Italy with the kids: Sardinia

Sardinia is known as one of Europe’s chic and stylish holiday islands, filled with marinas and boutique hotels visited by celebrities and the mediterranean elite. However, as affluent as parts of Italy’s autonomous Island are, it is also a great place to go with the kids. Italians love children, and Sardinia is no different and has plenty of resorts and children’s activities spread around the island; perfect for families this summer.

Flight times & Weather

Flight times from Dublin (via Ryanair, who fly once a week) is around 4 hours. Weather in the summer months is hot and sticky with minimal chance of rain. Temperatures can be in the late 20s or early 30s, with 12 hours of sunshine per day. Remember: July is extremely hot and humid, and peak tourist season so can be very crowded. The island has a lot of ferry routes for those planning to travel through Italy or France. Car hire is also very competitive with good rates, so shop around.

Is it good with kids

Because of Island life, watersport activities are everywhere and kids and parents can enjoy them in the many family beach resorts all over the island. There are kids’ clubs, babysitting services, beautiful sandy beaches, stone animals, water parks, caves, sand dunes and lots restaurants and bars for parents.

What to do

Beaches

Sardinia has long stretches of white sandy beaches, rugged cliffs and clear blue shallow seas; perfect for families. There are plenty to choose from and when travelling around the island you will discover your own perfect bit of paradise hidden away down a country road.

Here’s a few of our favorites: popular beaches include the Costa Rei, Costa Smerelda, Cagliari’s beach and Baia Chia. Each one offers an ideal location for relaxation in the hot sun with the family, and many include water sport activities.

National Parks

The Gennargentu National Park is a perfect place to get back to nature. It is home to golden eagles, with trekking and trails for adventurous families (who have older kids) and stunning coastal and mountainous views.

Horse Riding

Sardinians are very proud of their horse heritage and horse riding is very popular there. There are quiet woodlands, impressive coastline trails and beach riding to choose from. Or if you have younger kids or are a beginner, you can stay in the stables and have lessons.

Ancient Ruins - Italy’s Stonehenge

The Barumini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has stone villages from the prehistoric era. Away from the busy beaches, this is a perfect day trip out with the family to discover ancient european civilisations mysterious past and way of life.

Little Green Train

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