SARDINIA SMALL GROUP TOUR
Trip Highlights
Private Sailing Boat to Maddalena Island with Lunch
Four-Wheel Drive and Lunch in the Shepherd’s Hut
Sunset Tour of Nora’s Ruins and Michelin-Star Dinner
Visit Su-Nuraxi, Santa Teresa di Gallura, Porto Cervo and more
Cooking Class at a Gallura Farmhouse
Lunch in a Cannonau and Vermentino Winery
Scenic Drive along the Orosei Coast
Go to the full list of What’s Included in the tour package
Trip BASICS
Learn more about our Small Group Tours To Italy
Learn more about Meet Piemonte’s team
Sardinia SMALL GROUP TOUR PACKAGE
Our Sardinia Small Group Tour is an 8-day journey through a land filled with wonders and enchantments. Starting in Cagliari, we will journey to the pristine beaches of the north and traverse the rugged central mountain ranges, enjoying luxury accommodations and exclusive activities along the way.
With only 6 to 12 guests led by a local guide, this luxury trip includes visits to the iconic Su-Nuraxi nuragic site, the murals of Orgosolo, Santa Teresa di Gallura, Porto Cervo, and many other locations that reveal the island’s unique mystique and spirit of independence.
After exploring Cagliari’s four historic districts, we will drive to the nearby Phoenician and Roman archaeological site of Nora at sunset, followed by a Michelin-star dinner by the sea.
This Sardinia Small Group Tour continues with two nights in a country-chic hotel in the remote and wild Barbagia region, surrounded by karst springs, valleys, and caves. A four-wheel drive, followed by an optional guided hike, will take us to a local shepherd’s hut where we partake in a rustic yet traditional meal cooked exclusively for our guests over an open fire.
Let the allure of northern Sardinia’s Emerald Coast, with its crystal-clear waters, rocky coves, and secluded pink sand bays, frame a spectacular day trip on a private sailing boat to the Maddalena archipelago, complete with an al-fresco lunch onboard.
Discover Sardinia’s renowned wine production in a family-owned winery and master the art of cooking from a local host who will share the ancient origins of the island’s rich culinary heritage.
With our exclusive Sardinia Small Group Tour—an experience difficult to replicate independently—every detail is meticulously crafted to elevate your experience and leave you spellbound by the island’s beauty and people.
This is our second tour with Marco and he has made both trips (the other trip was to the Amalfi coast) an amazing experience. Many ”wow locations” and off-the-beaten-path destinations took us away from the “touristy” spots and connected us with the real people and culture of the Italian regions. His groups are small (we had 6 people) and in both tours, we made amazing friends along the way.
Tom L. – May 2022
Read all reviews on Tripadvisor and on Google
2 nights
In CAGLIARI
5-star hotel in a restored Liberty-style palace, featuring a panoramic rooftop facing the harbor. Steps away from the Old Town and the shopping streets.
2 nights
in OLIENA
Country-chic boutique hotel tastefully decorated with artwork, local materials, and the relaxing quietness of central Sardinia’s wild nature.
3 nights
on the COAST
Sea-view deluxe rooms in a 5-star luxury resort, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. Private beach, spa, and a park of olive trees.
2026
Oct 4 — 11 : SOLD OUT
- 4790€ per person in double occupancy
- 5690€ in single occupancy
Oct 12 — 19 : OPEN
- 4790€ per person in double occupancy
- 5690€ in single occupancy
The rate includes:
- 2 nights in Cagliari (Palazzo Tirso or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- 2 nights in Oliena (Su Gologone Hotel or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- 3 nights in Palau (Capo d’Orso Hotel or similar), in deluxe sea view rooms, breakfast and porterage included
- Private van or minibus (as per itinerary), with permits and parking included
- Tour manager for 8 days
- Guided tour of Cagliari and food tasting
- Guided tour of Nora archeological site with tickets
- Guided tour of Su-Nuraxi archaeological site with tickets
- Lunch paired with wine tasting in an organic winery
- Four-wheel drive and guided hike at Supramonte, followed by lunch with the shepherd
- Cooking class in a farmhouse with lunch
- Full-day private boat tour at Maddalena Islands with lunch onboard
- Welcome aperitif on day 1
- 2 dinners in traditional restaurants, wine included
- 1 Michelin-star dinner (full tasting menu, no wine)
- Aperitif in Porto Cervo
- VAT 22%
- Tour Operator Limited Liability Insurance and Bankruptcy/Extraordinary Circumstances Insurance (Fondo di Garanzia)
- Assistance throughout the planning process and travel tips
The rate does not include:
- Hotel City Tax (between 3 to 5€ per person per night)
- Wine at the Michelin-star dinner
- Personal travel insurance
- Airfare to/from Italy
- Any other meal, tasting, entrance fee, transfer, personal expense, tips and anything else not mentioned above in the field “The rate includes”. The wine included is the one presented during the meal or wine tasting and it is never unlimited. Any extra is at each guest’s discretion.
