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"We pass from one tranquil bay of shallow amethystine water to another, with wiry herbs for ever on the landward side of us, and faint forms of mountainous islets rising from the haze of the sea."

Edwards, Charles, "Sardinia and the Sardes" London, Richard Bentley and Son 1889

Gallura is a beautiful region situated on the north-east side of the Island of Sardinia, the granite rock cliffs and splendid coastal view follow you all the way.
The archipelago of La Maddalena constitutes the starting point of an enchanting sea-shore trip, Costa Smeralda, that Vanity Fair readers know even too well, follows few km away, the island of Tavolara, with its wild sheep, draws a pretty landscape opposite to Olbia, the main city of the region, till the resort of San Teodoro in the south, where families and young tourists find their share of fun and relax.
But the sandy beaches and the sun are not everything in this place, the interior mountainous spots offer the traveller most of its beauty; untamed land covered in maquis and a wealth of forest, traditional houses, hospitality and mamma's typical food seems like a dream compare to the glamour of the VIP coast.

By air
International airport of Olbia is conveniently situated just outside Olbia city.
Sardinia Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport website http://www.geasar.it/eng/airport

Please note lists below are only to be used as indication.
For updated and detailed info, please contact airlines or ferry companies that provide the service.

Direct flights from UK to Olbia 2010

You can also arrive at Alghero or Cagliari from various cities in UK.

Flights from other countries
You can also arrive to Olbia airport via many European cities, Germany is especially well connected.
This will be helpful in winter when there are less direct flights from UK.

By sea
You can reach Gallura by sea from various ports in mainland Italy.
Some people choose to come with their cars or campers by ferries.
Please contact ferry companies for more details.
Moby Lines, Tirrenia, SNCM

WHERE TO STAY
There are many hotels in Olbia and whole region of Gallura.
You can also rent appartments weekly, which is ideal for longer stays and families.

LANGUAGE
Although they have their own language, Sardo, most Sardinians speak Italian in everyday life.
English is only used in main tourist areas, and some may also speak German.
Nonetheless, Sardo is often used between local people, most likely in their own dialect, and you will see names of towns and local dishes are in Sardo.

ON THE ROAD
Public transport and taxis are not very common, so renting a car would be the ideal way to get around.
Make sure to brush up your driving skill though- you are in Italy!
If you are not in hurry, you will enjoy the most fascinating scenery in local roads.
Often the roads are narrow and old, with endless curves and hills, and very dark in the night.
Road signs are not very reliable, so always carry an updated map with you.
Outside cities and towns there are not many pedestrian passage, so be careful with pedestrians and cyclists.
Also, beware of flocks of sheep and cows, or even a tortoise that might be crossing the road!

FOOD & EATING OUT
Sardinia is a land of mountain and sea; you will find both meat and seafood, and of course delicious vegetables.
They also have particular varieties of wine and liquers- no wonder even the mainland Italians envy their rich culture of cuisine!
Try agriturismo where they serve local food and drinks that are available on that day.
You can also find pizzeria in every corner for a quick meal.
Some bars also serve hot and cold dishes.
Dinner time is late in the sunny side of Europe, restaurants open at 19:00 or later.

SHOPPING
Most shops close at 13:00 for lunch, reopen at 17:00 until 19:00 approximately.
Some shops may open only in summer.
Even in major super markets, you can find many local speciality food such as cheese, sausages, bottarga and various desserts.
If you are looking for gifts to bring back, look for Sardinian traditional crafts, such as carpets, tea towels, baskets, jewellery or knives.

WATER
Carrying mineral water is recommended, instead of tap water.
There are some examples of local Gallurese water;
Acqua Smeraldina
Acqua San Martino
Acqua San Pantaleo