Guide to San Pantaleo

'An authentic village in a stunning natural setting, San Pantaleo lets you in on hidden Sardinia.'

For an exquisitely pretty village, San Pantaleo has a surprisingly surreal setting. Set against an overhanging granite rock, this charming village at first looks out of place amid its rugged surrounds. Once settled here though, you'll soon realise it's perfectly positioned for one of those bit-of-everything kind of holidays. Separated from the glamorous goings-on the Costa Smeralda but near enough to sample them when you want, it's a piece of authentic Sardinia set in territory ripe for exploring.
Here, stone-built cottages rub shoulders along crooked, cobbled streets. Tranquillity blankets the lanes. And in the peaceful main square, locals and visitors discuss the day ahead over froth-topped cappuccinos.
This is something of an artists' community, so along with the usual shops and amenities, you'll find arty galleries around every corner. Browsing around them and checking the menus displayed by the village's fine restaurants is a great way to spend a morning, especially when finished with an aperitivo in the elegant square. And be sure to visit the square again for the village's lively weekly market.
By day, head for the breathtaking sandy beaches of the Costa Smeralda or take a boat to the stunning grottoes lacing the coastline. Alternatively, explore the bizarre rock formations in the surrounding myrtle-scented landscapes. They've made the area a favourite of artists and film makers - the James Bond movie 'The Spy Who Loved Me' was shot here. And if you're a history or nature buff, visit Arzachena to wonder at the aeons-old stone monuments built by the island's ancient Nuraghic peoples, including a temple where sacrifices were once made.

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