Alghero remains one of Sardinia's most beautiful medieval cities, with its perfectly preserved centro storico enclosed by yellow ochre seawalls and lined with cobbled lanes, Gothic palaces and inviting piazzas. Enjoy a drink or a meal as you gaze at the yachts bobbing away in the marina or head out along the long drifts of sandy beach that stretch out towards the horizon. The Spanish influence remains strong in northern Sardinia and here Catalan is still widely spoken which simply adds to the historic charms of the resort.
Areas & Neighborhoods in and Around Alghero
Alghero - The main drawing card of Alghero is its historic centre which will reward a leisurely tour. The town still retains its unique character that will enchant and it offers many excellent restaurants and bars to help cast its spell a little deeper.
Riviera del Corallo - In many ways Alghero is the ideal location from which to explore the sweeping beaches and breathtaking beauty spots that lie just north of the town. The Riviera del Corallo sweeps scenically off to the northwest and ends dramatically at the rocky headland of Capo Caccia, which contains a thrilling cave complex known as the Grotta di Nettuno.
Orgosolo - Within reach of Alghero - and available as a day tour - is the opportunity to experience the culture and lifestyle of Sardinia at its best in the artistic village of Orgosolo that lies amidst picturesque landscapes. Here you can appreciate the incredible murals that dot the village walls.
Mamoiada - Also in striking distance of Alghero is charming Mamoiada where a fascinating museum documents the history of carnival masks.
Things to See in and Around Alghero
The obvious sight is the coastline with its impeccable sandy beaches fringed by towering cliffs that contain plenty of hidden rocky coves to explore. This natural beauty is complemented by the delightful historic centre of Alghero, which is largely car-free and so ideal for exploring leisurely on foot. Make sure you make a stop at the Palazzo d’Albis and, of course, wherever else catches your eye. If you can tear yourself away from the coast and the charms of Alghero, inland you will find many other architectural and archaeological sights that include numerous evocative Pisan-Romanesque churches, the necropolis of Anghelu Ruju and prehistoric ruins.
Things to Do in and Around Alghero
Alghero is very much a place to ‘be’ rather than do. Its delights lie in its restaurant-lined piazzas and the view from them of the yachts bobbing in the marina. However, a trip out to Neptune's Grotto, located at Capo Caccia, is a must. A tour of this cave will leave you breathless - and not just from the walk down to it. The artistic delights and museums of Orgoso and Mamoiada merit an excursion and the adventure-seekers will not have to look too hard to find opportunities for trekking, scuba diving, mountain biking, climbing and bird watching nearby.
