Scenic Sardinia & Corsica's Coast
- 8 Days
- From : Olbia
- To : Olbia
- Tour
- Guide : English
- Minimum age : 16 Years Old
* This product requests separate payment. Promotion code or coupon from Ticket Here is not applicable.
Join this eight-day TUI Tour to unveil the island of Sardinia, Italy and the coast of Corsica, France. An awe-inspiring experience to discover Italian landscapes, cuisine, wines and history. Wander around Baia Sardinia and Porto Cervo resorts and feast with a dinner in a local agriturismo. Learn about Alghero’s history and taste sparkling white wine and Sardinian delights. Sail to Corsica and visit Bonifacio, without a doubt the most spectacular town on the island with a mix of authenticity and French chic. Immerse yourself into an archaeological journey through Coddu Vecchiu and Nuraghe La Prisgiona’s sites. Visit the Cork Museum at the small town of Calangianus and wander around Tempio, before ending with a locally produced wine tasting.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Costa Smeralda: located on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia, between the Gulfs of Arzachena and Cugnana. Famous for its turquoise water and fine-sand beaches, in this portion of the coast are located ones of the most beautiful beaches of Sardinia.
Corsica, France: Set sail for French soil on a visit to the stunning island of Corsica. Luxurious yachts are moored in the vibrant harbour. The citadel is characterised by the different people who have ruled the city. It offers a wonderful combination of French, Corsican and Italian culture.
Alghero: known as “Barcelonetta”, Alghero is Sardinia’s Spanish jewel. The charming old town was fortified by the Catalans and the Spanish who occupied this corner of Sardinia for 400 years and left a strong impression, Catalan is still spoken here today.
Tempio: sitting under Monte Limbara, Tempio has a very authentic historic centre built entirely in grey granite rock giving it an austere appearance. The cobbled streets of the centre are full of life in the mornings with artisan boutiques and shops selling local produce.
What’s included?
TOUR GUIDE:
- Operated with English-speaking TUI tour-escort throughout the itinerary
ACCOMMODATION:
- 7 nights’ accommodation
MEALS:
- 7 Breakfasts
- 4 Dinners at the hotel (Day 1, 3, 4, 7)
- 1 Dinner in a traditional farm restaurant (Day 2)
TRANSPORT:
- Arrival and departure shared transfer in an air-conditioning bus from/to Olbia Airport
- Shared transportation in an air-conditioning bus throughout the tour
- Return Ferry ticket St. Teresa di Gallura – Bonifacio
- Return tourist train up to the old town in Bonifacio
ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary: Coddu Vecchiu and Nuraghe La Prisgiona Archaeological Sites visit, Baia Sardinia tour, Porto Cervo tour (Day 2); Day Trip to Corsica, Photo Stop at Roccia dell’ Elefante (Day 4); Alghero Walking Tour, including Aperitif (Day 6); Calangianus Cork Museum, Tempio Walking Tour, Wine tasting in Tempio (Day 7)
OTHER:
- Meet & Greet
Exclusions
- Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise)
- Domestic nor international flights
- City tax not included, payable on the spot
- Any visit not mentioned in the program
- Porterage and gratuities
- Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program
- Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any)
- Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
Please note
- We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
- Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
- No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 – 3 Costa Smeralda:
- Superior Hotel Category = Colonna du Golf or similar 4*
Day 4 – 6 Porto Conte:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Corte Rosada (Adults Only) or similar 4*
Day 7 Tempio Pausania:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Pausania Inn or similar 3*
Cancellation policy
- Once ordered, this tour cannot be cancelled or refund or amended at any circumstances.
Day 1 : ARRIVAL OLBIA – COSTA SMERALDA (16km – 30min)
Upon landing at Olbia Airport, make your way to the arrivals hall, where a representative will meet you. You will then be transferred to the hotel, where you can settle in before spending the rest of this first day at leisure. In the evening, wrap the day up with dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Costa Smeralda.
Day 2 : COSTA SMERALDA – ARZACHENA – BAIA SARDINIA – PORTO CERVO – COSTA SMERALDA (60km – 1.5hr)
Wake up to breakfast at the hotel, before morning departure for a full-day tour. After a short drive into the countryside outside Arzachena there are two of the unique archaeological sites, found only in Sardinia. Here you will visit the giant tomb of Coddu Vecchiu and Nuraghe La Prisgiona. A guided tour of both sites will give you a great insight into the history to kick-start the tour. You then head to the laidback seaside resort of Baia Sardinia. Built around a beautiful white sandy bay with turquoise waters makes it a perfect place for a light lunch, or even a dip in the sea (own expense). On the way back, you will make a stop at the chic resort of Porto Cervo, the hub of the Costa Smeralda. This millionaire’s playground is a popular holiday destination for the glitterati, where luxury yachts dock in the summer. The puzzle of the piazza is packed with designer boutiques and swish bars and restaurants. After some time to relax at the hotel, we head out for a typical Sardinian dinner in a local agriturismo (included). With most of the menu being organically produced onsite, you are guaranteed a delicious feast. Local cheeses, cold meats, homemade pasta and the local speciality of Zuppa Gallurese are on the menu. Followed by roast suckling pig served with fresh vegetables of the season. Local wines and liqueurs accompany all this with some typical Sardinian biscuits to end the delicious feast.
