We’re only halfway through 2020 and it’s already been a bit of a rollercoaster ride, and that’s putting it lightly.
Covid-19 has touched every part of the world, and unfortunately Sardinia is no different.
Looking on the brighter side of things, life in Sardinia is gradually returning to a new kind of normal. The Italian lockdown is gradually coming to an end. As of June 3rd, travellers from other EU countries have been allowed to enter Italy.
On June 21st Ryanair will begin flights to the island again from 17 international destinations. These include Dublin, London-Stansted, Madrid, Valencia, Brussels, Frankfurt, Budapest, Paris, Krakow, Manchester, Dusseldorf, Baden-Baden, Porto, Seville, Warsaw, and Bratislava.
Now, I’m not saying that everything is completely normal in Sardinia and that 2020 will be like any other tourist season, because it won’t. Sardinia is open for business, but cautiously.
Measures are being taken everywhere on the island to avoid spreading Covid-19, and cases are gradually decreasing.
So, without further ado, here are 5 reasons why you should visit Sardinia this summer.
1. The Weather
Sardinia is a paradise, there’s no other way to put it. The main reason I personally love the island though, is that it has an average of 300 days of sunshine a year!
If like me, you’re from a wetter part of the world, you’ll appreciate the fact that it hardly ever rains during summer.
The temperatures range from the mid-20s in May and June (around 75 degrees Fahrenheit for any American readers) all the way up to 40C (104F) in the middle of August.
In September, the temperatures gradually drop back down to the low 30s (86F).
2. The Beaches
If you’ve never been to Sardinia before, and you’re a beach lover like me, you’re in for a real treat when you get here. The beaches in Sardinia are some of the best in Europe, if not the world.
Sardinia has a beach for every occasion. And, if you rent a car, you’ll be free to see some of the best.
From turquoise blue water lapping white sandy beaches, to sheer rock faces meeting the sea, there’s something for everyone.
Even during the busiest tourist seasons, you can always find somewhere secluded to enjoy!
3. The Mountains
If you’re not too much into beaches, there are other options too. Sardinia has plenty of world class mountain hiking and trekking trails in the centre of the island. There are trails for beginners and experts alike, as well as world class climbing spots with spectacular views.
The mountains in the Barbagia and Ogliastra regions are definitely nothing to be sniffed at. Hidden away near the town of Orgosolo, you’ll find Su Gorropu, one of the deepest canyons in Europe.
4. The Food
Sardinians take a lot of pride in their food. The food is very regional and different to most other Italian regions, although there are some similarities, as well as influences.
To the south, Carloforte is a Genoan “colony” so you’ll find pasta with pesto, and local focaccia, as well as other Ligurian influenced dishes.
In the northwest, in Alghero, with its Catalan roots, you’ll find Spanish and Catalan style recipes such as Aragosta alla catalana (Catalan Lobster) as well as seafood Paella.
Right near the centre of the island, you won’t find a lot of traditional seafood recipes, but you will find rustic recipes revolving around great cheeses and meats such as lamb, pork, and wild boar!
To check out 5 of my favourite Sardinian foods, check my post here…
5. The People
I have been living here for almost three years, and although I’ll never pass for a Sardinian, I’ve always been made to feel extremely welcome by the locals. In my opinion, Sardinians are some of the nicest people I’ve met anywhere on my travels.
Sardinians love tourists that make an effort, so if you plan to visit here, have a go at learning some basic phrases in Italian – it’ll go a long way!
Also, if you do finally break the ice and make Sardinian friends, never refuse a coffee or glass of beer or local wine!
Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to follow Viva La Dolce Vita on Facebook, and Instagram!
You are right on everything, but this time I want to comment about the people. We were walking around Castel Sardo. Houses there have windows opening up just at eye height of people passing by. On one balcony there was a plate with all sort of fruits, and an old man looking at the passersby. He saw us, a woman with her three kids, and spontaneously offered us all of the fruits. I still hear his voice, his accent, made of detached syllables, his kind insistence to have us accept the gift.
I hope to go there again one day, any place deserves to be seen.
Lovely story! It’s a very common occurrence in Sardinia – people are generally kind to the core!