Day 1 – Welcome to Cagliari
Meals included: aperitif and finger food
Accommodation: Cagliari
Arrive in the beautiful city of Cagliari on your own and make your way to the luxurious hotel, perfectly situated in the vibrant marina district, brimming with enticing restaurants and charming shops.
Make sure to check the section below for details on flights and airport transfer options.
Cagliari, the captivating capital of Sardinia, is a hidden Mediterranean treasure that’s waiting to be discovered. Immerse yourself in the enchanting streets of the Old Town, and if you’re up for an adventure, shake off any jet lag with a stroll to the famed Bastione of Saint Remy—an iconic landmark that boasts breathtaking views of the city.
The journey of your Sardinia Small Group Tour officially kicks off at 6:00 PM at the hotel. Come and meet our knowledgeable Sardinian guide, and let’s raise a glass to the start of an unforgettable adventure in this remarkable land, accompanied by a delightful aperitif and exquisite finger foods. Join us and experience the magic of Sardinia!
Day 2 – Cagliari, Nora and Fine Dining on the Beach
Meals included: breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Cagliari
Discover the soul of Cagliari as we embark on a captivating walking tour through the Old Town, revealing the charm of its four districts from the breathtaking vantage point of the Castello. This immersive experience will provide you with a clear understanding of the city’s layout, nestled between two stunning gulfs.
Our journey begins at the remarkable Roman Amphitheatre in the Stampace neighborhood and meanders to the colorful architecture of the Villanova community. As we cross the vibrant Piazza Yenne, the pulse of local life, you’ll witness the rich diversity each district has to offer.
Halfway through our adventure, treat your taste buds at a local bakery with delightful samples of stuffed bread and street food, including the delectable panadinas and coccois prenas, both steeped in the region’s Spanish influences.
After savoring a delicious lunch on your own, take the opportunity to unwind at the hotel or explore the city at your leisure.
Sardinia Travel Package with Dinner on Nora’s Beach
Later in the day, a brief drive will lead us to the enchanting ruins of Nora. This historic site, initially a Phoenician settlement before becoming a thriving Roman town, is renowned for its exquisite mosaics and well-preserved Roman theatre. As the sun begins to set, the location exudes an irresistible charm, framed by a lagoon and the sea that glisten under the golden light.
Tonight, prepare for an unforgettable highlight of our Sardinia Small Group Tour. Indulge in a culinary masterpiece featuring the freshest seafood and seasonal vegetables, all crafted into a full tasting menu at a celebrated Michelin-star restaurant. Enjoy this gastronomic experience from a stunning terrace overlooking the sea, where every bite is matched by the breathtaking views.
We will return to Cagliari later in the evening, with memories that will linger long after the trip ends.
Day 3 – The Nuragic Civilization and Lunch in a Winery
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Oliena
After breakfast, check out and head inland towards the rolling hills of the Marmilla region, a patchwork of fields of grains dotted with the olive oil trees’ silver leaves.
This morning, we invite you to discover Su Nuraxi, one of Sardinia’s most impressive archaeological wonders. This remarkable complex features more than 7,000 fortresses, constructed around 3,500 years ago by the Nuragic civilization—one of the most advanced societies in the Mediterranean at that time.
A journey back in time awaits as we get a close look at this system of stone towers and bring to life the facts and the myth of this ancient and mysterious population.
Sardinia Small Group Tour in an Organic Winery
Next, we visit an organic winery specializing in indigenous Sardinian grape varietals and using terracotta amphoras in the production process. Surrounded by vineyards and with the mountain of central Sardinia in the background, we enjoy a tasting of Cannonau and Vermentino wines paired with lunch in a rustic yet welcoming setting.
This afternoon, relax onboard our comfortable van as we continue driving north to the rugged mountain range of central Sardinia, up to the wild Barbagia region.
