Alghero - Northern Sardinia holidays

Its long sandy beach backed by pine trees, Alghero combines medieval old town charm with all the attractions of a stylish seaside resort. Al fresco bars and restaurants and boutiques sit happily between Alghero’s seven defence towers, its Gothic cathedral and a host of palazzi and churches. On the waterfront is a working fishing fleet, a marina and boat trips (Neptune’s Cave is recommended). Water sports include diving along the Coral Riviera.

The eponymous “Sardinian Castle” is perched high on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea with panoramic views to the islands of Asinara and Corsica. Its medieval old town of pastel-painted houses with flaking stucco walls winds down to a long golden beach. From here there are excursions and diving trips. After-dark activities are limited to a few bars and trattorias.

Set on a low lying peninsular and named after the small, pink granite islet just off shore, this former fishing village is evolving into a low-key tourist resort. The village is surrounded by picturesque rocky coves, ideal for snorkelling and diving, and three soft golden sandy beaches. It boasts a marina, low-rise hotels and a handful of trattorias and bars.

Sardinia’s second largest city, Sassari’s monumental piazza belies its workaday nature, most apparent in the characterful narrow winding alleyways of its walled old town. Two unusual museums that repay a visit are the GA Sanna Museum, for its inuraghi/i (Bronze Age stone towers which dot the island), and the Museum of the Sassari Brigade which deals with the First World War. Good beaches nearby are Alghero and La Pelosa.