AS rain and cold weather continue to batter Ireland, there may be no better time than now to jet off to a sunnier destination.
And Sardinia, which is located off the west of the Italian Peninsula, could be the perfect option.
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It is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea after Sicily, and one of the 20 regions of Italy.
With over 1,800km of unspoilt coastline, it is renowned for beautiful beaches, turquoise sea and fascinating rock formations.
The central mountainous region can get very cold in the winter, and it receives a regular amount of snowfall. But the coast is nice and mild.
Winter on the coast of Sardinia tends to be very mild, with average day temperatures of around 12C, which usually drop at night to around 5C to 8C.
During the month of December, on sunny days and during the peak hours of the day, temperatures can reach as high as 22C.
The duration of the flights from Dublin to Sardinia varies on the airport of arrival – as there are three airports located on the island.
Direct flights will take about 3 hours and 15 minutes – give or take but flights to Cagliari which is the most southern airport in Sardinia will take a little longer.
Ryanair flights from Dublin to Sardinia on November 30 with a return on December 1 start from €140 – but the flights involve a stopover.
MOST READ ON THE IRISH SUN
With beautiful museums, archaeological sites, churches, shopping opportunities and the thriving restaurant and nightlife scene, Sardinia is a fantastic destination even in the winter.
The price of a pint in Sardinia ranges from €3 to €5 – depending on the type of beer and the restaurant you are in.
One town in Sardinia where you can regularly count on winter sun in Alghero.
The small Catalan city boasts an incredible array of beaches, plenty of good restaurants and bars and shopping.
You should also take advantage of the weather to go hiking or biking in the Porto Conte area – a beautiful nature reserve with coastal trails and stunning views throughout.
Other top sights in Alghero that can be enjoyed throughout the year are the Capo Caccia area, which is perfect for walking and from where you can enjoy stunning sunsets or the Neptune Caves, which can be reached by boat from Alghero.
‘REALLY BEAUTIFUL BEACH’
Another way the stunning spot can be reached is via the Escala del Cabirol, which in Catalan means “Roe Dear’s Staircase” – a series of more than 600 steps.
Head north-west from the center of Alghero for just a few kilometers, and you’ll discover Maria Pia beach (Spiaggia di Maria Pia).
The beautiful beach is 1200 meters long and faces southwest, featuring excellent views of the small settlement of Fertilia, the Alghero Bay, and the tiny island named Isola della Maddalenetta, situated 1.5 kilometers off the coast.
And some visitors took to TripAdvisor to praise the stunning spot.
One said: “Really beautiful beach with crystal clear warm water. The sand is snow white and the water is incredible.
“A must see if you are in Alghero.”
Another said: “My favourite part is the entrance, where you have to go through a pine forest. It’s magical.
“And then the white sand and giant dunes.
“It is among the best beaches in Sardinia. If you don’t want to walk there you can take a taxi or the local bus.
“The beach has all necessities, a bathroom, and bars to refresh.”
And Sardinia hosts various festivals even in winter.
Attend the Sant’Efisio procession in Cagliari or the Sartiglia in Oristano, where traditional equestrian events and colorful costumes are on display.
Sailing in Sardinia has been described as “magnificent”, with calm azure waters, warm temperatures and beautiful coastlines.
You can easily rent a boat whilst on your holiday and the island of Sardinia lends itself to a sailing trip or two during your vacation.
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