Family holidays in Sardinia: explore the wonders of nature

Family holidays in Sardinia: explore the wonders of nature

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Mediterranean magic on a family holiday in Sardinia

The captivating island of Sardinia, with its rugged beauty, may not be an obvious family-friendly destination - but in fact there are loads of things to do for families in Sardinia, and it's the perfect place to take outdoorsy kids. While you won't find that many attractions aimed at kids, you'll uncover a wealth of activities and adventures. Youngsters will love the chance to try water sports, hike gentle paths, and let the ancient ruins fire their imagination. Prepare for a family holiday in Sardinia that no one will ever forget.

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Planning a family holiday in Sardinia

What are the best things to do for families in Sardinia?

The main attraction of a family holiday in Sardinia is the island's unspoiled beauty. It's coasts are dotted with beaches where children can play in the sand, paddle, swim, or snorkel; there are also lots of hiking trails to explore. However, Sardinia also has some more unusual attractions. In the park of La Giari di Gesturi, you have the chance to spot some of Europe's last remaining wild horses; you can't ride the famous cavallini, but the sight of them roaming free is sure to inspire any young nature lovers. Your family trip in Sardinia can also include activities like caving. The Grotta di Nettuno in northwest Sardinia is a spectacular cave filled with stalactites, stalagmites and subterranean freshwater lakes. Older children can easily explore the interior, which feels like a journey to a magical land.

Where should I stay for a family holiday in Sardinia?

Sardinia is a large island, and each zone has something quite different to offer. Think carefully when choosing family-friendly holiday lettings in Sardinia; you'll have to consider exactly what your family is looking for. In the northwest of the island, Gallura and Costa Smeralda are a good choices for a family beach holiday in Sardinia. This resort town has lots of child-friendly beaches where even little ones can enjoy a swim in the crystal clear waters. Costa Rei, in the southeast of the island, is ideal for older kids with a sense of adventure, as there are lots of great hiking trails nearby. Northwest Sardinia is perfect for water sports. There are lots of coral reefs in this area, so adventurous kids can grab a mask and snorkel and start exploring!

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FAQs: Family holidays in Sardinia

What's the best time of year to visit Sardinia?

Sardinia is a popular destination in the summer months, but be warned: it gets extremely hot. In July and August, daily highs of 32°C are common. Tropical nights can make it difficult to sleep without air conditioning, and young children may be extremely uncomfortable. The average high drops to around 24°C by October, so Sardinia may be a good choice for a half-term getaway. It's also warm and pleasant in the spring, although the sea will not yet be swimmable at Easter.

Where are the best family beaches in Sardinia?

To find child-friendly beaches in Sardinia, look for those which have a green flag. This award indicates that they are safe for swimming, and requires the approval of at least 35 paediatricians. Some of the best include the Poetto beach in Cagliari, which has lots of nearby amenities such as restaurants, kiosks, playgrounds, and so on. Around Oristanno, the beaches of Torregrande and Santa Giusta are popular with families, while in Sinis, you can visit Is Arutas and Mari Ermi, with gorgeous quartz-coloured sand and calm waters.

What are the most popular family attractions in Sardinia?

Head to the town of Barumini for one of the most unusual family attractions in Sardinia. Sardegna in Miniatura offers you the chance to take a look at a model of the island built on a much smaller scale. Even toddlers will feel like giants as they gaze down on this mini version of Sardinia. Another fun attraction is the Trenino Verde della Sardegna, or Sardinia's Little Green Train. This charming historic train runs from April to October, connecting the island's more remote villages. Young train enthusiasts will love it - but so will you, as you can sit back and relax, watching the island's captivating scenery pass by your window.

How easy is it to find family-friendly restaurants in Sardinia?

Italian food is usually a good bet for fussy eaters. In smaller towns in Sardinia, you may struggle to find much else, as the locals don't tend to care for fast food. Luckily, child-friendly pasta dishes are always easy to come by. Keep in mind that Sardinian cuisine tastes differ somewhat from mainland Italian. The islanders often have more of a taste for spice, and fiery dried chillies tend to appear in their tomato sauces, so it's important to look for something mild on the menu for little ones.

What can I do with my kids in Sardinia if the weather's bad?

As well as its wild beauty, Sardinia has a number of interesting cultural attractions that kids can enjoy. On a rainy day, visit the city of Sassari and let the youngsters explore its medieval centre. The city boasts an interesting historical museum where you can see artifacts from the ancient Nuragic and Roman civilisations who once lived on the island. Around the Costa Smerelda, consider visiting an educational farm. They're a popular attraction for families on the island, giving kids the chance to see how farm animals are reared and what a typical day is like in the agricultural sector, and they're often still open for visits in bad weather.