When you think of Sardinia, chances are you think of the glorious sunsets over golden sandy beaches, with restaurants serving up the finest seafood, good wine and basically just a picture-postcard view wherever you go. Orosei is no exception to this vision, with its terracotta tiles and rugged mountain backdrop, you’ll find no shortage of picturesque sights to sit back and gaze in awe at.
However, this is not all the charming town has to offer. Due to Sardinia’s location, you’ll find the island packed with historic and cultural attractions that leave no interested traveller uninspired. Orosei is home to one of the finest old towns anywhere in the Mediterranean, with things to see and do that take you away from the beach and the hedonistic pleasures available here.
Below are some of the ones I think are most appealing to cultured travellers who like something a little more nuanced.
Explore the Culture of Beautiful Orosei
Visit the Remarkable Churches
The churches of Orosei are absolutely beautiful as well as being full of historical significance. You’ll want to make sure that any walking tours of the old town take in the Chiesa di San Giacomo Maggiore. This is a breath-taking building with a belltower that rivals any you’ll see in these parts. The façade is also a wonderful sight to behold.
Other churches feature incredible altars and Christian artworks, which are well worth a look, even if none quite match the majesty of San Giacomo. In fact, it’s perhaps the amazing variety of the churches here that make it such an interesting part of a visit.
See the Castle
Within the confines of the old town there is a building that absolutely stands out, because the castle has a high tower that draws attention from multiple vantages throughout the streets. It’s a great example of medieval architecture, and something you won’t see in every town like this.
Don Giovanni Guiso Museum
This museum is a curiosity that always leaves its visitors interested and piqued to learn more about a new subject. Home to a huge collection of models of theatres from around Europe, there are also a number of fantastic costumes from the past few hundred years. It’s well worth a look for those interested in theatre and fashion.
Revel in the Historic Streets
As you walk the streets of the old town you’ll be surrounded by history everywhere. It’s unavoidable here, and really adds to the atmosphere of the place. A major site of habitation for thousands of years, it was from the year 900 or so that things really started taking off. From then to now it has seen many changes – from agricultural work and marble quarrying, through to tourism of the present day. It still hangs onto its heritage proudly, though, and if you visit at the right time you may be able to attend one of its many festivals and celebrations.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of different kinds of places to stay for those looking for something that caters to both their sense of refinement and their need for cultural enjoyment.
Albergo Diffuso Mannios has a real sense of history to it, being set in an old stone building, with a perfect little balcony to enjoy the comings and goings of the daily life of the town. It’s also got its own private beach!
Club Hotel Marina Beach draws on Moorish architecture to provide a stunning backdrop to your trip. It’s close to the beach and it has relaxed decor and a friendly atmosphere throughout.
Residence Marina Palace is perfect for those who want to sample some of the local ingredients available at the markets. It’s a self-catering apartment that boasts some very pretty Sardinian décor and everything you’ll need to recreate the comfort of home.
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How to Get There
The best way to get to Orosei is to fly into Cagliari Airport and then take the short airport transfer to the town. You can fly direct from major UK airports, including London and Manchester, with a flight time of between two and half and three hours. British Airways flights offer a change of pace from the budget carriers who also make the voyage.
I highly recommend booking an airport transfer to take you from Cagliari Airport. Transfer types are outlined below, but a shuttle or private car makes this journey a lot more straightforward than navigating the airport taxi queue or taking public transport. Why waste valuable time? With a journey of around 200 kilometres, travelling by road is the best option.
Types of Transfer
It’s a basic travelling truth that organising an airport transfer can be a minefield. So, depending on budget and convenience you’re probably going to want to take a specific mode of transport when you arrive at Cagliari Airport. Transfer types are varied, but all have their merits.
Taxi:
You might want to consider the humble airport taxi. Cagliari Airport to Orosei is a fairly long trip, so taking it in the comfort and privacy of a pre-booked taxi can be the perfect way to get around.
Shuttle Bus:
If you’re looking for something with budget as a priority, then a shared shuttle bus offers a reliable airport transfer. Cagliari Airport to Orosei is a very relaxing and picturesque journey and you might even pick up a travel tip or two from your friendly driver.
Private Transfer:
For those interested in making the trip in style, then I suggest booking your airport transfer in the form of a private car. What could be a better way to spend your mini-road trip than in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly and knowledgeable local driver?
Minibus Transfer:
The minibus is perfect for groups or those looking to partner up with other groups to save money. They’re comfortable, but most importantly they offer a very economical way to travel between destinations.
Choosing the Right Transfer
Now that I’ve explained a few of the main types of airport transfer, you are better equipped to make your decision. It’s usually true that cost and convenience play the biggest parts in most people’s decision making process and, with that in mind, I’ve highlighted the options that are best for each consideration.
Cost: To save money, then the obvious choice is to go for the mini bus or maybe the shuttle bus. These are also good options if you’re looking to meet other travellers or are travelling with a larger group. They’re the most affordable way to travel by far, but they still take far less time than navigating the journey by public transport.
Convenience: If convenience is king for you, then a private driver should be considered. Not only is it the most comfortable and luxurious way to make the journey, you will have every opportunity to ask questions and learn from the local knowledge of the driver. The pre-booked taxi offers a similar, if slightly more cost-effective, option, and takes all the hassle out of getting a taxi sorted once you’re at the airport.
About Shuttle Direct
Every day, at Shuttle Direct we provide thousands of travellers with convenient and interesting journeys, taking in the sights while in comfort and luxury. Our drivers are always experienced professionals who know how to put the customer first. We’ve always prided ourselves on our excellent reputation, and it all comes down to getting you from A to B in the most cost-effective, comfortable and convenient way .
