Northern Sardinia, like the whole island, is famous for its beaches and crystal-clear sea.
But along the coast there are also some charming villages, which can be visited all year round.
We suggest a lovely itinerary that takes in four villages in Northern Sardinia: Palau, La Maddalena, Castelsardo and Stintino.
Palau, A MUST-SEE STOP
Palau
is a famous tourist destination
overlooking the La Maddalena archipelago.
It’s a lovely village to stroll around, and if you fancy exploring, you’ll find some marvellous views
in the surrounding area.
The natural landscape of Palau is truly bountiful: the granite rocks
take on fairy-tale shapes, thanks to the wind that has sculpted them over the years.
Rural churches, lush countryside – there’s plenty to inspire those who love walking in unique places like this.
Our tips
The Bear Rock at Capo d’Orso
It is a splendid natural landmark
, from where you can admire a breathtaking panorama.
Myths and legends
It is said that Capo d’Orso may be ‘the land of the Laestrygonians’, whom Homer mentions in Book X of the Odyssey.
The Laestrygonians were the cannibal giants who gave their name to this land where Odysseus landed with his crew, whom they forced into a desperate flight.
The Fortress of Monte Altura
On the road linking Palau to the picturesque Porto Rafael, you’ll find the Monte Altura Fortress.
This imposing granite structure dates from the 19th century and was built to protect the military base at La Maddalena.
>One of the most important events in Palau takes place at the Monte Altura Fortress, bringing concerts featuring the finest avant-garde music and high-quality cultural productions to this beautiful venue: Isole che Parlano 
La Maddalena is the largest island, which gives its name to the entire archipelago of stunning little islands .
This is one of the most beautiful places in Northern Sardinia.
A stroll through the town centre
The village of La Maddalena
is truly charming: we recommend exploring the narrow streets of the town centre
, stopping in the squares and admiring the historic buildings.
Head down towards the sea and make your way to the harbour at Cala Gavetta
, perhaps to have a natter with the local fishermen.
The surrounding area
By car, bike or public transport, you can venture out for tens of kilometres in search of idyllic coves and breathtaking views.
If you make it as far as Caprera, do visit the beautiful museum dedicated to Giuseppe Garibaldi, where his house is located – the place where he spent the last 26 years of his life. You’ll get a real sense of an important part of Italian history. 
Castelsardo is an authentic medieval village perched high above the sea.
The village overlooks the stunning Gulf of Asinara and centres around the Doria Castle, built in 1102 by the noble Genoese family as their impregnable stronghold.
History and picture-postcard seaside scenery
Once past the ramparts that surround it, you find yourself amongst charming narrow streets and steep stairways, numerous churches and monuments of considerable historical interest, including the fascinating Museum of Mediterranean Weaving.
Castelsardo also boasts beautiful beaches with golden sand and crystal-clear water, nestled amongst uniquely shaped rocks.
Tips for curious travellers
- The Cathedral of Saint Anthony the Abbot, perched high above the sea and featuring a bell tower adorned with colourful majolica tiles
- The Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to remarkable treasures
- The Elephant Rock, a splendid natural sculpture
- Palazzo La Loggia, home to the old town hall
- The Basilica of Our Lady of Tergu, a fine example of Romanesque architecture.
Castelsardo provides the backdrop for the famous ‘Musica sulle Bocche’ festival
, one of the most important musical events in Sardegna. 
Stintino, A COASTAL VILLAGE
Stintino
is a charming fishing village
that lies almost on the edge of the island of Asinara
.
It was founded in 1885 by Ligurian fishermen
who had been living on Asinara and were ‘evicted’ from the island when the famous prison – considered the Italian Alcatraz – was established.
A fishing village
The history and culinary traditions of Stintino are closely linked to fishing
.
We recommend sampling some of the local specialities, such as potato and lobster soup
or the excellent Stintino-style octopus, in
the restaurants lining the village’s characteristic narrow streets. Nature’s masterpieces The area boasts some wonderful spots. Here are 5 unmissable stops in Stintino:
- La Pelosa Beach, considered one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world
- Asinara Island, home to white donkeys and unspoilt nature
- Casaraccio Marsh, a birdwatcher’s paradise
- The Tonnara Museum, where you can discover the past.
Among the events in Stintino, we recommend the captivating Feast of the Blessed Virgin of Defence 
