Sardinia & Corsica | 14 Days

DAY 1:                   CAGLIARI

Upon arrival into Cagliari, you will be transferred to your tour hotel. Settle into your accommo­dation in beautiful Cagliari, where the magic of Sardinia awaits.

DAY 2:                  CAGLIARI

After breakfast, meet the local guide in the hotel lobby and embark on a captivating three-hour walking tour through the heart of Sardinia’s capital. Cagliari’s historic centre is divided into three charming neighbourhoods: Castello, Stam­pace, and Marina. During the tour, you’ll explore must-visit land­marks, including the Bastion of Saint-Remy, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Elephant Tower, and Via Roma. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your leisure. You can also take the opportunity for a scenic stroll along the Cagliari coast­line, leading you to the renowned Poetto Beach. Overnight Cagliari. (B)

DAY 3:                   CAGLIARI – ORISTANO – TINNURA – BOSA – ALGHERO

After breakfast, depart for Oristano, a city steeped in fascinating history intertwined with the Phoenicians and a national heroine, Eleonora de Arborea. We’ll explore the cathedral and Oristano’s most prominent square. Continue to Tinnura, a tiny village where it’s worth taking a leisurely stroll to admire its captivating murals. Our adventure then continues towards Bosa, where we’ll treat ourselves to a traditional Sardinian gastronomic expe­rience at a local restaurant. Following a sumptuous lunch, we’ll explore the picturesque town of Bosa, nestled on the banks of the Temo River, which flows into the nearby Bosa Marina beach. The historic village, also known as Sa Costa, flourishes around the Castle of Serravalle, a 12th-13th century construc­tion by Duke Malaspina. Bosa is renowned for its high-quality olive oil and wines, especially the Malvasia (a DOC brand), as well as its historic tuna fisheries. Many of the town’s shops specialize in coral craftsmanship, gold filigree, and lacework. Our journey then continues to Alghero, where we’ll arrive in the late afternoon. Overnight Alghero. (B, L)

DAY 4:                  ALGHERO – CAPO CACCIA – ALGHERO

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a walking tour through the historic heart of this enchanting medieval city with Catalan origins, often hailed as the most beautiful in all Sar­dinia. It’s affectionately referred to as “Barceloneta”, harkening back to the days when it was part of the Crown of Aragon. Its unique location, nestled within seaside walls, grants it a distinct charm and atmosphere. We’ll meander through its old town adorned with noble palaces, churches, and hidden courtyards. Alghero boasts a rugged and marvellous coastline, stretching for over 100 kilometres with secluded beaches dotting its path. At midday, we’ll enjoy a lunch at a charming estate, savouring the exquisite Sardinian Mountain and sea cui­sine. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a panoramic drive along the coast, leading us to the magnificent Capo Caccia Natural Reserve. The views from atop the cliffs and the lighthouse are nothing short of sublime. Returning to Alghero, you’ll have some free time to explore and unwind. Overnight Alghero. (B, L)

DAY 5:                  ALGHERO – CASTELSARDO – TEMPIO PAUSANIA – PALAU

After breakfast, travel to Castelsardo, situated near the renowned “Costa Paradiso” known for its rugged and wild beaches and rocky landscapes. Castelsardo is a charming coastal village, characterized by its tightly clustered houses nestled between the sea and the castle perched high above. We’ll explore the historic centre and relish in its breathtaking panoramas. Next, we’ll venture into the rural heartland of Gallura, stopping in Tempio Pausania. This small town boasts one of the best-pre­served ancient centres in Sardinia, where you’ll feel as though time has stood still while wandering its narrow streets and squares adorned with baroque churches and stone palaces. The tour will subsequently lead us to Luras, where we will visit the Galluras Museum to take a step back in time. This is a pri­vate museum, created and envisioned by its owner, who began collecting and showing interest in the history of these places from a young age. The owner himself will welcome you and guide you through the museum spaces, providing fascinating explanations and anecdotes, allowing you to journey through history. The path is organized on three levels with entrance and exit through the ground floor. The environments have been re­constructed with great care and attention to detail, respecting the structure and balance of the old Gallurese houses. A focal point of the visit is the story of Femina Agabbadòra, a mythical female figure who, in these countryside areas, used a wooden hammer to assist those who were dying and hopeless. Her tool was said to be a hammer wrapped in thick black orbace fabric. This figure inspired the book “Accabbadora” by Michela Murgia, one of the most renowned contemporary Italian writers who recently passed away at the age of 51. Finally, we’ll reach Palau, for overnight. (B)

DAY 6:                   PALAU – GALLURA REGION – PORTO ROTONDO – PORTO CERVO (COSTA SMERALDA) – PALAU

After breakfast, you’ll have some free time to unwind by the pool or sea, enjoying moments of relaxation. Around midday, we’ll head to a charming estate in the Gallura region, where you’ll indulge in a delightful culinary experience featuring the best of both land and sea. Afterward, we’ll embark on a sce­nic journey along the Costa Smeralda road, making two stops and granting you free time to explore the exclusive locales of Porto Rotondo and Porto Cervo. Return to Palau for overnight. (B, L)

DAY 7:                   PALAU – PORTO VECCHIO

After breakfast, check-out, and transfer from the hotel to the port. Board the ferry heading to your next destination: Corsica. Once aboard, relax and enjoy the picturesque journey across the Strait of Bonifacio. Upon arrival at the port, our warm-hearted driver will be ready to assist you with the transfer to the hotel. Check in at the Hotel. Lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll have some free time to explore and unwind. Later in the evening, meet your Tour Leader at the hotel. Welcome briefing and dinner at the hotel. (B, D)

