Day Trips
Grotta Di Nettuno...
One of the most popular excursions from Alghero is Grotta Di Nettuno
oe Neptune's Grotto. This is a spectacular series of connected sea caves
located underneath the Cappo Caccia headland. Reached either by car (and
an impressive set of 656 steps) or by boat trip from the port.
Nuraghe
Di Palmavera...
The archaeological site of Nuraghe di Palmavera is
the most important Nuraghic excavation in the Nuoro region of Sardinia.
Situated some 10km from Alghero, the centre of the site is dominated by
the ruins of a palace and this is surrounded by the remains of fifty
circular dwellings.
Anghelu Ruju...
This is the oldest prehistoric site near Alghero and
dates back to the Ozieri Culture of the late Neolithic (3300BC). The excavations can be found just outside the airport at Fertilia and consist of a necropolis made up of thirty seven burial tombs.
A convenient end of Holiday excursion.
Alghero Introduction
Alghero is one of the most popular resorts on Sardinia, yet retains the charm and atmosphere of a working fishing village. It manages to cater for all tastes, with cultural sites and plenty of amenities.
It is less glitzy than the busy Costa Smeralda on the north east coast of the island, but has plenty to offer those wanting sun, sand and sea - with clean beaches, and a lively clutch of bars and restaurants.
The medieval old town is the most picturesque on Sardinia, and has a fascinating Catalan heritage: a legacy of centuries of Aragon rule. Street signs are in both Italian and Catalan, and much of the architecture
is distinctly Spanish. There are plenty of things to see and do within a short distance of Alghero, and it offers a stylish base for exploring the rest of Sardinia.
Who goes there
British package tour operators have included Alghero in their brochures for some years, but it has escaped the ‘fish, chips and lager' commercialisation that has plagued other resorts. Budget airlines now offer direct flights from the UK, so many visitors are still British - frequently couples seeking romantic or relaxing holidays. It is also a popular destination with holidaying Italians. Alghero is an excellent winter destination, as it is a working fishing port, so still functions out of season.
Where in the world ?
Alghero is on the northwest coast of the Italian island of Sardinia, which lies immediately south of Corsica. The resort is 12.8km (8 miles) from Alghero airport, and 172km (107 miles) from the island's capital,
Cagliari, in the south.
The 1,000-year-old port sits on a headland, the old town surrounded by a thick medieval wall. Sandy beaches stretch north from the village, while the road south offers dramatic cliff-top views of the sea.
Beyond the Beach
Stroll around the old town, which the medieval Catalans named Barcelonetta, or Little Barcelona. The most striking building is the cathedral (Piazza Duomo), which was built in the 16th-century in Catalan-Gothic style.
A boat trip along the coast offers the chance to see the spectacular caves at Capo Caccia, known as Grotta di Nettuno - or Neptune's Caves. This limestone cave system, hidden beneath a sheer cliff face,
has jagged stalactites and stalagmites and a deep, clear lake. The round trip lasts around three hours. Diving enthusiasts can make for Porto Conte, which has equipment hire and runs diving excursions.
Family Fun
Alghero is a resort that offers a relaxing, traditional family holiday. The beaches are unspoilt, there are plenty of family friendly restaurants, and children should enjoy the boat trip to the Grotta di Nettuno. There are also plenty of opportunities for family walks and cycle rides in the unspoilt countryside that lies inland.