Sardinia (or Sardegna in Italian) is a large Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea, off the western Italian coast and just south of Corsica. It has low mountains, mainly to the east of the island, and a craggy, steep coastline, with beaches interspersed with rocky headlands. Sardinia has been invaded many times, each invasion leaving its mark on the island's culture and cuisine, even to the exten that a form of Catalan is spoken in some areas.

Many people come here for the beaches, particularly in summer and these range from the unspoilt to the upmarket Costa Smeralda in the north, with its exclusive villas and breathtaking beaches. Sardinia is popular for swimming, sailing and diving, particularly in the underwater caves around Alghero. Inland, this is still very much an outdoors destination, with hiking and even some skiing.

Sporting activities aside, Sardinia is also known for its many nuraghes - pre-historic structures or forts, usually located on hills. It is also home to many national and regional parks. Alghero with its 12th century centre, cobbled streets and stunning beaches is well worth a visit, as is Bosa with its historic centre. If you really want to get away from it all though, you migh want to head inland for a real Sardinian experience and explore the island's many tiny untouched villages.

Sardinia has a reasonable number of major hotels, with local privately run hotels possibly providing a more authentic experience. The ubiquitous Italian agriturismo, or farmstay is a very popular form of accommodation here as well. Other places to stay or rent include houses by the sea, rural cottages and apartments, both on the coast and in the counryside.