Description
Sardinia and Corsica Tour Odyssey
A Voyage of History, Natural Beauty, and Gastronomic Wonders”
9 days -8 Nights
Introduction
Benvenuti to the “Sardinia and Corsica Odyssey: A Voyage of History, Natural Beauty, and Gastronomic Wonders.” This 9-day excential tour invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey through two captivating Mediterranean islands, Sardinia and Corsica.
Prepare to be enchanted by the rich tapestry of history, the breathtaking landscapes, and the culinary delights these islands have to offer. From the ancient streets of Cagliari to the charming villages of Corsica, this tour promises an immersive experience that combines cultural exploration with the pleasures of the palate.
Join us as we uncover the secrets of Sardinia’s past, explore the picturesque coasts, and traverse the rugged landscapes of Corsica. Delve into the history of Napoleone Bonaparte, savor the finest wines, and encounter ancient civilizations as you traverse these two jewels of the Mediterranean.
This journey through Sardinia and Corsica is a perfect fusion of heritage, natural beauty, and gastronomic excellence. Get ready to make lasting memories and indulge your senses in this unique and enriching experience.
Highlights
These highlights promise an enriching and diverse experience, encompassing history, culture, natural beauty, and culinary delights across Sardinia and Corsica.
• Explore the charming city of Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital, including its Castle, Cathedral, and National Archaeological Museum.
• Discover the ancient Phoenician town of Sant’Antioco in Sardinia, with visits to the historic town and Basilica of Sant’Antioco.
• Explore the picturesque fishing village of Calasetta, with a unique Genoan dialect.
• Immerse yourself in Sardinia’s history at the UNESCO-protected site of Barumini and Su Nuraxi.
• Visit the stunning Basilica of Santa Giusta in Oristano, Sardinia.
• Explore the medieval town of Bosa, known for its character and the Malaspina Castle.
• Discover the coastal charm of Alghero, a town influenced by Catalan culture.
• Visit the remarkable Basilica of Saccargia in Sardinia, built by the Pisans in the 12th century.
• Explore the historical town of Castelsardo in a scenic coastal location.
• Experience the scenic beauty of the Gallura Region in Sardinia, with granite rocks and Mediterranean vegetation.
• Enjoy a wine tasting experience at a local winery in the heart of the Gallura Region, featuring the renowned Vermentino di Gallura.
• Explore the luxurious town of Porto Cervo, famous for its billionaire hotels and villas.
• Visit significant archaeological sites in Sardinia, including Coddu Vecchiu and Nuraghe Prisgiona.
• Embark on a ferry ride to Bonifacio in Corsica, known for its charming town.
• Explore Sartene, a picturesque mountain town in Corsica, and enjoy free time and lunch.
• Discover the history and heritage of Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica and the hometown of Napoleon Bonaparte.
• Explore Cargese, the “Greek village of Corsica,” showcasing cultural influences.
• Immerse yourself in the rich history of Corte, Corsica’s ancient capital.
• Discover Calvi and its captivating landscapes, along with the charming village of Sant’Antonino.
• Explore various northern Corsican villages and the scenic beauty of Ile Rousse.
Day 1: Arrival in Cagliari: The Capital of Sardinia
Includes: Dinner
Overnight: Cagliari
Upon arrival at Cagliari Airport, guests will be welcomed by the local driver and guide. The group will be transferred to the city center.
In Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, a panoramic tour will provide an overview of the city’s key attractions. This includes the Castle with its impressive towers and ramparts, the historic cathedral, and the National Archaeological Museum. The museum houses an extraordinary collection of historical artifacts, featuring the renowned Giants of Monti Prama. These monumental statues depict ancient Sardinian heroes and are considered some of the oldest statues in the Mediterranean region, on par with the Greek Kouroi.
Following the tour and some free time for relaxation and shopping, guests will be transported to their accommodation. Check-in, enjoy a delightful dinner, and spend the night in Cagliari.
Day 2: Sant’Antioco and Nora: Phoenician Treasures of Sardinia!
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Cagliari
In the morning, we journey southwest to reach Sant’Antioco, the ancient Phoenician town of Sulki. Our first visit is to the historic town, where we explore its winding streets and alleys. A highlight of the visit is the Basilica of Sant’Antioco, an architectural gem constructed in Byzantine style.
This basilica is situated atop ancient catacombs, adding a layer of historical richness to the site. Next, we proceed to the charming fishing village of Calasetta, known for its community that still speaks a Genoan dialect. Guests will have free time for lunch en route.
During the afternoon, we follow the panoramic coastal road leading to Chia, where we finally arrive at the ancient town of Nora. Here, we encounter well-preserved Roman mosaics, an impressive theater, and thermal baths nestled by the sea. Following our exploration of Nora, we return to our accommodation in the Cagliari region.
The evening includes dinner and an overnight stay at the accommodation in Cagliari.
Day 3: Exploring Barumini Su Nuraxi, Oristano, and Bosa
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Alghero
After checking out from our accommodation, we embark on a journey to the Marmilla region, where the UNESCO-protected site of Barumini awaits. Our visit to this remarkable site allows us to explore the historical significance of Su Nuraxi.
