If when you choose a holiday destination you also give importance to the spectacular nature of the places, then this list of Olbia and surroundings is the one for you: we will show you postcard beaches, breathtaking landscapes, urban views, historical and archaeological remains and much more. A mix that makes this area one of the most beautiful not only to live and explore, but also to photograph and share on social media with friends and followers. We have selected for you 10 places worthy of the best Instagram feeds: let's discover them together!
Symbol of the city of Olbia, this crescent-shaped beach sheltered from the winds is a splendid expanse of white sand, just eight kilometers from the city center. With its shallow seabed and crystal-clear waters, it is the perfect beach for both families with children and snorkeling enthusiasts. The view of Tavolara and the changing shades of the sea, which range from turquoise to emerald green, ensure truly spectacular photos.
The medieval castle of Pedres was built around 1200 to defend Olbia and the borders of the Giudicato di Gallura. At its feet stands the ancient tomb of giants of Su Monte e S’Abe, composed of a funeral corridor and a semicircular exedra intended for rites. The photo of this fascinating monument from the Nuragic era, with the medieval tower in the background, is one of the most evocative that you can take in Olbia.
The Ferris wheel on the seafront of Olbia has been rightly nicknamed “La Maestosa”: 36 meters high and equipped with 26 cabins, this attraction allows the gaze to wander over the Gulf of Olbia, all the way to Mount Limbara. While the wheel is definitely worth a ride with a view at sunset, from below the wheel is decidedly “instagrammable” both during the day and in the light of the thousands of LEDs that make it shine when night falls.
Porto Taverna beach, located in the bay of the same name a few kilometers from Olbia, looks like a Caribbean shoreline of clear water and white sand, with a view of the imposing Isola di Tavolara and a lagoon behind it populated by pink flamingos and other rare species of migratory birds. Moving further south you reach other splendid beaches, such as Cala Brandinchi, La Cinta and Lu Impostu. A true paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
One of the most iconic buildings in the city, the Basilica of San Simplicio is a masterpiece of the Romanesque architecture of the island and one of the most important places of worship in Gallura. The three-nave church, dedicated to the patron saint of the city, was built in various phases between the eleventh century and the second half of the thirteenth. The festival dedicated to San Simplicio is celebrated in the month of May and is one of the most heartfelt and spectacular celebrations on the entire island. The square in front provides several beautiful perspectives of the church for your shots.
Protected by a natural inlet, the port "Marina di Porto Rotondo" is one of the most popular destinations for those who practice nautical tourism. The glamorous clubs, the promenade, the shops and the villas with their wonderful gardens make it one of the places to see and photograph in Northern Sardinia. From the beach of Punta Nuraghe, from which it is possible to reach and visit an ancient nuraghe, there is a beautiful view of the Gulf of Cugnana.
Set among the scenic Monti di Cugnana, this village with a bohemian charm is an unmissable pearl of the hinterland, reachable from Olbia via a panoramic road. The famous Thursday market, the concentration of artists who populate it, the maze of narrow streets and the granite houses that recall the Gallura stazzi, make it an unmissable stop. San Pantaleo offers a variety of views of rare beauty, all to be enjoyed and photographed.
Located along the road that leads from Olbia to the beach of Pittulongu, the sacred well of Sa Testa is an ancient sanctuary from the Bronze Age, where the Nuragic rites linked to the cult of water were held. The external plan recalls the shape of a lock, while a series of steps lead to the actual well, where there is a perennial spring. This monument with a mysterious charm offers different shots for truly original and unusual photos.
If you are looking for likes, this corner of Gallura will not disappoint your expectations: Cala Moresca, in the Golfo Aranci area, is an inlet consisting of two beautiful beaches and bordered by a pine forest. The islet of Figarolo, with its characteristic pyramid shape, dominates the landscape. For trekking enthusiasts, a path starts from here that leads to the Capo Figari lighthouse, from which you can enjoy an unparalleled view of the cliffs below and Tavolara.
The outdoor terrace of the Marra restaurant, with its priceless view of the gulf, is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a cocktail at sunset. Immersed in a Mediterranean garden with swimming pool, the terrace is the ideal place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city, savour refined and authentic cuisine and take memorable photos of your holidays, perhaps sipping our highly appreciated Spritz Sardo al mirto rosso.