Sardinia
Sardinia is not quite Italy, and the Sardinians will tell you so themselves.
Region Profile
Landscape
An island of dramatic variety. Hundreds of miles of coastline with some of the Mediterranean's clearest water and best beaches, ringing a rugged, mountainous, sparsely populated interior of stone villages, shepherds' country, and Bronze Age nuraghi towers.
General Vibe
Proud, ancient, and apart. Sardinia has its own language and a fierce island identity, calmer and less hurried than the mainland. Coastal towns are relaxed and outdoorsy, inland villages deeply traditional. One of the world's blue zones, built around long, unhurried lives.
Weather
Classic Mediterranean, among the sunniest in Italy. Hot dry summers cooled by sea breezes, and mild winters on the coast, though windy. The famous mistral and other winds shape the island. Long warm shoulder seasons make spring and autumn ideal.
Affordability
Cheaper than the mainland for daily life, with Cagliari and inland towns offering better value. The exception is the coast in summer, where the Costa Smeralda and resort areas turn expensive. Inland stone houses can be remarkably cheap.
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