DAY 1: WELCOME TO SARDINIA (OVERNIGHT IN TEMPIO DI PAUSANIA) 52 KM
Welcome to Olbia Airport! Once you've got your rental car, it's time to go on a journey to Tempio di Pausania. This first day is free to explore on your own. No fixed plans mean you can discover the city on your terms. Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 2: ALGHERO, CAPO CACCIA & BAIA DI PORTO CONTE (OVERNIGHT IN TEMPIO DI PAUSANIA) 250 KM
First breakfast at the hotel. This day is all about relaxation and exploration. You are free to take a refreshing swim at the beach or go on an adventure to Alghero, Capo Caccia, and Baia di Porto Conte.
Here's a suggested itinerary: Head to Alghero and its historical center, decorated with walls, Spanish towers, the Church of San Francesco, the Cathedral, and the Bousquet Walk. Consider a boat excursion to the Grotte di Nettuno, setting off from the port of Alghero. Drive up to the promontory of Capo Caccia and enjoy panoramic views at the bay of Porto Conte. On your way back, a stop at Palmavera Nuraghe is recommended for a visit. Drive back to your hotel with an overnight stay.
DAY 3: COSTA SMERALDA, PORTO CERVO & PORTO ROTONDO (OVERNIGHT IN TEMPIO DI PAUSANIA) 110 KM
Breakfast at the hotel. Today is all about embracing the spare time to relax and explore the beautiful surroundings. Whether you choose to take a refreshing swim or join an adventure to Costa Smeralda, the day is yours. Here's a suggested itinerary: Begin your exploration with a visit to "Il Nurago la Prisgiona" in the Municipality of Arzachena—a Bronze Age round tower, one of the 7000 scattered across the region. This culture holds a unique place in the Mediterranean, making it one of Sardinia's most significant archaeological monuments. Afterward, take a drive through the magical mountain village of San Pantaleo, known for its granite formations, en route to the emerald coast. Make a brief stop in San Pantaleo for a photo opportunity to capture the beauty of the moment. Continue your journey to Baia Sardinia, a trendy destination in Costa Smeralda, known for its stunning beaches. Along the panoramic route of Costa Smeralda, discover the numerous emerald-colored sand bays that inspired the founder, Karim Aga Khan, to transform this coastal strip into the holiday paradise of jet-set tourism. Conclude your day with a visit to the chic capital of Porto Cervo, where fashion boutiques, exclusive restaurants, and a bustling marina await. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.
DAY 4: CORSICA (OVERNIGHT STAY IN AJACCIO) 148 KM
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, set your sights on the picturesque island of Corsica. Start by driving to the charming harbor of Santa Teresa di Gallura in the extreme North of Sardinia. From there, go on for a ferry boat journey to Bonifacio. The one-hour ferry ride across the 13 km stretch between Corsica and Sardinia promises amazing views.
Bonifacio, with its rich history dating back to its founding between 823 and 833. Divided into a "Marina" quarter, a lower city, and an upper city settled on a promontory, Bonifacio offers breathtaking panoramas, especially on beautiful days when the Sardinian coast comes into view. Hop on the tourist train to reach the upper part, where a guided walking tour awaits for about an hour.
Next stop: Ajaccio! Take the route towards Sartène, and don't miss the famous lion of Roccapina and its dreamy cove along the way. Once in Sartène, start your city tour at the Place de la Liberation, dominated by the war memorial and the impressive Sainte Marie church. Cross the Santa Anna district, a medieval miracle with small paved alleys, stairs, passages, and arches, adorned with gray granite houses. Make sure to visit the Corsican Prehistory Museum on rue Croce.
Continue your journey toward Propriano, a town exuding charm with its small marina. The north shore of the Gulf of Valinco unrolls with remarkable sites. Between Olmeto and Propriano, take the route on National Road 196, heading to Olmeto-Plage and following the coast to the Taravo bridge. Follow D 757 to reach the prehistoric station of Filitosa, a synthesis of Corsica's historical origins spanning the Neolithic, megalithic, Torrean, and Roman periods.
Wind your way through Calvèse and Sollacaro before rejoining RN 196 toward the Ajaccio area. Overnight stay at the hotel.
DAY 5: CALANCHE OF PIANA AND PORTO (OVERNIGHT STAY IN AJACCIO) 170 KM
Get ready for another lovely day after your breakfast at the hotel. Today's adventure takes you to the Calanche of Piana and the town of Porto. Begin your journey by driving to Sagone, a spot perched on an outcrop. Along the way, catch sight of the village of Cargèse, affectionately known as "la grecque," a testament to its Greek colony origins dating back to the XVII Century. What makes Cargèse truly unique is the presence of two churches facing each other—one Greek Orthodox and the other Roman Catholic. As you turn through the narrow streets, treat yourself to local delights like Bastelle, vegetable tartlets, or Ambruciate, tartlets made with Brocciu cheese. From Cargèse, continue your drive towards Piana, a gem listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. Settled high, it offers incredible views of the Gulf of Porto and the peninsulas of Senino and Scandola. Take on the indirect route leading to Porto, allowing the rugged coastline of pink granite rock to contrast beautifully with the deep blue sea and vibrant green Maquis. Be sure to pull over at one of the car parks along the Calanche to explore the exquisite rock formations.
