many boats anchored in a bay in Sardinia

Sardinia sailing guide

Majestic beauty: rugged coasts to picturesque villages

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7 days Sardinia and Corsica Sailing Route

This is a 7-day sailing trip starting from Portisco, Sardinia, meant for people who love exploring and have an adventurous spirit.

About Sardinia

Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, after Sicily.

Visitors are drawn to Sardinia for its stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and ancient archaeological sites. The island boasts a varied landscape that includes sandy beaches, rocky coastlines, and mountainous regions.
The coastline is dotted with beautiful coves, bays, and inlets, making it a popular destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. Sardinia has a distinct cultural identity, and the Sardinian language (Sardu) is recognized as a co-official language alongside Italian.

Sardinian cuisine is known for its simple yet flavorful dishes, with local specialties including pane carasau (crispy flatbread), culurgiones (stuffed pasta), and proceeds (roast suckling pig). Pecorino cheese, a local delicacy, is also highly regarded.

Sardinia boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, such as Cala Goloritzè, Cala Luna, Spiaggia Rosa, and La Pelosa. The island has several national parks and protected areas, including the Gennargentu National Park, which encompasses the Gennargentu Massif. This park is known for its rugged landscapes, wildlife, and hiking trails.

 

Sailing conditions around Sardinia

Sardinia is a popular destination for sailors and boating enthusiasts due to its excellent sailing conditions. The island’s diverse coastline, clear waters, and reliable winds make for an enjoyable sailing experience. The prevailing winds in the Sardinia area are the Mistral and the Sirocco. The Mistral, a northwesterly wind, is frequent during summer and provides favorable sailing conditions. The Sirocco, a southeasterly wind, is less predictable. During summer, thermal winds often develop in the afternoon.

Sailing around Sardinia offers breathtaking views of the island’s natural beauty, including the rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and mountainous landscapes. Sardinia has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The sailing season typically extends from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is more predictable, and the sea conditions are generally calm.

many boats anchored in a bay in Sardinia

Best mooring locations around Sardinia

Sardinia boasts a range of stunning mooring locations, from buzzing ports to picturesque anchorages surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. One such location is Porto Cervo, situated in the Costa Smeralda region of northeastern Sardinia. The marina is renowned for its luxurious offerings and attracts upscale yachts. It also offers a vibrant atmosphere with high-end shops, restaurants, and lively nightlife.

Another charming marina is located in Porto Rotondo, in northeastern Sardinia. It is famous for its picturesque setting and well-equipped facilities, along with a mix of traditional architecture, boutiques, and waterfront restaurants.

Moving towards southern Sardinia, the capital city of Cagliari offers a well-equipped marina and cultural attractions, historical sites, and a lively waterfront. Poetto Beach is also located nearby, offering a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the city.

Why is Sardinia a popular sailing destination?

Sardinia is an immensely popular sailing destination that attracts boating enthusiasts from around the world for a variety of reasons. The island offers an exquisite coastline that is diverse and visually stunning, with clear turquoise waters, unspoiled beaches, and dramatic cliffs. The variety of landscapes, from sandy shores to rugged terrain, provides a captivating experience for sailors.

Sardinia benefits from reliable wind conditions, especially during the summer months. The Mistral, a northwesterly wind, and thermal winds contribute to favorable sailing conditions, making it an ideal destination for both experienced sailors and those new to the sport. Sardinia has a well-developed infrastructure of marinas and anchorages, providing a range of facilities and services for visiting sailors. From luxurious marinas in upscale resorts to more rustic anchorages in natural settings, there are options to suit various preferences.

Where to eat and drink in Sardinia?

When it comes to food in Sardinia, there are several recommendations worth noting. Agritourism farmhouses are an excellent option for those looking to enjoy locally produced ingredients and authentic Sardinian cuisine in a rustic and charming setting. Two highly recommended Agriturismo farms are Sa Mandra in Alghero and Petrera Rossa in Dorgali. Sardinia has a long-standing tradition of pizza-making, and there are several excellent pizzerias to choose from, offering both traditional and creative toppings.

If you’re in Cagliari, Pizzeria da Comida is an excellent choice, while Il Pomodoro is highly recommended if you’re in Olbia. Pecorino cheese is one of the most famous products of Sardinia, and visiting a local cheese farm is a must-do activity. You’ll have the opportunity to taste and purchase freshly made cheese at Caseificio Montis in Dorgali and Caseificio Pranu Muttedu in Sorgono.

Wine culture is also growing in Sardinia, and wine bars are an excellent place to enjoy local wines, often served with traditional snacks. Enoteca Nulvi in Nulvi and Sa Muvara in Orgosolo are two highly recommended wine bars to visit.

FAQ

Sardinia boasts an array of stunning beaches, with favorites including Spiaggia della Pelosa in Stintino, renowned for its crystalline waters and fine sands, and Cala Goloritzé, offering a picturesque cove surrounded by dramatic cliffs, making them among the top choices for beachgoers seeking natural beauty and tranquility.

The best time to visit Sardinia is from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is pleasantly warm, perfect for beach activities and exploring the island’s attractions. However, late spring and early autumn tend to be less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience amidst the beautiful landscapes.

Among Sardinia’s must-see attractions are the ancient ruins of Nora and Tharros, showcasing the island’s rich history, while the stunning natural beauty of the Gola su Gorropu gorge and the scenic archipelago of La Maddalena entice visitors with their unique landscapes and picturesque settings.