Alghero & Surroundings – Mini-Guide

27 Dec 2016 @bluAlghero-Sardinia

Alghero & the Coral Riviera – Mini-Guide

 

On this Alghero mini-guide, we’ll discover the pretty town of Alghero on the north-western coast of Sardinia, a city with a fascinating history and unique beauty. Its name is linked to the Riviera del Corallo (Coral Riviera), a stretch of coastline known for the presence of the prized red coral, the city’s symbol and the focus of a craft tradition that is still alive today. Strategically located, Alghero has experienced Catalan dominations that have left an indelible imprint on its language, architecture and cuisine.

 

 

 

🔹 The Historic Centre: What to See

The heart of Alghero retains a medieval atmosphere with narrow streets and ramparts overlooking the sea.

 

Alghero mini-guide

 

Do not miss

  • Marco Polo ramparts for a panoramic walk.
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria, an example of Catalan Gothic.
  • Sulis Tower and the Tower of San Giovanni.
  • Piazza Civica, the hub of the historic city.

 

 

 Recommended excursion: Historical city tour with local guide (duration 1h 30min)

 

 

 

🔹 Alghero’s Beaches: Where to Go and How to Get There

Alghero offers some of the best beaches in Sardinia, easily accessible by car or public transport

 

 

 

Main beaches of Alghero

  • Lido di San Giovanni: the town beach, perfect for families.
  • Maria Pia: famous for its sand dunes and pine forest.
  • Le Bombarde: ideal for snorkelling and water sports.
  • Lazzaretto: enchanting coves and crystal clear sea.
  • Mugoni: sheltered bay with calm water, perfect for relaxation.

 

 

How to get there

  • Seasonal ‘Beach Bus’ bus line connects the centre with the main beaches.
  • Car hire recommended for greater freedom.

 

 

Recommended excursion: tour of secret beaches and the coast (duration 7h)

 

 

 

Parco Naturale di Porto Conte

A protected natural area that encompasses some of the most striking landscapes in the area

 

Mini-Guida Alghero: Parco di Porto Conte

 

What to see in the Porto Conte park

  • Hiking or cycling along scenic paths.
  • The majestic Capo Caccia cliff with breathtaking sunsets.
  • The famous Cabirol staircase (656 steps) leading to the Neptune Caves

 

 

🔹 Recommended excursion: one-day boat trip with lunch (duration 7h 30min)

 

 

 

🔹 Archaeology: historical sites in Alghero

Alghero and its surroundings are home to archaeological sites of great historical value.

 

 

To visit

  • Nuraghe Palmavera: one of the best preserved in Sardinia.
  • Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju: 38 prehistoric tombs excavated in the rock.
  • Villa romana di sant’Imbenia: remains of a luxurious Roman villa

 

 

Recommended excursion: Visit to the Nuraghe of Palmavera and Porto Conte Park

 

 

 

🔹 Recommended Tours and Excursions

 

For sea lovers

  • Catamaran excursion with aperitif.
  • Snorkelling day in the Coral Riviera.

 

 

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For nature lovers

  • Trekking at Capo Caccia.
  • Jeep excursion in the Porto Conte Park.

 

 

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🔹Where to Sleep: Recommended Hotels and B&Bs

 

🗺️ Budget: Hotel El Balear

🏨 Comfort: Hotel Alma

🌟 Luxury: Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa

🏕️ Rural: Agriturismo Casale degli Ulivi

🏖️ Alternative: Rifugio di mare

 

 

 

Food and Restaurants: Typical flavours of Alghero

Algherese cuisine is a unique fusion of Sardinian tradition and Catalan influences

 

Mini-Guida Alghero: dove mangiare

 

What to eat

  • Paella all’algherese
  • Catalan-style lobster
  • Fregola with seafood
  • Fish soup (Copatxa de peix)
  • Catalan cream

 

 

Where to eat

  • Lo Romani
  • Il pesce d’oro
  • Mabrouk
  • Agriturismo Sa mandra

 

 

🔹 Suggested tour: Cooking class in a typical Sardinian house with dinner

 

 

 

ℹ️ Useful Info for Visiting Alghero

 

📅 Best period: spring, June, September, October to avoid the summer crowds.

 

✈️ How to get there: Alghero-Fertilia airport (10 km from the centre).

 

🚗 Recommended means of transport: hire car to explore the surroundings. (Prices from 20€ per day on DiscoverCars →)

 

 

 

📍 Visit bluAlghero.com for lots of interesting facts and tips on the wonders of Alghero!

 


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