican dialect spoken in the southern part of Corsica (Sartène and Alta Rocca). Besides the capitals Olbia and Tempio Pausania, there are various places well worth visiting. A small selection:
Porto Cervo
A small port town on the northwest coast. A very popular spot for a beach holiday, due to its luxurious appearance. The old harbor from the 60s is particularly worth a visit.
La Maddalena
An archipelago of more than 60 islets off the coast of northern Sardinia. It is largely a nature reserve, but the main island, La Maddalena, is inhabited and can therefore be visited by boat. The unique rock formations and beautiful bays, in particular, attract many visitors.
Calangianus
The village of Calangianus is known for its many cork oaks and the associated cork producers. The numerous small factories and workshops are only too happy to show how they transform a piece of tree bark into the most extraordinary objects. Also great as a souvenir for both young and old!
Isola Tavolara
An uninhabited islet that towers 565 meters above the sea and is clearly visible from the mainland. Because a NATO base is located there, the largest part of the island is inaccessible. However, anyone who wishes can certainly make the crossing, visit the island, and relax on the beach. A nice boat trip, for example, from Porto San Paolo (approx. 15 minutes), followed by wonderful snorkeling in super clear water. For the real diehards, you can also climb the mountain with a guide and do all kinds of activities on the island.
If you arrive in Tavolara with your feet in the sand of Porto Taverna beach and you are hungry – try a table at da Tonino, Re di Tavolara. In this restaurant, right on the beach in the little harbor, you might just be served by the King of Tavolara himself, Tonino. In the 18th century, Carlo Bertoleoni, the head of the family that first settled on the island, declared himself king, and so to this day, Tavolara is the smallest kingdom in the world – Get an impression of the island of Tavolare by watching this video.!
Gastronomy
- Olbia Tempio features various regional dishes characteristic of the province. A selection from the long list of dishes:
- Anchovies with tomato sauce, fried with garlic, tomatoes, and parsley.
- Aranciata nuorese, a sweet snack made from oranges, almonds, and honey.
- Fregula o soccu, a pasta made from durum wheat, similar to couscous. It is mainly served in combination with seafood.
- Cabbage rolls, rolls with cabbage, potatoes, egg, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, salt, and pepper. They are poured over with broth and then gratinated in the oven.
- Sospiri, a sweet dessert made from almonds, sugar, lemon, and anise.
Walking and cycling
Olbia Tempio has several mountains (Monte Pinu, Monte Plebi, and Monte Cugnana), but also some flatter stretches. The province is interesting for both novice and more experienced hikers. The view of the island from the mountains is beautiful, and along the way, you can take a break in one of the picturesque villages. There are various routes, including trekking routes. The mountainous terrain also makes the province of Olbia Tempio ideally suited for mountain bikers. Many different routes are available, ranging from easy to quite challenging.
Walking route
A relatively easy route runs through the Gallura from Santa Teresa to Stazzo Lu Pinnenti. In about three and a half hours, you cover a total of twelve kilometers with minimal elevation changes. Along the way, you pass two remarkable sights: the Spanish Tower and the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Buon Cammino. From the coastal road, you walk straight inland before descending. A very varied route. View the card.
Cycling route
A relatively easy route departs from Sadali. In about two and a half hours, you cycle past caves, rocks, panoramic views, waterfalls, and even an old railway line, returning to Sadali after a few climbs and descents. Along the way, you also have a chance to catch a glimpse of the old steam train, the Trenino Verde. A very diverse route with beautiful mountain views. Read more about this road..
Wellness
One of the most famous spa springs in Olbia Tempio is that of Rinagghju. The cold water originates from granite rocks and is known to be beneficial for the urinary tract and circulation. The nearby spa specializes in treatments based on this special water.
Olbia and Tempio Pausania, the cities themselves
Both Olbia and Tempio Pausania are well worth visiting during your stay. They both offer a fascinating mix of history, culture, and characteristic events.
Sights in Olbia
- Corso Umberto I
This is the city's most famous shopping street. The place to be for shopaholics. - Corso Vittorio Emanuele
A street with various squares, green areas, and various bars. - Punic Walls
A wall from 350 BC. A section about 50 meters long has been preserved and can be admired on the east side of the city, between Via Torino and Via Acquedotto. - Sacred well
A so-called 'sacred well' from the time of the Nuraghe, the former inhabitants of the island. - Teatro Michelucci
A large theater along the coastal road towards Cagliari. It was the last work of the architect Giovanni Michelucci. - Archaeological Museum
The museum is located on a small island named Peddone. This museum depicts the history of the island using ancient remains and modern technology. It can be reached by boat from the port of Olbia.
