My Sardinia

Tavolara island from Lu Nibareddu-Photo by Federico Falchi

After welcoming all things Italy, think you’re turning into a plate of parmigiana? Sure, there’s some truth behind the notion of having too much of a good thing—which, in some cases, may eventually end up spoilt and rotten—so it would probably be best to add a few options to the Italian adventure.

Much like a glass of sparkling water after consuming bottles of full-bodied red wine, Sardinia is the kind of refreshing break one needs during these times.

Even famed writer D. H. Lawrence reveled in the still-pristine state of the island, declaring the gorgeous terrain and quaint, picturesque villages of Sardinia “not a bit like the rest of Italy”.

Lawrence’s words, as profound and revered as they are, remain credible to this day, with the colorful and magical plethora of pink flamingos, wild horses, and storied ruins of Sardinia providing actual evidence.

It isn’t surprising that such a land of charm and beauty would be marked for claim by many; the Phoenicians, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals,  Moors, Pisans, Aragonese and Spaniards are just some of the illustrious invaders that have set foot on Sardinia. The result of these invasions came in the form of political and governmental system changes, with Italy’s Vittorio Emanuele proving to be the most successful of all. The former king of Italy strategically planned Sardinia’s inclusion in his kingdom, a decision that appeared to be beneficial for both parties in terms of power, network, and business.

Posada River- Photo by Moreno Aguiari

Agriculture is Sardinia’s main source of income, particularly during this century. Until a few decades previously, the island’s feudal system upheld the power and control of the padroni or landlords, with farmers unable to do anything beyond working for minimal pay. After the positive changes made by the Italian Communist Party, through the efforts of Sardinian leaders Antonio Gramsci and Enrico Berlinguer, land has become accessible for ownership by farmers.

However, the beauty and quaintness of Sardinia come with a caveat—tourism is relatively inadequate, making most areas virtually unreachable. Having a car would be a tourist’s best option in exploring the island.

However in the last few years Sardinian Tourism services have improved thanks to local young entrepreneurs, the English as well as other languages are widely spoken by local operators and many new services and tourist bureaus have been created.

Sardinia is truly a unique place, like many say IT’S ALMOST A CONTINENT. Where else you can enjoy beautiful almost Caribbean looking beaches, amazing mountains to climb,rivers to raft, unique to Sardinia fauna and flora, wild horses, an authentic Western town, caves and much more!

Dolphins swimming right between Tavolara and Molara- Photo by Massimo Loche