Escape to Sardinia: Paradise Found Without Breaking the Bank
Imagine pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush palm trees swaying gently in the breeze. This idyllic scene, reminiscent of the Maldives, can be found right here on the Italian island of Sardinia.
Sardinia, the Mediterranean’s second-largest island after Sicily, boasts breathtaking beaches so stunning that two of them have even secured a coveted spot on The World’s 50 Best Beaches 2024 list, curated by over a thousand travel experts.
While parts of Sardinia, like the glamorous Emerald Coast, are known for attracting a jet-setting crowd with luxury yachts and high-end designer boutiques, you can absolutely experience the island’s allure without spending a fortune. As I recently discovered on my own Sardinian adventure, a week here can be enjoyed for around $1,500, including flights from London. My secret? Traveling during the shoulder season.
I chose to visit in late September, after the peak season rush and before the cooler autumn temperatures set in. The weather was still warm and sunny, and I avoided the summer throngs. Opting for mid-range accommodations that included some meals also helped keep costs down. I also prioritized staying in areas with local restaurants, where prices were generally more affordable.
My search for the perfect Sardinian retreat led me to Neilson’s Baia dei Mori Beach Club. Located on the northeastern coast, just a short drive from Olbia airport, this resort offers a tranquil escape near breathtaking beaches. A week-long stay, including flights, transfers, breakfast, lunch, four dinners, and a plethora of on-site activities, was incredibly affordable at approximately 849 British pounds per person (around $1,102) based on double occupancy.
The resort’s website promised a picture-perfect paradise—pale sandy beaches framed by swaying pine trees, and comfortable rooms nestled amidst verdant gardens—and it definitely delivered.
My days were a blissful mix of invigorating activities and pure relaxation. I started most mornings with energizing yoga sessions on a wooden deck overlooking the seashore, followed by hours of sun-drenched beach bliss. The afternoons often found me participating in aqua aerobics classes, exploring the shoreline on guided mountain bike rides, or honing my windsurfing skills.
One unforgettable experience was a guided stand-up paddleboard safari. Paddling along
peninsula, I explored hidden coves and finally arrived at the breathtaking Budoni Bay, a 4 km stretch of pristine white sand with stunning views of the mountainous Isola Tavolara.
In the evenings, we would often stroll into the charming village of Tanaunella for delicious and affordable meals.
One of our favorite spots was L’Hotel Pedra Niedda, where I savored malloreddus alla campidanese, a traditional Sardinian pasta dish, for only 12 euros. For budget-friendly pizza cravings, Pizzeria da Paolo was a winner, serving up scrumptious pies for under 10 euros.
On one occasion,
we splurged on a delicious tuna steak with an anchovy mayonnaise at Ristorante La Volpe for 25 euros.
Our remaining budget went to enjoying cocktails at local bars and indulging in authentic Italian coffee. We also rented a car for a day (around 120 euros, including delivery, collection, and gas) to explore the majestic Gulf of Orosei and the rugged Gennargentu national park, home to towering cliffs and a string of hidden white-sand beaches.
Our scenic coastal drive led us to the secluded cove of Cala Fuili.
A tiny white pebble beach nestled beneath dramatic cliffs popular with rock climbers.
Like many popular destinations, Sardinia is taking steps to preserve its natural beauty by limiting visitor numbers to some beaches during peak season.
La Pelosa beach, for example, has implemented restrictions on towel placements to prevent sand removal.
My hotel’s commitment to sustainable tourism was evident in its low-rise design, nestled back from the shore and connected to the beach by marked paths. The beach itself was always spacious and tranquil.
My Sardinian adventure proved that paradise can indeed be found without spending a fortune.
It was the perfect off-season escape, filled with sunshine, stunning landscapes, and beautiful memories.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Travel Expert on Sardinia
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, everyone! Today we have a special guest, travel expert Emma Gonçalves, who has recently returned from a delightful trip to Sardinia. Emma, thank you for joining us.
Emma Gonçalves (EG): Thank you for having me! I’m excited to share my experiences in Sardinia.
TNE: Sardinia often calls to mind images of opulence and exclusivity, yet you mention that travelers can experience its beauty without breaking the bank. Can you expand on how you managed that?
EG: Absolutely! Many people think of Sardinia as a destination for the wealthy, especially places like the Emerald Coast. However, by traveling during the shoulder season, particularly in late September, I found that the prices significantly drop while the weather remains warm and beautiful. A total trip cost me about $1,500, including flights from London.
TNE: That’s impressive! What specific strategies did you employ to save money while still enjoying the island?
EG: I stayed in mid-range accommodations like Neilson’s Baia dei Mori Beach Club, which provided great value. My package included not just lodging but also breakfast, lunch, four dinners, and numerous activities. Additionally, I sought out local restaurants rather than high-end establishments, where the food was both delicious and affordable.
TNE: It sounds like you found a perfect balance between affordability and quality. For our readers curious about what to do in Sardinia, could you share some of your favorite activities?
EG: Absolutely! My mornings usually began with yoga on a deck overlooking the beach, which set a peaceful tone for the day. Once I was energized, I enjoyed activities like aqua aerobics, guided mountain biking, and even learning windsurfing. One of the highlights was the guided stand-up paddleboard safari. We explored hidden coves and reached Budoni Bay, which is truly breathtaking.
TNE: That sounds amazing! Speaking of beaches, I understand that two Sardinian beaches made it onto The World’s 50 Best Beaches list for 2024. How did you find the beaches during your visit?
EG: The beaches are nothing short of spectacular. The fine white sand and clear turquoise waters create a postcard-perfect scene. Budoni Bay, in particular, was a favorite of mine—a 4 km stretch of pristine beach where I felt I could have spent the entire day soaking in the sun. It really does rival some of the most famous beaches around the world.
TNE: And, of course, let’s touch on your evening experiences. You mentioned strolling into the village of Tanaunella. What was that like?
EG: Charming! The village has a lovely, local vibe, and I enjoyed discovering quaint restaurants serving authentic Sardinian cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, perfect for winding down after a day of adventure. The local people were friendly, and I felt genuinely immersed in the culture.
TNE: With so many hidden gems, would you recommend Sardinia to travelers looking for an affordable Mediterranean escape?
EG: Without a doubt! Sardinia offers a little bit of everything—from stunning natural beauty to rich cultural experiences—all at prices that aren’t just for the elite. Whether you’re looking to relax or seek adventure, there’s something for everyone.
TNE: Emma, thank you so much for sharing your insights. Sardinia sounds like an ideal destination, and your advice on visiting during the shoulder season is invaluable.
EG: It was my pleasure! I hope everyone gets a chance to discover the magic of Sardinia for themselves.
TNE: And to our readers, happy travels! Don’t forget to check out the beautiful island of Sardinia. Until next time!