After a surprise stop along the way, check in at our next charming hotel, where nature and art are blended in a country-chic retreat, perfect for relaxing and experiencing the island’s most authentic traditions.
Tonight’s dinner is included at the renowned hotel’s restaurant.
Day 4 – Wild Sardinia: the Shepherd’s Hut and Orgosolo’s Street Art
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Oliena
Our countryside hotel is the perfect departure point to explore Sardinia’s inner area called Barbagia. These mountains are home to fierce, proud, yet warm people who live in a rural setting surrounded by ancestral silence and the smell of Sardinian wild herbs.
The adventure begins with a thrilling 30-minute four-wheel drive to the Supramonte mountain, a private and exclusive day trip arranged for our Sardinia Small Group Tour.
These rugged white limestone slopes have been sculpted by water over thousands of years, creating a fascinating landscape that’s accessible on an easy, optional hike led by our local expert. Guests who don’t feel like walking can reach the next stop on board our cars.
After our invigorating hike, you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet one of the local shepherds who call this stunning, remote part of Sardinia home. These shepherds expertly navigate the rugged landscape, moving their flocks from the lowlands to the mountains each summer, often living in complete isolation for weeks. Their deep connection to the land enables them to create delicious dishes using the incredible wild ingredients they gather.
Prepare yourself for a truly memorable experience as we indulge in a fire-roasted lunch in the shepherd’s cozy hut. The meal will feature a delicious array of local cheeses, traditional roasted pork and other meats, accompanied by an exquisite selection of grilled vegetables bursting with flavor. This is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of authentic local cuisine and rural tradition, all set against a breathtaking backdrop away from the madding crowds. Come savor the essence of Sardinia!
Orgoloso’s Murals on our Sardinia Luxury Travel Package
Later in the day, we return to the hotel for a brief rest before venturing out to the vibrant town of Orgosolo, famous for its captivating street art, particularly its striking murals. While many Sardinian villages embrace this tradition, Orgosolo stands out as a beacon of artistic expression, reflecting the unique identity of the local community. This remarkable movement began in 1969 as a courageous act of defiance against the Italian government’s plan to establish a military base in the area. The residents rallied together, occupying the land and transforming their village with over 150 murals that creatively depict a range of political and social issues.
As we stroll through the town, we’ll encounter inspiring artwork that invites thoughtful reflection and offers fantastic photo opportunities. Afterward, enjoy a delightful dinner on your own in this culturally rich setting, soaking in the atmosphere of Orgosolo.
Day 5 – From Supramonte to the Gallura Region
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Palau
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or explore the nearby Gologone Springs before packing and checking out from our luxury countryside retreat.
This morning a scenic drive along Sardinia’s eastern Orosei coastline heading north awaits. We stop for photo opportunities where every beach is a treasure, from Su Barone’s lagoon to Berchida National Park, the sandy dunes of Capo Comino, and Santa Lucia’s fine white sand.
As we approach the city of Olbia, we can spot the Tavolari rocky island, suddenly rising in the distance from the sea.
Cooking Class in Sardinia’s Gallura Region
Later, we arrive at a farmhouse in the northern region of Gallura for an engaging hands-on cooking class followed by lunch.
Sardinian cuisine is rich, rustic, and deeply rooted in tradition, with a focus on fresh and simple ingredients. Whether it’s the art of folding culurgiones, a kind of stuffed pasta filled with potatoes, pecorino cheese, and mint, or layering bread, pecorino, and broth for the traditional Gallurese soup, or making the ricotta-filled pastries flavored with saffron and lemon, known as pardulas, Sardinian recipes require technique and experience that our host will be happy to share.
After savoring the results of our hard work, a short drive takes us to our new home for the following three nights, a luxury 5-star beach resort secluded in a private bay.
An evening in Santa Teresa di Gallura
Tonight, dinner is on your own in Santa Teresa di Gallura, a short drive from our hotel, and one of the most charming coastal towns in northern Sardinia.
The picturesque historic center with charming streets and artisan shops develops around the central Piazza Vittorio Emanuele particularly lively in the evening, with bars and restaurants offering fresh seafood and Sardinian specialties.
Return to the hotel after dinner.
Day 6 – Private Sailing Boat Day Trip to Maddalena’s Archipelago
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Palau
After a delightful breakfast, a short 15-minute drive brings us to the dock, where we are greeted by the captain and crew of our exclusively chartered sailing boat for a day trip in the Maddalena’s archipelago. This unique experience is reserved just for us, promising a day of luxury and adventure.
