Sardinia

Overview:

Until recently, Sardinia was Italy’s forgotten island, the farthest from the mainland with a rocky, arid interior covered with grazing sheep. Its Caribbean-blue waters, hidden coves, and isolated white beaches have attracted the sailing and yachting set who all converge in the summer months on the northern Emerald Coast. The rest of the year the island is a haven for explorers discovering it’s fascinating ancient history, dating back to 300 B.C. Over 7,000 ancient nuraghes (stone structures built for defense as far back as the 9th century B.C. up to the Roman period) are scattered about the entire island in various states of preservation. A vast variety of traditional festivals occur throughout the year where Sardinians, mostly dressed in traditional costumes, express their identity. These festivals are the best way to really come to understand their unique culture. The region also includes the picturesque islands of Sant’Antioco, San Pietro, La Maddalena, Caprera, and Asinara. Gastronomic specialties: A wide variety of good wines are made in Sardinia, especially sweet wines (Vernaccia). Recipes that are based either on lamb and wild boar or seafood specialties, including octopus, are popular.