Overnight in Costa Smeralda.
Day 3 : COSTA SMERALDA
In the morning, charge your batteries with breakfast at the hotel. This day is at your own leisure. Alternatively, you can book an optional excursion to the Archipelago of the Maddalena (not included). In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel.
La Maddalena Islands full-day tour (2 pax minimum)
Just off the north coast of Sardinia is the archipelago of the La Maddalena, a group of ten islands whose beaches and waters are comparable to those of the Caribbean. The area is a protected natural marine park with crystal clear waters. Leaving from Cannigione, you will cruise the coast and pass the islands of Caprera and Santo Stefano before taking a short stop at the main island of La Maddalena. Here you can visit the small quaint town, have a quick look around the boutiques and enjoy a cappuccino in one of the piazzas. Back on board the boat, we continue to Santa Maria to break at the beach for approximately an hour to swim in the crystal-clear waters and explore nature. At lunchtime, a plate of pasta is served on board by the friendly crew. In the afternoon we stop at Spargi the most stunning island where you can admire the spectacular sculptured rock formations known as the witch, the dog and the boot. Here you will have another opportunity for a swim. As we sail back to the mainland we pass Porto Rafael and Capo D’ Orso. Please note that itineraries may change without notice at the captain’s discretion due to weather conditions and for the safety of passengers. It is advisable to bring a sunhat, high factor sunscreen and a light jacket (it can suddenly become very windy) in addition to swimsuits, towels, camera and any additional drinks and snacks for the day. Not included: embarkation tax, return transfers to the port.
Overnight in Costa Smeralda.
Day 4 : COSTA ESMERALDA – PORT ST. TERESA GALLURA (60km – 1hr) – CORSICA, FRANCE (1.5hr by ferry) – PORTO CONTE (140km – 2.5 hr)
Early morning, have breakfast at the hotel before departing at around 08:30 am for a full-day trip to Corsica, France. A pleasant journey across the Straits of Bonifacio takes you to Sardinia’s nearest neighbour, very similar in the landscape but offering a completely different culture and architecture. On the approach, you take in the amazing sight of the old town perched on the cliffs, with its houses just 70m above the sea. Arrival into the fjord style harbour of Bonifacio, the views of the craggy white cliffs with the old citadel perched on the edge is truly breathtaking. A little train will take you to the heart of Bonifacio (included). Your tour escort will give you a good background of the historical centre before leaving you to explore at your leisure. There is plenty of time to meander through the cobbled streets and squares, time for shopping and the chance try one of the many superb eateries (own expense). On arriving back in Sardinia, you will take the road along the west coast to The Coral Riviera and the Catalan town of Alghero. A few kilometres outside the town of Castelsardo you will make a photo stop at the Roccia d’elefante, one of the famous rock formations shaped like an elephant. In the evening, finish the day with dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Porto Conte.
Day 5 : PORTO CONTE
In the morning, charge your batteries with breakfast at the hotel. This day is at your own leisure. Alternatively, you can book optional excursions (not included). In the evening, dinner will be at leisure.
Sardinian Local Favourites, full-day (2 pax minimum)
You’ll get a real taste of the Sardinian countryside and its culture on this excursion. Try local wine in Bosa, visit the Nuraghe Sant’ Antine megalithic monument and sample hand-made cheese and typical snacks at the traditional farm of Sas Abbilas. This is one of our TUI Collection excursions, which give you a local flavour of the destination while showcasing its unique, authentic and responsible values. The adventure kicks off with a rugged coastal drive to Bosa. Clusters of coloured houses dot the hillside of this fishing village. Walk along cobbled streets of stone houses and see women making traditional Bosa lace in their homes and stop for a taste of the local Malvasia wine. Next, journey back in time at the Nuraghe Sant’ Antine archaeological site, which dates from 1600 BC. You’ll discover one of these uniquely Sardinian megalithic era stone dwellings. Afterwards, head to Sas Abbilas – a tucked-away farm overlooking the Santa Lucia River. Here, you’ll round off by watching traditional cheese-making and enjoying a few typical snacks. Not included: Lunch.
