Being situated on that famous Italian stretch of coast called “Costa Smeralda” – the Emerald Coast, Cannigione is emerging as a good location for Italy yacht charters thanks to its location in a picturesque gulf, beautiful beaches and interesting mix of Roman, Genoese and Catalonian ruins.
General Info
The northeastern corner of Sardinia seems to be packed full of small resorts that are just emerging as destinations. Apart from Olbia and La Maddalena, Cannigione is another diamond in the rough close to the famous Costa Smeralda.
The town itself is located just off the west shore of the gulf of Arzachena by a natural bay which makes it perfect for sailors arriving here by boat. Originally, the town started out as a fishing village but the natural setting didn’t go unnoticed for too long and now bigger and bigger groups of visitors arrive here each year.
Travel & Arrival
From the Costa Smeralda, getting to Cannigione is easy from June to September, as there is a direct bus linking the two together. But guests that arrive here some other tie than in the summer, need not worry, there is a round the year bus service from Olbia, Arzachena, Palau and S. Teresa di Gallura.
Also, there’s the Olbia Airport just 20km to the southeast which serves as the main tourist arrival hub for the entire Costa Smeralda which can get very crowded from late July to August so make sure you book your flight early, or else, you’ll be catching one of the ferries to the island.
Avant & Apres Sail
The small town and resort of Cannigione attracts guests with its stunning beaches, the main street with its old houses, restaurant and shops and the port of course, all of which exude the exotic mix of Roman, Genoan and Catalonian cultures that have passed by here.
The main street is also the perfect place to go to grab a bite to eat, to get some shopping done and to mingle a little after sunset. The aromas of the cozy tavernas will surely draw you in, as the local chefs specialize in the simple yet tasty Sardinian cuisine as well as some international dishes. visitors can also enjoy a little shopping at the evening market held along the waterfront.
The accommodation isn’t that varied, but it’s the best quality for holidaymakers, consisting mainly of villas, rented houses and apartments, as well as 3 and 4 star hotels. Most of these are located within the urban center, but really, you’ll find that everything is in walking distance around here.
Actions & Events
Cannigione is famous for its water sports practiced here, which range from windsurfing to kayaking and rafting. Sailing is also very popular, the reason why you’ll find so many friends around, cruising their boats up and down the Costa Smeralda. The other popular activities are hiking and bicycle riding around the nearby mountains.
As with most small Italian villages, you’ll find the locals celebrate a lot of Saints’ days around the year. The most important festivities, which could prove an attraction for the crowds are the Patron Saint’s Day on 24th of June when a procession of boats carries a statue of S. Giovanni Battista from the church to one of the islets of the bay to receive a blessing from a priest. Another popular one is the Ferragosto, on August the 15th when there are fireworks shows.