Palau, Sardinia - Mediterranean Cruises

Take a journey by train to admire the beautiful countryside of Sardinia and gain a contrasting impression of the island.

Travelling by coach, enjoy the sights as you travel from Palau to the Arzachena Railway Station. At Arzachena, you’ll board the train for a scenic journey through the Sardinian countryside.

The train will stop near a lake between Arzachena and Tempio. Here, you’ll be offered a light refreshment of local snacks accompanied by wine.

Your train will stop in Tempio, where you can visit the Railway Station and discover the capital of Gullura, Tempio Pausanis. Many new buildings now shelter this charming old town. A short stroll from the central Piazza Gallura is the cathedral, founded in the 15th century and rebuilt in the 1800’s. Alternatively, you may wish to spend your time in Tempio relaxing with a coffee in one of the local cafés.

Your return journey from Tempio to Palau will be by coach.

Note: Guests must be able to negotiate the four steps onto and off the train. There is also a moderate amount of walking involved in Tempio; flat comfortable shoes are recommended. Shops will be closed in the afternoon, on Sundays and in low season. A diesel train engine will be used and is a style typical of Sardinia. Please note that there is no air-conditioning on the train and traditional hard wooden bench-style seating is used. Guests are advised that the order of this itinerary may be reversed.

The delightful island of La Maddalena is best explored on foot. Join your guide for an insight into the town’s highlights.

Enjoy the coastal views as you cruise out of Palau on the short ferry ride to La Maddalena.

Your guide will acquaint you with the charms of the small tourist town of La Maddalena. Enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere as you stroll along the narrow streets. You’ll visit the town’s church and learn of its historical importance as well as Nelson’s Little Museum. Nelson may never have set foot on the island, but you’ll learn about his links with La Maddalena and see exhibits, which were given as a token of esteem for the ‘worthy inhabitants’.

After your walking tour of the town’s highlights, you’ll be offered a welcome refreshment in a nearby café before having some free time to shop, relax and absorb the atmosphere or explore further on your own.

At an agreed time, you’ll meet your guide again for the return ferry ride to Palau and the ship.

Note: Guests are reminded that this is a walking tour, which may include some uneven and cobblestone surfaces. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended.

The islands of the Archipelago Maddalenino resemble an array of jigsaw pieces surrounded by natural beauty. Relax and enjoy.

Make yourself comfortable aboard your boat and admire the beauty of the landscape, the marvelous translucent sea and the blue waters reflecting the beautiful surroundings.

Enjoy a relaxing cruise around these beautiful islands, notably Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria and Razzoli, admiring the untamed splendour of nature and the spring-like clarity of the water. You’ll see for yourself the beauty of this region, which has attracted holidaymakers for centuries with its alluring landscapes and inviting waters.

At either Spargi or Santa Maria, a stop will be made to allow you to take a wonderfully refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters.

During your cruise, you’ll be offered some welcome refreshments of local wine, accompanied by tasty regional snacks.

Note: There is a limited amount of walking, however guests must be able to negotiate steps on to and off the boat. Flat, non-slip shoes are recommended. In order to reach the outdoor seating on the upper deck of the boat you will be required to climb a steep ladder. Please remember swimwear, a towel and sunscreen if wishing to swim. Please note that the swimming stop is subject to weather conditions and may be omitted. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Known internationally as Costa Smeralda, this area has been developed for the elite by the elite.

Your sightseeing tour will take you along the stunning Costa Smeralda from Palau to Arzachena and San Pantaleo.

As you approach Porto Cervo, the unofficial capital of this area, you’ll see the picturesque Bay of Foxes (Cala di Volpe) with the famous Starwood Hotel ‘Cala Di Volpe’ and the Pevero Golf Course - a masterpiece designed by Robert Trent Jones.

Porto Cervo is one of the most exclusive yacht harbours in the Mediterranean. Enjoy some free time to browse in the boutiques with their designer jewellery and fashions by Gucci, Versace and Cartier. Or why not relax over a coffee or an ice-cream and do a spot of people watching.

Leaving Porto Cervo, you’ll continue to Baja Sardinia, another famous resort. A short stop will be made for refreshments.

Note: Coaches are required to park outside the villages of Baja Sardinia and Porto Cervo. This necessitates a walk of ten minutes involving inclines and steps. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Toilet facilities in Sardinia are limited and are usually continental style. Please note that many shops close in the afternoon, on Sundays and in low season.

Take a trip to the charming island of La Maddalena and enjoy the small island atmosphere and contrasts of stunning scenery.

From the port of Palau, you’ll take the short ferry ride to the delightful island of La Maddalena.

La Maddalena is the largest of the Maddalena Islands. The island has a triangular shape with jagged coasts of red rocks contrasting with the azure waters, which create a mesmerising myriad of colours. The history of the island began with the Romans and its name underwent several changes before it settled on La Maddalena. Its strategic position has turned the island into a place of shelter and a maritime traffic crossing point. In 1793 Napoleon’s ships attacked the island; the British fleet of Horatio Nelson took refuge here in 1804; and 139 years later Mussolini was held prisoner on the island.

You’ll take a scenic drive around this enchanting island and your guide will tell you of its fascinating past as you enjoy the sights as they unfold before you.

Back in the main town of La Maddalena, you’ll enjoy a welcome refreshment before some free time for independent exploration.

Note: Walking on this tour is optional in the main town and may be over some uneven and cobblestoned surfaces. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Guests must be able to negotiate the steps onto and off the coach and the ferry.

Enjoy the scenery and discover some of the region’s treasures that have acquired notoriety amongst jet-setting visitors.

Enjoy a delightful panoramic tour of the Emerald Coast, named from the depth of colour in the sea. You’ll encounter an area of coastline, which is exceptionally attractive and boasts beaches of outstanding natural beauty. Rich in Mediterranean undergrowth, the charming coves, with names such as the Bay of Foxes are backed by villas and hotels of sheer splendour and luxury.

The route will take you from Palau to Arzachena and San Pantaleo, passing by Capriccioli and Romazzino. A short stop will also be made at the village of Baja Sardinia.

During the stop at the unofficial capital, Porto Cervo, there will be time to stroll at leisure, admire the beautiful people and gaze at the latest fashions offered in the chic and elegant boutiques.

A typical Sardinian luncheon, accompanied by local wine and coffee, will be served at a nearby restaurant.

Note: Coaches are required to park outside the villages of Baja Sardinia and Porto Cervo. This necessitates a walk of ten minutes involving inclines and steps. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Toilet facilities in Sardinia are limited and are usually continental. Please note that many shops close in the afternoon, on Sundays and in low season. In peak season the route from Palau is dependent on local traffic conditions and may differ.