Following our visit to Barumini, we continue westward, arriving in Oristano. During this leg of the journey, we make a stop to visit the Basilica of Santa Giusta, an awe-inspiring medieval church. Guests have free time to enjoy lunch in the Oristano region.
We remain on the road, traveling along the picturesque western coast of Sardinia until we reach the charming town of Bosa, known for its medieval character. The town’s quaint center is dominated by the imposing Malaspina C
astle. After exploring Bosa, we take the scenic road from Bosa to Alghero, finally reaching our accommodation in the Alghero region. The evening includes check-in, dinner, and an overnight stay at the accommodation in Alghero.
Day 4 – Discovering Alghero, Saccargia, and Castelsardo: Treasures of Northwestern Sardinia
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Olbia
After checking out, we begin our day by exploring the charming coastal town of Alghero. This picturesque Sardinian town is renowned for its strong Catalan influence and its stunning seaside atmosphere.
Guests will have free time to enjoy lunch in one of the local eateries in Alghero.
We set out for Codrongianos, making a stop to visit the awe-inspiring Basilica of Saccargia. This well-preserved church, constructed by the Pisans in the 12th century A.C., is considered one of the most spectacular churches in all of Sardinia.
Continuing our journey north, we arrive in Castelsardo, another historical gem of Sardinia, perched in a scenic coastal location. Our day concludes as we make our way to the enchanting Costa Smeralda region. After checking in, guests can enjoy dinner and settle in for an overnight stay at the accommodation in Olbia.
Day 5: Wine Tasting in a Local Winery, Porto Cervo Exploration, Coddu Vecchiu Tomb and Nuraghe Prisgiona
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Olbia
We begin our day by departing for Arzachena, a town nestled in the heart of the picturesque Gallura Region. Here, we’re captivated by the striking landscapes characterized by iconic granite rock formations and lush Mediterranean flora. It’s incredible to find such pristine natural beauty just a short distance from the bustling Emerald Coast.
A brief bus journey takes us to a local winery, where we explore the charming facilities and indulge in a wine tasting experience. This allows us to savor some of the region’s finest wines, especially the renowned Vermentino di Gallura. Our culinary journey continues with lunch at a nearby restaurant.
In the afternoon, we embark on a captivating walking tour of Porto Cervo, known for its luxurious hotels and villas, frequented by the international jet set.
We then delve into history as we explore remarkable archaeological sites. Our first stop is Coddu Vecchiu, home to Sardinia’s largest Giant’s Tomb, dating back to the Neolithic era. We then visit Nuraghe Prisgiona, a well-preserved structure surrounded by circular huts, providing insights into the lives of the Shardana people who lived here between 3000 and 3500 years ago.
Our day concludes with dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at our hotel.
Day 6 – Corsican Exploration: Bonifacio, Sartene and Ajaccio, main towns of southern Corsica
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Ajaccio
We kick off the day with an early check-out and a scenic ferry ride to Bonifacio in Corsica. Once we arrive, we’ll have time to explore the charming town.
Following a brief city tour, we continue our journey to Ajaccio. Along the way, we make a stop in Sartene, a picturesque mountain town, allowing free time for exploration and lunch.
In the afternoon, guided by a local expert, we dive into the heart of Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica and the hometown of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Our day concludes with check-in at our accommodation, a delightful dinner, and a restful overnight stay in the Ajaccio region.
Day 7 – Cargese, Corte, and Arrival in Calvi
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Calvi´
As the day begins, we head north of Ajaccio to explore Cargese, often referred to as the “Greek village of Corsica.” This unique destination offers a fascinating blend of cultural influences.
Continuing our journey eastward, we arrive in Corte, the island’s ancient capital. Here, with the guidance of a local expert, we immerse ourselves in the rich history and heritage of this remarkable town. Lunch is served in Corte.
After our guided exploration, we embark on the final leg of our journey, making our way to the Calvi region in the northern part of Corsica. Upon arrival, we check in at our hotel, savor a delightful dinner, and enjoy a restful overnight stay in Calvi.
Day 8 – Discovering Calvi, Northern Villages, and Ile Rousse
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Calvi´
This day is dedicated to exploring the captivating region of Calvi, accompanied by breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Our adventure also takes us to the charming village of Sant’Antonino and various northern Corsican villages, each with its own unique character.
We’ll embark on a memorable journey to Ile Rousse, an enchanting area known for its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere. After a day filled with exploration and discovery, we return to our accommodations in Calvi, where you’ll have the evening at your leisure to relax and savor the memories of your Corsican escapade.
Day 9 – Farewell to Corsica
Includes: Breakfast
On this final morning of our journey, we indulge in a delectable breakfast at our accommodations. Following this, we embark on a transfer to Bastia Airport, where it’s time to bid Corsica farewell. As our adventure concludes, we reflect on the incredible experiences and lasting memories from our Corsican and Sardinia exploration.