The two larger islands, La Maddalena and Caprera, along with numerous smaller, uninhabited islets, form a protected National Park that is a testament to nature’s unparalleled beauty. The crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and the stunning landscapes of these islands will leave you in awe.
Based on sea conditions, the captain docks to explore some islands on foot, including a guided tour of Budelli island’s famous pink beach. There is the possibility of swimming or simply taking in the quiet atmosphere of these pristine and solitary inlets.
Back onboard, we enjoy an al-fresco lunch with fresh vegetables, seafood pasta, and fruit under the shade of the ship’s deck. In the afternoon a second stop to delve into the archipelago’s distinctive history, settled at first by Corsican shepherds and fishermen.
As the day draws to a close, the choice of dining experience is entirely yours. You can savor a delectable meal at one of our resort’s restaurants, each offering a unique culinary journey, or opt for our complimentary transfer back to the town of Palau, where a plethora of cozy trattorias and fine restaurants await, ensuring a truly indulgent evening.
Day 7 – Sardinia’s Emerald Coast
Meals included: breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Palau
Enjoy a leisurely and relaxing morning pampered with the many amenities of our luxurious beach hotel. The beauty of the resort and its surroundings calls for some time off! Whether you are in the mood for a walk in the private park, surrounded by junipers, wild olive trees, and rosemary bushes, or read a book on the beach or soak in the spa, there is something to do for everyone.
In the mid-afternoon, we drive to Porto Cervo, considered the main point of reference of the Emerald Coast, where the rich and famous meet. In 1962, Prince Karim Aga Khan established a consortium of private properties spanning from Pitrizza in the north to Rena Bianca in the south, bringing infrastructures and hospitality to a part of Sardinia that until then was close to being uninhabited.
Enjoy some free time in the streets of Porto Cervo, among high-end fashion shops, cafès, and the large yachts docked in the marina. A glass in the central piazzetta is a must-do and a chance to toast to our luxury Sardinia travel package.
Later, a short transfer takes us to a restaurant in a charming location, surrounded by the most iconic elements of the Gallura region, from cork oak trees to granite rock formations, framing a scenario of unparalleled beauty. In this last culinary experience, we share the memories of our week-long Sardinia small group tour before returning to the hotel.
Day 8 – Arrivederci to the Sardinia Small Group Tour
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: n/a
After one more breakfast in the luxurious Capo d’Orso resort, it’s time to say arrivederci to our Sardinia Small Group Tour and transfer to Olbia’s airport.
Flight Information
- Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the tour cost.
- Suggested arrival airport: Cagliari (CAG).
- Suggested departure airport: Olbia (OLB).
- As soon as you book your flights, please share with us your air information so that we can work on airport transfers.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
- Arrival day: we include a private transfer from Cagliari’s airport to the hotel in the city center.
- Departure day: we include one group transfer from our last hotel to Olbia (driving time is approximately 1 hour). Ideally, flights should not be booked before 11:00 am. Please contact us if you’d like to add a transfer at a different time or extend your stay in Sardinia.
On-Tour Luggage Restrictions
In addition to airline luggage restrictions, please consider that:
- Due to our van/bus space limitations during the tour, we ask you to limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person, weighing around 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).
- Each guest can also bring one carry-on and a small, soft-sided bag or backpack for day-to-day travel. The space onboard our vans and minibusses, as well as the overhead rack and the space under the seat, is typically very limited, just enough for small bags and purses.
- The tour is confirmed with at least 6 participants
- A 30% down payment is required in order to confirm the reservation (refundable up to 90 days).
- The remaining balance is due 45 days before the tour.
CANCELLATION POLICY
- There shall be a 250€ non-refundable processing fee (per person) on any cancellation request, regardless of the time frame within which the cancellation is submitted;
- From 90 days to 46 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 30% of the price;
- From 45 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 100% of the price
- Read here the full terms and conditions.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance can cover different trip components, from the full trip cost for unforeseeable reasons to medical expenses, emergency transport, luggage loss, theft while on tour, and evacuation. Without a membership, an emergency evacuation could cost over $100,000.
While each insurance company has different deadlines and policies, our partner Global Rescue allows customers to purchase their best insurance package (IMG Signature Plus) that includes the “Cancel-For-Any-Reason” policy within 20 days from the initial deposit. Other less-inclusive memberships can be purchased until the date of departure.
