Traditional and Familiar
Alghero is a sleepy little town on the western coast of Sardinia in the province of Sassari. Roughly 40,000 locals accommodate tourists from all over Europe who enjoy the familial atmosphere, genuine Sardinian tradition, and delicious Mediterranean food.
There are many advantages to spending your vacation in a small place like Alghero. Despite its size it has a great number of cultural and historical sights and the locals are especially welcoming and open to visitors. Away from mass tourism the beaches are clean and quiet and the cultural experience more authentic than in the big holiday resorts on the east coast.
The Hot Spot
Life in Alghero revolves around the harbour and the beach promenade where the latest gossip is exchanged, football matches are watched, and wine is consumed in one of the numerous family-run tavernas. Before spending and evening debating life with the locals have a look around the magnificent Old Town which resembles a 17th century painting of an Italian fishing village. The main landmark is San Maria Cathedral, built during the 16th century. Other points of interest include the gothic San Francesco church and the old defensive wall of which remains have been preserved.
Picnic Spots, Sandy Beaches and Hiking Trails
After having explored the town there is much to be seen in the surrounding countryside. Explore the small country roads in your hired car. Whether it be along the coast or inland, the roads are ruly scenic and olive groves and small streams make for perfect picnic spots.
North of Alghero you can visit the sandy beaches of Sant Joan as well as Sagno Calich salt lake which has fostered a unique vegetation of pine forests and colourful bushes.
To the south-west, passing the small commune of Villanova Monteleone you will get to the Lago di Temo, a hill-framed water reservoir where you can rent a bike or hit one of the hiking trails.
The provincial capital of Sassari City is also within close reach by a hired car and offers a splendid cultural programme.
