Exploring Sardinia: A Photographic Journey Through Scenic Coastlines

A photographer journeys across Sardinia, revealing the island's coastal beauty, local interactions, and the sense of separateness it holds from mainland Italy.

As the sun gently shone over the picturesque island of Sardinia, I embarked on a road trip that promised not only breathtaking views but also encounters with the local culture. My adventure began in Cuglieri, a quaint commune nestled along the western coast. Upon my arrival, I observed the slow rhythm of a sleepy Sunday afternoon, marked by two women—one beneath the shade of a low building, and another, an elderly lady clad in black, responding from her balcony above. This first glimpse of Sardinian life set a warm tone for what lay ahead.

Continuing my exploration, I met three elderly gentlemen—Antonio, Giovanni Maria, and Renzo—awkwardly perched on a bench. The spirited Antonio quickly made me feel at home, exclaiming, “Ah, anche tu isolana sei!” with a hearty grin. This playful remark highlighted the island's unique identity, where locals often refer to mainland Italy as "il continente," implying that the gap of 120 miles feels more like an expansive ocean.

My partner and I had charted out a straightforward itinerary: landing in Cagliari, the island's capital, we planned to rent a car and circle the island counterclockwise, prioritizing coastal roads. Our ambition extended beyond mere driving; we aimed to swim, hike, and explore the smaller islands dotting the coastline. Sardinia boasts an impressive 1,150 miles of shoreline, though not every stretch is reachable.

From the serene beach of Capo Carbonara to the rugged paths of the Regional Natural Park of Porto Conte, this journey around Sardinia promised to reveal not just astonishing landscapes, but also the heart and soul of a place that feels both familiar and distinctly separate—a jewel in the Mediterranean that invites exploration and connection.