Sights in Tempio Pausania
- The historic center of the city, built in blocks of grey granite.
- The Nuraghe Maiori (on the road to Palau). The Nuraghe are formed by two granite dolmens from 1000 BC.
- Nuraghe Polcu (also on the road to Palau).
- St. Peter's Cathedral, dThe Cathedral was built as early as the thirteenth century, but was significantly expanded in the Baroque style between 1832 and 1839 by Gian Domenico Canti. You will find the Cathedral on the central square, Piazza Gallura.
- De prison “La Rotonda” was built in 1845 and has a circular courtyard.
Nature
At 18 hectares, Parco Fausto Noce in Olbia is the largest city park in Sardinia. In 2005, it was lauded as the second-best green project in Italy. The park has no fewer than four entrances and is a popular spot for picnicking. Mediterranean oaks, olive and carob trees, and strawberry plants grow there. There are plans to expand the park even further by adding a section of the adjacent forest.
Events
- Feast of San Simplicio
The feast of the patron saint of Olbia and Gallura, San Simplicio, is celebrated on May 15. There are various activities, such as concerts and a grand fireworks display. Additionally, local mussels can be tasted. - Madonna of the Sea
A procession along the coast of Olbia, during which a statue of a saint is placed on a ship. This takes place every year in Olbia on June 24. - Fabrizio De André Festival
A festival in late July dedicated to poet and singer-songwriter Fabrizio De André, who lived in Tempio Pausania for a long time. The festival consists of short films, music, and art in the city center. In addition, a literary prize is awarded every year.
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FAQ
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Yes, our accommodations are very suitable for families with children. Many accommodations feature spacious family rooms, safe play areas, and sometimes even child-friendly facilities such as a swimming pool, entertainment, or baby cots. There are also often fun activities for young and old in the surrounding area. If you have specific requests, we are happy to help you find a solution!
Absolutely! A large number of our homes in Sardinia feature a private or shared pool, often with views of the sea or the hills. Perfect for a refreshing dip in the morning or for relaxing under the stars in the evening. Especially in the interior of Sardinia, a pool is a lovely luxury, as you are located a little further from the beach there. We also have accommodations with fenced pools, ideal for families with young children. Let us know what you are looking for, and we will help you find the perfect spot.
Absolutely. Sardinia is a dog-friendly destination, with plenty of space, nature, and quiet hiking trails. Your four-legged friend can hike with you in the hills, swim at a dog-friendly beach, or simply relax in the garden of your holiday home. Many of our accommodations welcome dogs, and some even have a fenced garden for added convenience. Let us know that you are bringing your dog, and we will ensure a stay where your loyal companion feels at home too.
Yes, absolutely. Especially outside the high season (May, June, September), beautiful houses are regularly available for a last-minute holiday. Ideal for those who want to spontaneously get away to the sun. Keep an eye on our website or contact us for personal assistance. Before you know it, you'll be standing with your feet in the sand, hearing the sound of the sea, and enjoying a plate of fresh pasta under a bright blue sky.
The best time to visit Sardinia is from May through October. In spring (May-June), nature is at its most beautiful: fragrant flowers, mild temperatures, and quiet beaches. July and August are the warmest months, perfect for a true sun, sea, and sand holiday. During this time, the island is also buzzing with atmosphere and festivals. In September and October, the climate is still wonderfully mild, the sea has warmed up, and the pace is a bit slower again. Ideal for couples, families with young children, or those who want to travel away from the crowds.
Sardinia feels like another world within Italy. You will find snow-white beaches, turquoise bays that rival the Maldives, and a rugged interior with quiet villages and centuries-old traditions. Sardinian cuisine is pure and flavorful, with dishes such as porceddu (grilled suckling pig), fresh pecorino, and local wines that you can only taste here. Here, you wake up to the sound of the sea, have lunch under the pine trees, and end the day on a terrace overlooking a sunset you won't soon forget. Sardinia is peace, space, and beauty all in one.