Meet Piemonte Tour Operator partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading travel protection services. Medical and security emergencies happen. When they do, our guests can rely on Global Rescue to provide medical, security, travel risk, and crisis response services. More than one million members trust Global Rescue to get them home safely when the unexpected happens.
PASSPORT AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary documents for traveling to Italy, depending on your country of residence.
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the end of your tour to enter Italy. Currently, no vaccinations are required, but it is your responsibility to stay informed about any changes to this requirement.
For citizens of other non-European countries traveling internationally, it is advisable to contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine the required travel documentation.
MOBILITY AND HEALTH
To enjoy our Sardinia Small Group Tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances. This is not a physically demanding tour, however, there will be a lot of walking, often on uneven steps, cobblestones, uphill and downhill. One of the charming aspects of Italy is its historical and architectural conformation. Many towns and attractions can only be visited on foot, as vans and buses cannot access the pedestrian areas where most places of interest are located.
While the driving time on our tours is limited, getting to remote farmhouses and villages may require driving on windy roads that may cause motion sickness.
WHEELCHAIRS
Unfortunately we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Our tour managers and tour guides are unable to provide ongoing individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other physical needs.
HOTELS, WI-FI, AIR CONDITIONING
Due to the historic nature of many luxury boutique hotels we stay in, some rooms may have stairs and can vary in size and layout. Additionally, air conditioning in Italy, as well as the Wi-Fi connection, may not be as reliable as it is in the United States.
GRATUITIES and OTHER THINGS TO KNOW
Gratuities for hotel staff and waiters are included in the tour price. Guests may choose to leave a tip for drivers and guides as a token of appreciation for their services. Suggested tipping amounts will be communicated approximately a month before departure via email, along with a list of important information about Italy, including what to pack, how to manage money withdrawals, electricity usage, VAT refunds, and more.
Why a Sardinia Small Group Tour with Meet Piemonte Tour Operator?
When you book a small group tour package to Sardinia, Italy, with Meet Piemonte, you can anticipate an immersive and well-rounded travel experience. This Sardinia tour has been crafted with the priceless support of a Sardinian-native travel expert with decades of professional background in the industry. Our partner started his career as a local guide, which is crucial for understanding the pacing of tours and sharing insights that enhance the appreciation of Sardinia’s unique culture. Furthermore, his love for Sardinia has driven him to conduct in-depth research on wineries, food-related hosts, outdoor activities, and restaurants, ensuring that our Sardinia trip offers a comprehensive and enjoyable tour of Italy’s second-largest island.
Our Sardinia, Italy trip offers no extra costs due to the middleman and no superficial approach. Guests gain access to the island’s most remote areas, unique activities, and in-depth cultural experiences that larger tour operators cannot be able to offer due to their lack of local knowledge
Slow Travel Sardinia Tour to the Barbagia Mountains
Our Sardinia tour package takes you deep into the island, exploring the remote central mountains of the Barbagia region, dominated by the Gennargentu mountain range, while our tour will focus on the Supramonte area. We chose to highlight Barbagia because it retains much of Sardinia’s traditional culture, a product of its historical isolation, setting our tour apart from many competitors. As our small group travels to the heart of the island, guests will be captivated by the stunning, rugged mountains, pristine forests that nurture rich oral traditions, thriving shepherd culture, and the most genuine slow travel experience available in Italy today. Barbagia serves as a refuge from mass tourism, where visitors often receive warm hospitality. That said, traveling there independently is not recommended.
Driving to the Barbagia region and its remote mountain areas within Sardinia presents a number of challenges due to the region’s geography, infrastructure, and historical development. The terrain is rugged and mountainous, featuring steep inclines and sharp curves that can make driving physically demanding and time-consuming. The road network leading into and through Barbagia consists primarily of narrow, winding rural roads, rather than modern highways. These roads require careful navigation, especially for those unfamiliar with mountain driving. Historically, Barbagia was a region of refuge, often resisting external control since ancient times. As a result, modern infrastructure development was limited, and the area remains intentionally isolated in many respects. This isolation is part of what has preserved its authentic cultural identity.
On our Sardinia trip, you can unwind without the hassle of driving, safety concerns, or logistics. Our experienced drivers maintain a slow pace to ensure everyone can enjoy a comfortable journey and take in the scenic views. Our tour manager schedules breaks along the way, allowing you to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
