The pretty and historic town of Castelsardo is located on the glorious North coast of the island of Sardinia, an island which in itself has much to offer the visitor.
The town is replete with a wealth of cultural delights and historical sights and is popular with tourists, and the warm welcome from the locals will delight all who choose to visit.
History and Traditions of Castelsardo
The town itself is one that has been around for many centuries, and the glorious Doria Castle itself is a wonderful relic from a bygone age.
Home to a fascinating museum dedicated to the local craft of weaving, it occupies a magnificent location overlooking the beautiful blue seas that surround the island.
One major attraction that must not be missed is Elephant’s Rock, a remarkable outcrop that resembles the animal from which it takes its name, and one of the traditional symbols of Sardinia.
Perhaps the best way to reach it is by car from the town itself, and hiring a car at the Alghero airport gives you the best chance of exploring the island and its many attractions.
The Elephant’s Rock can be found next to the SS134, and also features fascinating Neolithic tombs.
Back in Castelsardo itself it is essential to visit the historic city centre; here you can see the cathedral, dedicated to St Anthony the Abbott, as well as the ancient Church of St Mary, which is interesting thanks to its unusual black wooden figure of Christ.
Both of these wonderful churches are very much part of life in the town and, like many places on the island, religious festivals can be experienced across the year.
No visit to Sardinia could be complete without visiting the Nuraghe Paddaju, the magnificent megalithic constructions that are the last remnants of an ancient Sardinian civilisation, the Nuragic people, who lived here from the Bronze Age until the 2nd century BC.
The megalithic walls in the city centre predate this civilization.
Getting to Castelsardo by Car
Visiting Castelsardo, you will also want to explore some of the other towns and villages on the island, as well as the amazing Nuragic architecture.
The best way to do so is by hire car, and in addition Castelsardo is easily accessible from the airport at Alghero, just 60km away. Follow the well-signposted SS291 from the airport until reaching the town of Sassari, where you should pick up the SS60 towards the coast.
From there, head towards Castelsardo via the SP48 and SS200; the entire journey should take little more than an hour, depending upon the traffic.
The town of Castelsardo is one of many delightful and fascinating places on the wonderful island of Sardinia, and offers access not just to the historical landmarks mentioned but also to nearby towns, fine beaches, wonderful restaurants and comfortable hotels, and visiting with a hire car comes highly recommended.
Explore more
The touristic website of Castelsardo, Sassari, Sardinia.
With quaint cafes and restaurants in unspoilt lanes and a collection of shops selling a variety of local goods, this is old-world Sardinia at its best, an unspoilt idyll that makes for an excellent family holiday or romantic break.