Country & Coast by 4×4, half-day (2 pax minimum)
An adventure from the countryside to coast by 4×4. This personalized tour is perfect for nature lovers. Your driver-guides are experts in their field and will share their local knowledge of flora and fauna whilst taking you off-road. Take in the aromas of the Sardinian herbs and shrubs, the breath-taking views and admire the spectacular birdlife. During the afternoon you’ll also learn about the ancient history on a visit to see a few unique Sardinian archaeological sites. The tour finishes on the beach at sundown with an aperitif of local produce. Videos and photos will be taken which you can access later, so you’ll have a souvenir to take home. From 03:00 pm to 07:30 pm. Pick-up and drop off directly from your hotel.
Overnight in Porto Conte.
Day 6 : PORTO CONTE – ALGHERO (30km –40min)
Have breakfast at the hotel before departing at around 09:30 am to Alghero. Get an insight into this historic citadel on this informative walking tour. Your guide will give a rundown on the history of the town visiting the cathedral of Santa Maria and pointing out the main places of interest whilst introducing you to some of the local produce and traditions. You will have some free time to explore the sights further or do some shopping. There is an array of places to eat al fresco and enjoy the views. At the end of the tour, we stop at a local restaurant with views over the port for an aperitif of local prosecco (included). The Akenta wine is produced in Alghero and has a story which the guide will explain. Walking around the centre the guide will point out photos of the centenarians which are displayed throughout the citadel to promote the fact that Sardinia has a higher life expectancy than anywhere else in the world and was declared the first Blue Zone in the world. In the evening, dinner will be at leisure. Alternatively, you can book optional excursions (not included):
Boat trip to The Neptune Caves, excursion (2 pax minimum)
Cruise along the shores of Alghero passing the beaches of Maria Pia, Lazzaretto and Le Bombarde towards the headland of Capo Caccia to the entrance of the Neptune Caves. These caves are amongst the most famous in Europe, the largest marine caves in Italy. They have formed over 2 million years ago and were discovered by a local fisherman in the 18th Century. Today you can explore the different rooms with their amazing stalagmites and stalactites and a huge underground lake. From 02:45 pm to 05:15 pm. Included: cruise / Not included: transfers to/from the port; entrance to The Neptune Caves, payable locally.
In Search of Dolphins, half-day (2 pax minimum)
The coasts of Sardinia are populated with dolphins and the natural marine area of Porto Conte is where many of them choose to live. What better way to learn about these fascinating mammals than with the experts. Gabriella is a highly qualified marine biologist and every trip is part of a research project into dolphin conservation. Thanks to photo identity all the profiles of the dolphins are registered so you actually know who you are looking at. The boat Aria is adapted to cause minimal disturbance meaning it is dolphin friendly and has high tech equipment on board to give a unique multisensory experience. Besides learning about the dolphins, the crew will take you on a guided you snorkel, down to the seabed to explore the other marine life and fauna (from June – Sep). Masks, snorkels and fins are provided, and videos and photos will be taken which you can access later for a memorable underwater encounter. As you head back to shore a light snack of local products, wine and water will be served on board. With a maximum of 12 people on board the young enthusiastic crew are on hand to answer any questions. The only boat excursion in Alghero where you can learn about the local marine life whilst being an ecotourist. From 02:15 pm to 06:00 pm. Included: guide / Not Included: transfers from/to the port.
Overnight in Porto Conte.
Day 7 : PORTO CONTE – CALANGIANUS – TEMPIO PAUSANIA (130km – 2hr)
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and then depart to your next destination at around 09:00 am. Today you will go northwards, passing Sassari to the inland area called the Gallura. The area is rich in vineyards and cork forests and you will make the first stop at the small town of Calangianus, Italy’s main producer of cork. Visit the cork museum where you will discover the different stages of extraction and the uses of the cork. Shortly afterwards, you will continue to the main town of Tempio, once the provincial town in the area before the rise of tourism on the coast. Your tour guide will give you the option of a walking tour. After free time for lunch, you will check in to the family hotel just outside the town where you will have the rest of the afternoon at leisure. This evening you will stay in the hotel for a dinner of typical dishes from the area. Before dinner, you will have a wine tasting of the wines produced by the family, owners of the hotel who have a small vineyard in the grounds of the property.
Overnight in Tempio Pausania.
Day 8 : TEMPIO PAUSANIA – DEPARTURE OLBIA (50km – 1hr)
After one last breakfast at your hotel, bid farewell to Sardinia as you hop onto a comfortable transfer to Olbia Airport, where you will catch your flight to your following destination. We hope the memories of this trip will stay with you for a lifetime.