The Italian island of Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean with over 1,500 miles of coastline and located about five hours west by ferry from the mainland of Italy.

The three main Sardinia airports to fly to from the UK are Olbia in the north east, Alghero in the north west and Cagliari in the south, with flight durations from 2 hours 30 minutes.

Costa Smeralda or the Emerald Coast is in the north east; a world famous holiday destination. Particularly well known are the areas of Porto Rotondo with its yacht fringed harbour, and the seaside resort of Porto Cervo. Dramatic granite mountains drop down to small beaches and promontories, with manmade bathing platforms perfect for a dip in the cool azure sea. When on holiday in Sardinia, a boat trip to the Tavolara Island Marine Reserves and National Park Maddalena’s Archipelago, should be top of your list. There are many good beach resorts on the north coast of Sardinia including Badesi, Valledoria and Isola Rossa.  A quieter resort about 90 miles from Olbia is Cala Gonone, with is peaceful beaches and the caves of Blue Marino.

The north west coast of Sardinia is home to many pretty and popular seaside resorts, and a dramatic coastline which includes fantastic sandy beaches and scenic jagged cliffs.  Historic Alghero with its cobbled lanes and fortified walls oozes charm, but if you’re looking for popular seaside fun and sweeping beaches too, you won’t have far to travel (Maria Pia beach). Alghero is the ideal base from which to explore the north east during your Sardinia holidays with a good choice of hotels and self catering accommodation, many fine restaurants and pizzerias, and a selection of stores. Do visit the provincial capital of Sassari with its boulevards leading to sun soaked squares and huge number of shops, and 12th Century cliff top Castelsardo with its narrow steep paths leading to spectacular views of the Mediterranean.

In southern Sardinia, Cagliari is the island’s capital. Overlooked by mountain ranges, the southern beaches are stunning and lapped by clear azure waters, perfect for many lazy days in the sun.  A busy port town, vibrant Cagliari is dominated by its castle and surrounded by the medieval walls.  An area popular with hikers and bird watchers is Pula with the salt hills and Sulcis mountain range, although its long sandy beach draws in the majority of visitors. The town comes alive at night with its open air cafes and restaurants and late opening shops. For beaches, head to Nora Beach near Pula, and if staying at the Forte Village, St Margherita. One of the best beaches in Europe is Chia with its sand dunes and plenty of refreshments. Take out a kayak, swim or surf but head to Molentes beach and snorkelling is the preferred sport.