Bosa Resort - south of Alghero

February 24, 2009

Bosa is the relaxed resort to the south of Alghero.  It is the only town on the western stretch of coast in Sardinia so makes it well worth a visit.

Bosa was built 5 kilomtetres inland from the River Temo.  It is surrounded by mountains and sea, making it protected from any form of tourist development.  This has provided the resort with a relaxed atmosphere.  If you are staying in Alghero, then pop into your hire car and have a look around this resort.

The main attraction of Bosa is the hilltop remains of a medieval fortress called Castello Malaspina.  It was built by the Malaspina family in 1112.  However, nowadays all that remains of the fortress are the exterior walls and towers.  There is a gem here though in Bosa – the church called Nostra Signora di Regnos Altos.  It also contains some wonderful examples of Catalan art well worth a look.

There is a cathedral just south of here.  The cathedral was built in the fifteenth century although more recent developments were untaken during the Baroque period. 

The Bosa Marina is situated at the mouth of the River Temo.  There are beautiful sandy beaches here with a small number of restaurants, bars and hotels.   As previously said, well worth a visit if you jump in your hire car and take the trip from Alghero to Bosa.

The Island Of Sardinia: Beyond Costa Smeralda

February 7, 2009

Every summer, the north east of Sardinia fills up with an interesting host of characters - millionaires, celebrities and those trying to get a whiff of that action.  Costa Smeralda, of course, is the decidedly luxurious destination for the extravagant lot.  While it’s no longer as exclusive as it was many years ago, it continues to be the place to watch the moneyed glitterati hang out in their multimillion dollar yachts strewn across the sea.

Sardinia does have more going for it than a high-profile beach scene, though.  For instance, one of the most important archaeological sites of the Mediterranean, the Anghelu Ruju, sits in the Sassari region of the island.  Other notable attractions include beautiful vineyards, ancient Roman ruins and breathtaking scenery scattered all over its four main regions.

There’s also beach action beyond the expensive trappings of Costa Smeralda.  A mere 45 minutes away via car hire from the popular destination is Golfo Aranchi and its series of unspoiled beaches with plenty of marine life and other adventures to offer.  Cagliari also boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the island, including the turquoise waters that run through Poetto and Callamosca.  Even Olbia, the hub of people on their way to Costa Smeralda, has its own slice of gorgeous beach life in Pittulongu.

Alghero Nightlife

February 7, 2009

Alghero is a beautiful city surrounded by ancient walls amidst seven historic towers.  By day, this is a sight to behold.  At night, they provide the perfect backdrop to an evening of merrymaking and joyous festivity.

Despite the large amount of tourists passing through its streets, the city retains an undeniable small town charm.  Take a stroll through the web of narrow roads, stopping by among the bars and restaurants spilling out into the cobbled streets.

If you want to feel the ocean’s calming breeze, hit the bars along the waterfront and the beach.  Be there during sunset and take in the wonderful view while sipping on a cocktail of your picking.  Watch the fiery orange sky across the horizon or soak in the sight of the building walls reflecting colours of apricot and peach.

Take an outdoor table at one of the restaurants and enjoy Alghero’s seafood bounty.  Order the local rock lobster specialty, have some fresh fish or summon a plate of Malloreddus, Sardinia’s local pasta dish.  Top it off with a honey recipe for dessert and a sip of local wine.

The night ends early in Alghero, though, with most bars closing on or before 2 AM.  In the summer, you can head out to the ramparts, where nightlife bustles till dawn.