In Porto, consider hopping aboard the passenger boats that, until October, explore the reserve of Scandola. Witness grandiose landscapes shaped by the eruption of an ancient volcano and discover the cove of Girolata with its charming Genoese fort. This sanctuary is a haven for diverse wildlife, including osprey, bearded vultures, and dolphins.
For those drawn to the mountains, head towards Evisa, a picturesque village where walking trails intersect. Here, you'll find one of Corsica’s most beautiful forests of Laricio pine, offering a natural escape.
On your return journey to Ajaccio via Vico, experience the warmth and liveliness of this Corsican village. Nestled in a mountainous setting, Vico boasts adorable little squares, including La Sposata (the wife), famous for its legend. Don't miss the Saint-François convent on the road to Arbori, featuring an XVII Century church housing the oldest wooden statue of Christ in Corsica (XIVth).
Return to the hotel for an overnight stay, filled with the magic of Corsica's landscapes and legends.
DAY 6: CORTE AND THE CENTER OF CORSICA (OVERNIGHT IN AJACCIO) 161 KM
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we explore the beating heart of Corsica, equidistant from the enchanting cities of Bastia and Ajaccio. This territory is a true mosaic of Corsican traditions, steeped in history and culture, boasting awe-inspiring landscapes that promise a plethora of outdoor activities.
Our journey leads us to Corte, the historic capital of Corsica, founded in 1755 by Pasquale Paoli, a luminary of the Corsican Nation, an Enlightenment and the visionary man behind the University of Corte. This city, filled with the echoes of its glorious past, is crowned by the Citadel's unique inland structure. The Eagle's Nest, a breathtaking viewpoint atop the Citadel, treats you to panoramic vistas of the Restonica and Tavignanu valleys.
Traveling into the Venachese, or the country of Venice, with a tale of nine villages nestled amidst forests of larici pines and beeches. This region, nourishing ancient traditions and serving as the hub of pastoralism and transhumance, offers an initiatory journey into culinary and artisanal richness. The Venachese, with its microcosmic wonders, presents diverse landscapes—steep peaks, high plateaus, sumptuous valleys, and several waterways, inviting both self-transcendence and contemplative meditation.
Fear not, as these landscapes aren't reserved solely for seasoned athletes. Countless trails, suitable for both walkers and families, invite everyone to admire the untamed allure of nature. Summer comes with options like hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Refresh yourself in the rivers of Restonica, Tavignanu, or Verghellu valleys, complete with pleasant picnic and relaxation spots.
Thrill-seekers can be satisfied in canyoning or zip-lining, while the options via Ferrata or tree climbing beckon the adventurous. Dive into Culture and History with a visit to the Museum of Anthropology of Corsica, based in the Serrurier barracks, offering glimpses into the rich Corsican heritage. It also provides access to the terraces of the Citadel of Corte, its belvedere, and its Castle. The FRAC, located below the Padua barracks, transforms with its dynamic contemporary art exhibitions. For a hands-on experience, the Fab Lab at Palazzu Naziunale invites you to create a souvenir using local materials. Explore the Heritage Trail in Corte, unraveling the city's history through its iconic landmarks. In the Venacais, "I trè paesi" Heritage Trail connects Casanova, Riventosa, and Poghju di Venaco, revealing agro-pastoral wonders. Near Vivario, the Vechju Bridge, designed by Gustave Eiffel, stands as a testament to artistry from the late 19th century. The last destination is the Route des Sens, leading you through the region to meet small producers and artisans, offering authentic delights for your taste buds and eyes. Return to Ajaccio, where a comfortable overnight stay awaits at the hotel.
DAY 7: AJACCIO (OVERNIGHT IN IN OLBIA AREA) - 130 KM
Breakfast at the hotel. Get ready for a visit to Ajaccio, Corsica's most stylish port city. Picture elegant boulevards like the Cours Napoleon winding their way around old townhouses, painted in delicate pastel shades. The city takes pride in being the birthplace of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, whose stone likeness graces every corner.
Explore the historic Maison Bonaparte, the birth home of the French Emperor, and discover the Fesch Museum. Home to European paintings spanning the XIVth to XIX Centuries, it boasts the second-largest collection of primitive Italian paintings after the Musée du Louvre. Next to the museum is the Imperial Chapel, the final resting place of the Bonaparte family.
Go on for a drive to Cap Parata, where panoramic views of the Sanguinaires Islands await. The afternoon adventure takes you to Bonifacio, and a journey awaits as you board and arrive in Santa Teresa in Sardinia. Finally, drive to your hotel in the Olbia area, where you can stay overnight.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE (AIRPORT OLBIA/CAGLIARI) - 273 KM/10 KM
Breakfast at the hotel and drive to Olbia airport. Release the car, marking the end of our services with a heartfelt "Grazie e arrivederci!" Thank you and until we meet again!
