Cagliari is the capital of the Mediterranean’s second largest island, Sardinia - an island of rich history, wild landscapes and unique identity. Since the arrival of the Greeks and Phoenicians it has been invaded and colonised by countless nationalities, until being declared a semi-autonomous region of Italy in 1948; its contours take you from spectacular beaches through beautiful gorges to forested highlands, and its people, the Sardi, having passed through the hands of various conquerors, exude an unmistakable warmth and individuality. Cagliari itself is the perfect launch pad for your Sardinia experience. Despite heavy WWII bombing it still boasts Roman and medieval ruins, a bustling port, a beautiful beach and rich marshland where flamingoes paint the landscape pink. Do as the locals and sit down with a plate of bottarga – pressed tuna roe over hot spaghetti – and you’ll soon become part of a world where the simplest things in life are often the best.
