ALGHERO, SARDINIA

By coach we travel towards Castelsardo, on the north coast of Sardinia – a wild coastline, moulded by the winds. Stopping a few kilometres before Castelsardo, we shall see the curious ‘Elephant Rock’ by the side of the road; unsurprisingly, the name derives from its shape – that of an elephant’s head complete with trunk.

By coach we travel towards Castelsardo, on the north coast of Sardinia – a wild coastline, moulded by the winds. Stopping a few kilometres before Castelsardo, we shall see the curious ‘Elephant Rock’ by the side of the road; unsurprisingly, the name derives from its shape – that of an elephant’s head complete with trunk. The rock was the site of burial ceremonies in ancient times. Castelsardo is a fortified town founded in the 12th century by the Maritime Republic of Genoa. It is set on a promontory with a spectacular panoramic view of the Gulf of Asinara in the west, to the peaks of the Gallura Mountains in the East. In this ancient town, the structures of military defence have been preserved, and the 16th century, Gothic-style cathedral – set on a cliff edge – can still be enjoyed. The workshops in Castelsardo are well known for their production of baskets, made from the leaves of miniature palm trees. Other local handicrafts may attract the discerning shopper. There is approximately 1 hour of walking, over uneven and uphill ground. The opening of shops cannot be guaranteed.