Santa Teresa Gallura
By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 30 December 2023
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Situated close to the northern tip of Sardinia, the seaside town of Santa Teresa Gallura offers a variety of delights to its visitors.
In practical terms, it's the most convenient place for crossings to and from the island of Corsica which is just 11 kilometres away and a 50 minute ferry journey. However, once you arrive in Santa Teresa Gallura you might just want to stay put and enjoy the many charms it presents, such as its beautiful beaches, great restaurants and shopping areas. |
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A town fit for royalty
Santa Teresa is a relatively new town; established in 1808 by King Vittorio Emanuele I who named it after his queen, Maria Teresa. Vestiges of the past are few but there is a 16th century Spanish watchtower called Torre Spagnola which is one of the best vantage points for photos of the town.
Without a doubt, the highlight of Santa Teresa Gallura is its stunning beach: Rena Bianca. The powder puff white sands and crystalline waters make this one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. Even if you don't want to swim, you can get much enjoyment from walking around the headland of Punta Falcone to admire the views.
Without a doubt, the highlight of Santa Teresa Gallura is its stunning beach: Rena Bianca. The powder puff white sands and crystalline waters make this one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. Even if you don't want to swim, you can get much enjoyment from walking around the headland of Punta Falcone to admire the views.
A bright, colourful town
The town itself is made up of brightly-coloured buildings and dominated by the main square: Piazza Vittorio Emanuele I. Some of Sardinia's best restaurants can be found in Santa Teresa Gallura with fresh fish the obvious speciality. The town comes alive in the summer evenings with some of the most vibrant nightlife in Sardinia and there are also some great shopping options available.
Ferries arrive and depart from the town's port which is situated a short distance away from the centre. Apart from the ferries to and from Corsica, there are several boat tours available across to the La Maddalena Archipelago or slightly further afield to the Costa Smeralda.
Ferries arrive and depart from the town's port which is situated a short distance away from the centre. Apart from the ferries to and from Corsica, there are several boat tours available across to the La Maddalena Archipelago or slightly further afield to the Costa Smeralda.
Holiday base
Santa Teresa Gallura is a popular base for a holiday; not only because of the features mentioned above, but also because there's plenty to see within a very short distance. If we consider that Rena Bianca Beach is one of the most beautiful in Italy, then it follows that during the summer months it becomes extremely popular.
However, just five kilometres away from the town you'll find the rocky promontory of Capo Testa. The beaches here such as Zia Culumba and Valle della Luna are much quieter than Rena Bianca but share that same thread of crystal clear water and soft sand. You can happily spend a whole day hiking around Capo Testa, exploring its unusual rock formations and hidden bays where you can access that beautiful water.
However, just five kilometres away from the town you'll find the rocky promontory of Capo Testa. The beaches here such as Zia Culumba and Valle della Luna are much quieter than Rena Bianca but share that same thread of crystal clear water and soft sand. You can happily spend a whole day hiking around Capo Testa, exploring its unusual rock formations and hidden bays where you can access that beautiful water.
Comune di Santa Teresa Gallura
Province: Sassari
Region: Sardinia Population: 5,006 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2023) Size: 101 km² Highlights: Rena Bianca Beach, Torre Spagnola, shops Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025 Close by: La Maddalena Archipelago, Tavolara, Olbia, Sassari Recommended accommodation: Hotel Canne al Vento |