DAY 8:                   PORTO VECCHIO – BONIFACIO – PORTO VECCHIO

After breakfast, meet with our guide for a visit to Bonifacio, a town perched on a cliff over 60 metres above the sea, boasting a fjord and an exceptional marine environment. No description can truly capture the astonishing citadel that meticulously preserves its medieval appearance. We’ll embark on a city tour via a tourist train that grants access to the upper town. Afterward, we’ll have free time to enjoy lunch (not included). Following that, we’ll embark on a “Cliff Discovery” boat ride, featuring a guided tour of the sea caves, the cliffs of Fazzio and Paraguan, the old, fortified town, the King of Aragon’s staircase, and the famous grain of sand. Return to the hotel for overnight. (B)

DAY 9:                   PORTO VECCHIO – OLMETO – COL SAINT GEORGES -AJACCIO

After breakfast, travel to Roccapina, Sartène, renowned as “the most Corsican of Corsican towns,” with its beautiful stone houses. Along the way, you’ll pass by the Gulf of Valinco, Olmeto, the village where Colomba, the heroine of Prosper Mérimée, lived, Col Saint Georges (747m), Cauro, and Ajaccio. Explore the imperial city, including the Genoese quarter and the Renaissance-style cathedral where Napoleon was baptized. Visit the Place du Diamant, the fishing port dedicated to Tino Rossi, Place du Maréchal Foch, Rue Fesch, and its shops. Enjoy a delicious lunch (included). After lunch, continue to Cours Grandval, Place Austerlitz, and the Pointe de la Parata, which offers a view of the famous Sanguinaires Islands. Finally, transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at your disposal. Overnight. (B, L)

DAY 10:                AJACCIO – PIANA – AJACCIO

After having breakfast at the hotel, we will set off towards the Gulf of Sagone and Cargèse, founded in 1770 as a colony for Greeks from the Peloponnese. Our journey will then take us to the village of Piana, renowned as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Piana is famous for its stunning Calanques, sculpted by erosion and displaying unique shapes that inspired Guy de Maupassant. We will also explore the Gulf of Porto, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After some free time, there will be a boat tour to the Calanques of Piana (subject to weather conditions). We’ll return to the hotel for the evening. (B)

DAY 11:                 AJACCIO – CORTE – BASTIA

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Today’s journey takes you to Corte, the former capital of Corsica and a thriving university town. Corte is known for its citadel, perched high like an eagle’s nest, commanding breathtaking views of the Restonica Valley. Explore the city with a guided tour on a tourist train, soaking in its rich history. Afterward, enjoy a satisfying lunch. Continue your adventure to Bastia, where you’ll have some free time in the afternoon to explore the town at your leisure. In the evening, savour a delicious dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Bastia. (B, L, D)

DAY 12:                BASTIA – CALVI – BASTIA

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. Today, your journey takes you to Calvi, known as “civitas semper fidelis”, which remained steadfastly loyal to the Genoese for many centuries, earning it this motto. Calvi is also steeped in the legend of Christopher Columbus, who is said to have been born here. During your excursion, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a wine tasting of AOC wines at “Chez Lucienne”. Afterward, you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, explore the charming old villages of Balagne, including Lumio, Cateri, San-Antonino, which is perched on a rocky hill and classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Pigna, and Corbara. Return to Bastia and time at your disposal. Overnight Bastia. (B)

DAY 13:               BASTIA – ERBALUNGA – LAVASINA – BASTIA

Kick-start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Begin your exploration in Bastia, the captivating capital of Upper Corsica, boasting its historic old port, charming Place St. Nicolas, and enchanting cobblestone streets. Next, venture on a captivating journey to discover the beauty of Cap Corse. Wander through Erbalunga, a picturesque village that has inspired many artists, and Lavasina, a renowned pilgrimage site. Lunch is at your leisure, allowing you to savour a fulfilling meal and recharge for the day’s adventures. Continue your excursion through Sisco, Luri, Col de Sainte-Lucie (381 m), Pino, and the renowned Nonza with its iconic square tower. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at the Agriates Desert and St. Florent before concluding the guided tour services for the day. In the afternoon, return to Bastia, where you’ll have free time at your disposal. (B)

DAY 14:                BASTIA

After breakfast, end of our services. (B)

Accommodation (or similar):

CAGLIARI: Unahotels T Hotel Cagliari

ALGHERO: Catalunya (4*) or Smy Carlos V Wellness and Spa

PALAU: La Vecchia Fonte

PORTO VECCHIO: Golden Tulip Porto Vecchio

AJACCIO: Ibis Style Napoleon

BASTIA: Hotel Ostella Spa & Resort

Includes:

–          Transportation by deluxe motorcoach

–          English speaking tour escort

–          13 nights accommodation in superior class hotels

–          Meals as per itinerary

–          Arrival and departure transfers on the first and last day of the tour

Not Included:

–          Tips

–          Drinks

–          Entrance fees to monuments or museums when not mentioned

–          City tax for overnight stays (according to each city council rules)

–          Everything that is not mentioned in “Includes”

Things to Note:

–          Accommodation is subject to change without notice. Every effort is made to avoid hotel changes, but should a mid-tour hotel change become necessary after this list has been printed, contact details of the new hotel will be supplied to you by your Tour Director.

–          Hotel taxes, service charges and tips for baggage handling are not included in the tour price.

–          Tour can be a combination of regular tours, therefore coach changes may be required. The same people may not be travelling throughout the tour.

–          For operational reasons, order of itinerary and/or excursions is subject to change at any time. Optional excursions not specified in our itinerary will be suggested by the tour leader.

–          A government tourist tax may need to be paid locally upon arrival at your hotels.