North-west Sardegna brings together volcanic cliffs, historic hilltop villages, and fine sandy beaches. This itinerary focuses on the stretch of coast linking Castelsardo, Alghero, and Bosa, ideal for exploring by car along panoramic cliffside roads.
Spring and early summer (May to June), as well as September, are the best times for a weekend here: you can easily combine days on the beach with strolls through historic centres, steering clear of the scorching temperatures and heavy August traffic.
A weekend in north-west Sardegna
Day 1 — The scenic coastal drive to Bosa
Morning
Your day begins along the Strada Panoramica Alghero-Bosa (SP105/SP49). It's a route of about 45 km poised between Mediterranean scrub and volcanic cliffs: the drive takes around 50 minutes, but it's worth factoring in extra time to enjoy the sweeping coastal bends. Along the way, Spiaggia di S'Abba Druche is well worth a stop—an unspoilt cove of fine sand and crystal-clear water, about three kilometres from Bosa.
Afternoon
Once in Bosa, the river Temo (the only navigable river on the island) leads the way. Along its banks, you'll encounter the Ponte Vecchio e Antiche Concerie del Temo, with its red trachyte bridge and former industrial buildings. From here, make your way up to the Quartiere medievale Sa Costa, a hillside quarter of steep alleyways and pastel-painted houses. At the top stands the Castello dei Malaspina (Castello di Serravalle), a 12th-century stronghold offering remarkable views over the valley.
Evening
For dinner with a view of the floodlit castle, consider I Giardini Malaspina at the foot of the fortress; booking ahead is essential in high season. If you'd rather stay in the historic quarter to sample fresh catch and river specialities, Trattoria Sa Nassa is a solid choice. On the drive back north, you'll find Ristorante La Speranza along the coastal road at Porto Pollina, a historic spot serving fresh seafood since 1966.
Day 2 — The ramparts of Alghero and Capo Caccia
Morning
Spend the morning at the promontory of Parco Naturale di Capo Caccia, a sheer limestone cliff plunging into the sea that is perfect for hiking and walking down towards the Grotta di Nettuno. Closer to town, on the Riviera del Corallo, lies Spiaggia delle Bombarde, a stretch of fine sand with turquoise water framed by lush Mediterranean greenery.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon wandering through the historic centre of Alghero. Amid the cobbled lanes stands the Cattedrale di Santa Maria, distinctive for its late-Gothic bell tower and majolica spire. Just a short walk away, the 17th-century Chiesa di San Michele catches the eye with its octagonal dome clad in colourful majolica tiles. Save sunset for the Bastioni e Centro Storico di Alghero: these Catalan sea-facing ramparts are ideal for a leisurely one- or two-hour stroll along the walls.
Evening
For dinner, head towards Piazza Sulis in the town centre: at Ristorante Il Pavone, set inside a period palazzo, you can enjoy Sardinian seafood dishes with views over the promenade. Another great town option is Ristorante Musciora, where traditional Sardinian classics such as porcetto and lorighittas are given a contemporary twist.
Day 3 — Castelsardo and the waters of Stintino
Morning
Heading north, you'll reach Castelsardo. The heart of the town is the Castello dei Doria e Borgo Medievale, a fortress overlooking the Golfo dell'Asinara. Inside sits the Museo dell'Intreccio Mediterraneo, surrounded by the panoramic lanes of the upper town.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, travel to Stintino and its famous Spiaggia La Pelosa. Its shallow, clear waters and views of the Aragonese tower and Asinara make it wildly popular. Entry is restricted, requires a fee, and must be booked well in advance during summer; remember that beach mats are compulsory under your towels.
Evening
The evening marks the end of your weekend: after three full-on days, make your way back towards your departure point to pack your bags, stopping at an inland trattoria or agriturismo for a relaxed meal before heading home.
Top planning tips
- You'll need a car to explore between Castelsardo, Alghero, and Bosa. If you fly into Olbia or Alghero, hiring one is practically essential for the 45 km coastal route to Bosa.
- Access to Spiaggia La Pelosa is capped and carries a fee. Book your Spiaggia La Pelosa pass well in advance in summer, and bring a beach mat, which is mandatory under towels.
- Base yourself between Sassari and Alghero: choosing a central spot means you won't have to move your luggage every day.
- The historic centres of Bosa and Castelsardo are steep and cobbled. Park down below (by the river or seafront) and wear comfortable shoes for the climbs.
- For a three-day trip, allow roughly €180-220 per person for seafood meals, fuel, and admission tickets, excluding flights and accommodation.
Where to stay along the coast
Surrounded by nature, it makes a convenient base for exploring the coast and heading out towards Capo Caccia.
View on Booking →A four-star Hotel & SPA Riviera Castelsardo set just 10 metres from the water, with an on-site restaurant.
View on Booking →A three-star La Fattoria featuring an outdoor swimming pool and an on-site restaurant.
View on Booking →