Tirreno Resort

In the foothills of the Supramonte mountains on Sardinia’s rugged east coast lies the photogenic medieval town of Orosei – one of the island’s most beguiling destinations, replete with ornate churches, cosy piazzas and cobbled streets lined with traditional stone houses. Venture beyond the town itself, and you’ll quickly be immersed in some of the most spectacular nature Sardinia has to offer.

Here, in the coastal section of the Parco Nazionale del Golfo di Orosei e del Gennargentu (Sardinia’s largest national park), is an array of pristine beaches and hidden coves fringed by oak, juniper and eucalyptus forests and towering limestone cliffs. It’s an ideal place for swimming, snorkelling, canoeing, or simply basking in the sunshine and taking in the idyllic scenery. 

As well as the abundance of gorgeous beaches nearby, Orosei is a gateway to many fantastic hiking trails, particularly in the area around Mount Tiscali, the Lanaitho Valley and Gola di Gorropu, which is home to a vast array of wildlife, awe-inspiring chasms, and even the remains of an ancient village dating back to the Nuragic civilization. Just to the south, meanwhile, is the Grotta del Bue Marino – a hauntingly beautiful cave that’s only accessible by boat, and well worth visiting on a day trip. 

If you’re drawn to the idea of staying somewhere that’s a little off the beaten track, steeped in history and surrounded by wild, unspoilt nature, Orosei should certainly be on your travel radar.