Although the area around Olbia has been inhabited since the 8th century BC, the town was not actually founded until the 6th century BC. The Carthaginians decided on the location because of the natural harbour which created excellent access to Italy. The area’s export of corn served to make it economically very viable, and was its main source of income. The harbour is today used as the main access point to Sardinia for the many Italians who spend their holidays here. The area around the port has many bars and restaurants, giving credence to the town’s name, which means ‘happy town’. If you need a little bit of peace and quiet after the buzz of the bars, visit the little basilica on San Símplicio Piazza. This granite building is set back from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the town and is reputedly the most important historical building in Gallura. The church was contructed in the 11th and 12th centuries, and features columns that were rescued from destroyed Roman buildings. Even the font used for the holy water has been recycled – it used to be an urn containing ashes!

Olbia is located on the Costa Smeralda, one of the most beautiful stretches of coast on the Mediterranean. It is therefore a popular holiday destination for the rich and famous, but this fantastic area has much to offer the budget traveller also. A wild and rocky coast on the one hand, catering for the more active holidaymaker – excellent opportunities for hiking and climbing. On the other hand there are beautiful sandy beaches, ideal for long lazy days by the sea.

The rest of Sardinia is easily accessible from Olbia. The island offers many historical sites, with remnants of the many cultures that have passed through here. The Carthaginians, the Romans, and the Genoans have all left their traces – there are even examples of Spanish Baroque architecture to be found. But the Nuraghic civilisation was unique to Sardinia, and the mysterious structures they built are dotted all over the island. They are often situated in remote parts, so it is essential to get your own transport to see these. Failing that, the museums of Cagliari or Sassari have collections of artefacts left by this uniquely Sardinian culture.

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