The beaches from Sardinia’s north east coast are known all over the world, but this isn’t the only thing that the island has to offer. There are many other things to do in Olbia and a rented car and a map is all you need to visit them.
Olbia was founded by the greeks in ancient times and it’s a major entry point for people using ferries and cruise lines. People generally arrive via ferry from Naples or Civitavecchia. Olbia is a city that has many signs of its ancient past and the different civilizations that occupied the island. For example, you will find signs of Roman baths and of a necropolis of Punic origins. Some other small architectural wonders are the 17th century San Paolo Church and the Church of San Simplicio, which was built in the 12th century and it’s made out of granite.
Driving to the South of the island you will find Nuoro, which is a real Sardinian village. It’s traditional and located on Monte Ortobene. It managed to keep its authenticity by avoiding foreign invasions. You can get a clue about their customs if you go to the Life and Tradition museum, where you will find textiles, jewels and weapons, plus you will be able to learn more about their music, folklore and festivals. In the vicinity, you will find the museum of National Archaeology, where you can see items starting from the Neolithic to the Dark Ages.
In the area you will also find mountain ranges, with trails you can walk on and enjoy great landscapes with wildlife like wild boars, eagles and buzzards.
Smeralda Coast is the best attraction in the area, loved by many famous and rich people, so many yachts can be seen in the area. Porto Cervo is the place they usually visit, and you can reach it by driving north from the town of Olbia.
Photo credit: Toprural on Flickr