Sardinia is one of the most sought-after summer tourist destinations not only in Italy but worldwide. The reason is clear: its very long coastline hides secluded coves, picturesque seaside villages, and stunning beaches.
The north-eastern coast is a must-stop for more demanding and fashion-conscious travelers and largely falls within the province of Olbia. However, starting from this city in north-eastern Gallura, you can organize a tour to discover villages that are perhaps less well-known but just as charming and more authentic.
Renting a car to visit the villages around Olbia
If you are wondering which means of transport is best for exploring the most beautiful villages near Olbia, forget about expensive taxis as well as trains and buses. On holiday, when everything should be relaxed and unhurried, nobody likes being tied to schedules and connections just to get around and discover more places.
The best solution is to rent a car at Olbia Airport from Ellepi rental agency, which, thanks to its long experience in the sector, will offer you expertise and professionalism.
The Ellepi vehicle fleet is wide and varied, allowing you to choose the car that best suits your needs, or even a scooter if you plan to cover short distances while enjoying the salty air on your face and the wind in your hair.
The 6 most beautiful villages near Olbia
1. Calangianus
Whether it’s a station wagon, a sedan, or a small car, pick up your vehicle and set off to explore the surroundings of Olbia, starting with the village of Calangianus, located in the heart of the Regional Natural Park of Mount Limbara, in a lush basin dotted with oaks, strawberry trees, vineyards, and cork oak forests.
Here you can visit the Cork Museum, housed in the 18th-century Capuchin Convent, where cork artifacts and ancient machinery are displayed. If you arrive in Calangianus in July, you will find yourself right in the middle of the Cork Stopper Day, featuring woodland picnics, tastings of excellent local wines, and interesting demonstrations on cork production.
After visiting the many churches in the village, especially the Church of Santa Giusta and the Church of Santa Croce, which features interiors entirely made of granite, leave your car behind and enjoy a short hike along the Bau Mela stream to reach the Tomb of the Giants of Pascareddha, a Nuragic site located at the foot of Monte di Deu.
2. Aggius
Awarded the Orange Flag by the Italian Touring Club, the village of Aggius stands at 514 meters above sea level, at the foot of the Aggius Mountains, not far from the evocative Valley of the Moon. Its historic center is shaped in dark granite, softened by the brightly colored murals you will see on walls and shutters.
Visit the Museum of Banditry to discover the story of a famous bandit who roamed this area in the 19th century, known as the “Mute of Gallura”, who also inspired a well-known novel.
To learn more about Aggius’ culture and traditions, head to the Ethnographic Museum “Oliva Carta Cannas”, dedicated in particular to traditional costumes, ancient trades, and the Coro del Galletto. It was Gabriele D’Annunzio who gave this name to the Gallura singers who, during Holy Week, parade wearing traditional costumes.
3. San Pantaleo
Just over 20 km from Olbia lies this small village which, with its colorful houses, overlooks the Gulf of Cugnana. As you stroll through its streets, you will immediately notice the bohemian atmosphere that pervades the village, with ateliers and art galleries nestled within granite buildings.
If you are in San Pantaleo on a Thursday, you will have the chance to visit the vibrant San Pantaleo Market, a small hippie-style world where you can purchase handcrafted items.
After visiting the village, including its curious rural church dedicated to San Pantaleo, if you feel the need to relax in nature, you can take a swim at the beautiful Rena Bianca Beach overlooking the islets of Mortorio and Soffi, or set off on a walk towards the Cugnana massif.
4. Arzachena
Nature, history, and culture make Arzachena one of the most beautiful villages to visit near Olbia, far from the glamour found in nearby Porto Cervo or Golfo Aranci.
The village mainly consists of typical rural dwellings known as stazzi, among which stand out the old Church of Santa Maria della Neve and the Church of Santa Lucia. To reach the latter, you will climb a colorfully painted staircase.
At the Michele Ruzittu Archaeological Museum, you can closely observe a series of valuable artifacts from the sites surrounding Arzachena, from the Albucciu nuraghe to the Giants’ Tombs of Coddu Vecchiu. These are located just a short distance from the La Prisgiona nuraghe, which still preserves the remains of hundreds of huts and towers.
5. Santa Teresa di Gallura
This village overlooks the famous Strait of Bonifacio, beyond which lies Corsica. Its symbol is undoubtedly the Longonsardo Tower, built by the Spanish in the 16th century near the pink sands of Rena Bianca Beach.
From Santa Teresa di Gallura, where you can also visit the ancient Church of Santa Reparata dating back to 1114 and the oldest tree in the world (head to the village of Luras to admire this natural Methuselah), reach the important archaeological site of Lu Brandali, which still preserves the remains of around 50 burials, giants’ tombs, and huts built between the 14th and 10th centuries BC.
From the village, you can also hike towards the Capo Testa lighthouse, located at the top of the homonymous promontory, from whose panoramic summit you can admire the Strait of Bonifacio.
6. San Teodoro
The village of San Teodoro is located just over 30 km south of Olbia. By hopping on the Trenino Teodorino, you can explore the town center, especially Piazza Gallura, lined with artisan shops, and above all reach the most beautiful beaches surrounding the village, from Lu Impostu to
