Sardinia is the largest island in Italy and its beautiful beaches and scenic mountains make it a popular family holiday destination. The greatest attraction in Sardinia is the clear and colourful sea that laps the many bays, coves and coastlines, rivaling even that of the Caribbean in some places. The most famous place is the well named Costa Smeralda or Emerald Coast, whose main port, Porto Cervo, attracts the rich and the famous during the summer. There are a large number of resorts to choose from in Sardinia but all will offer a sandy beach nearby; safe clear water for swimming and snorkeling and local restaurants serving Italian dishes and local Sardinian specialties. Sardinia’s main towns, Cagliari, Alghero and Olbio all have interesting harbours, historic centres with a cathedral or two, impressive fortifications and as many cafes, restaurants and shops you could wish for. The rugged mountainous interior provides excellent opportunities for either a scenic day out or some excellent trekking. Check out our great selection of Child Friendly holidays in Sardinia below or read on for some tips on attractions and days out.
Top Tips for that extra special family holiday in Sardinia
- If you are near to Alghero, take a boat trip from the Marina to Neptune’s Grotto. This is a series of caves with stalactites and stalagmites all beautifully lit. The trip takes only an hour or so and the children will also enjoy chugging past the dramatic cliffs on the way. There is also a much cheaper option. You can take a bus to the top of the caves and walk down. Of course there is a snag: 654 steps down AND 654 steps back up. One way of keeping fit maybe.
- Children like steam trains and a real delight here is the ‘Little Green Train’ that is as child friendly as it sounds. It chugs twice a day between Arbatax and Mandas along the coast, past forests and lakes and into the mountains. It will take a bit of organizing as it is a full day trip. Children also like boat trips, and ferries are an inexpensive way to get onto the water. Combine a little history with the ferry trip from Palau to the pretty island of Caprera, where Italy’s most famous hero, Garibaldi, spent his last days. You can visit his house and there is a museum as well on the island.
- Take a coach trip or hire a car and head round the coast or up into the hills. If near the North of the island go to Capo D'Orso an enormous weathered rock in the shape of a great crouching bear looking out to sea. If near Barumini, pop in to see a miniature model of the whole island at ‘Sardegna In Miniatura’, which also has a play park for the younger children. If really adventurous head into the centre of island to the fascinating town of Nauro. Check with your hotel or local tourist office for the most interesting places to go which is outside the ‘Are we there yet’ range of the kids.
- If swimming at the pool or beach begins to bore the children, then take a visit to an Aqua Park or Aquarium. The Laguna di Nora Aquarium in Pula gives a close up look at Sardinian Sea Life in a natural setting. For water thrills try Aquadream in Baja or the Water Paradise fun park in Sorso.
- No holiday on the island of Sardinia would be complete without a trip to the nearest town, for a stroll down its main street to soak up the atmosphere and a spot of sightseeing and shopping. The three main ports, Cagliari, Alghero and Olbio all have interesting sights but if you want to see how the other half live, head for Porto Cervo for a look at the fabulous yachts in the Marina and their fabulous owners in the town.
Forte village is arguable the best family hotel in Sardinia. A large beachfront complex with excellent facilities for all ages
For an affordable family holiday to Sardinia, check out Baia Blu. Mobile homes combined with plenty of sports and entertainment
Thomson offer a great range of family holidays to Sardinia. Look out for their Free Kids places
