Small Boutique hotels in Sardinia

Sardinia is not just your average holiday island. Yes, it has the white sandy beaches, the azure waters, the mild climate; but Sardinia also has an air of mystery, a sense of something ancient and wild... Prehistoric remains dating back to 250,000 BC have been found on the island and evidence of trade from the Stone Age.

Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and sits in the centre of its western half. For centuries it has absorbed the influences of explorers and traders, ensuring a unique identity. Although constitutionally part of Italy, Sardinia only lost its independence in the 19th Century and has its own Regional Council, Government and President.

Among the historic sights worth visiting on Sardinia are the nuraghi, ancient stone towers found across the island with the Su Nuraxi di Barumini complex declared a World Heritage Site. Also the numerous grottoes and gorges including Neptune's Grotto, Bue Marino Grotto, the Grotto of Ispinigoli and Su Gorropu Gorge.

The capital of Sardinia is Cagliari, a cosmopolitan city with some excellent seafood restaurants and lovely boutique hotels. Other small luxury hotels can be found in the old fishing town of Alghero, which dates back to the 12th Century, and near the picturesque village of San Pantaleo, famed for its quirky traditions as much as its idyllic location.