Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily. As a summer travel destination, Sardinia offers its visitors excellent choice in terms of attractions and sights. Whether you're after an active break or good old fun in the sun, you'll find adventure and relaxation in equal measures in the resort town of Alghero. The following is a guide to the best way to spend your time in Alghero and beyond.
Alghero Airport Mini Guide:
Alghero Airport is situated 11km from the town of Alghero in northwest Sardinia. The airport is served by a number of airlines including Alitalia, Air Industria and budget airline, Ryanair.
Things To See/Do in Alghero:
Alghero is one of Sardinia's most popular resorts and is one of the few places outside of Spain where Catalan is spoken. The influence of the Spaniards is not only evident in the language, but also in the local architecture. Walking around the narrow cobbled streets of Alghero's Old Medieval town is one way to get an insight into the history of the town. Today the old town has a laid-back feel. Restaurants offer picturesque Mediterranean Sea views, while cafés, bars and craft shops line the pretty side streets.
Alghero Bay is situated on the same stretch of coastline as the Old Town and is paradise for sun worshippers. Those looking for an active holiday will be glad to learn that it offers a range of activities including sailing, windsurfing and snorkelling.
There are plenty of other places of interest to visit outside of the town. The medieval town of Bosa is well worth a journey if you've decided to hire a car. The town lies approximately 15 miles outside of Alghero. Bosa boasts a 12th century Castle, Castello Malaspina, and offers visitors the chance to admire 14th century Catalan frescoes. Heading inland, a visit to the famous wine cellars of Sella & Mosca is a must for wine lovers. According to local folklore, Sardinian wines were produced to fortify the local men who constructed the round towers and fortresses that surround the coastline. Today Sella & Mosca is one of Europe's largest wineries. The estate extends over 650 hectares and is well worth a visit.
Eating Out/Nightlife/Accommodation in Alghero:
Due to Alghero's coastal location, low cost fish and seafood dominate the menu. However, other local specialities include Pecorino, which is a type of cheese made from sheep's milk and Malloreddus- a pasta dish served with sausage and tomato sauce. Spanish influences are also strong here, with Paella and Crema Catalana also featuring on the menu. However, Italian staples like pizza and ice cream remain ubiquitous and thrifty travellers on a budget will be glad to learn that eating out is cheap in Sardinia.
Nightlife in Alghero is easy-going and centres on the Piazza Civica in the Old Town, where locals gather for some after dinner ice cream, people watching and to soak up the atmosphere and music in general.
Accommodation in the resort of Alghero offers something to suit all budgets. Visitors can choose from budget B&Bs or cheap farmhouses to first class luxury and sea views.
