Discovering the Most Beautiful Villages of Northwestern Sardinia
Northwestern Sardinia is a mosaic of charming towns and villages, each with its own story to tell, a rhythm to savor, and landscapes to admire. In addition to Alghero, from the Torre del Porticciolo Village-Camping you can reach them all in a short time, discovering every day a new gem nestled between the sea, rivers, and hills.

Bosa: Colors, Wine, and Ancient Towers on the River
About 55 km from the campsite, along one of the most scenic coastal roads in Europe, lies Bosa, a village nestled on the banks of the Temo River. Its colorful houses seem to climb upward toward the Serravalle Castle, which dominates the town. Here, time flows slowly, among cobbled alleys, artisan workshops, and the unmistakable scent of Malvasia wine, produced in ancient cellars carved into the rock. Strolling along the river or visiting the baroque cathedral is an experience that harmoniously blends nature and culture.
Villanova Monteleone: The Plateau Overlooking the Sea
About 30 km from the Torre del Porticciolo Village-Camping, Villanova Monteleone stretches between green hills and breathtaking views of the sea at Capo Marrargiu. This rural village has an authentic soul, shaped by agriculture, mural art, and traditions that are still very much alive. Walking through its streets means encountering colorful murals that tell the story of the community and its farming culture. In the surrounding area, not to be missed are the Giants’ Tombs and the Nuragic site of Appiu, testimony to the millennia-long presence of humans in this wild yet welcoming land.
Monteleone Rocca Doria: A Tiny Village Above the Clouds
This tiny village – with fewer than 100 inhabitants – stands on a limestone plateau overlooking Lake Temo. Located about 50 km from the campsite, it is one of the smallest villages in Sardinia, but also one of the most fascinating. Its name reveals its dual soul: Monteleone for its height and Rocca Doria for the medieval rule of the Doria family, who built a fortress here. Walking through its quiet streets feels like stepping into a history book. Not to be missed are the panoramic view from the terrace, the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate, and the traces of the Giudicale period still visible among the stones.

Stintino: Sardinia of Memory and the Sea
A little further north, about 60 km away (around 1 hour and 10 minutes from the campsite), lies Stintino, famous for its postcard-perfect beach: La Pelosa, with its fine white sand and crystal-clear waters. But Stintino is also about history and maritime identity. The Tonnara Museum, housed in the old Saline building, tells the tough yet fascinating story of the tonnarotti, the traditional bluefin tuna fishermen. From here, excursions depart to the Island of Asinara, now a national park, home to unspoiled nature and a former prison that can still be visited.
Porto Torres: Archaeology and the Sea on the Gulf of Asinara
About 45 minutes from the campsite, Porto Torres is both a strategic port and a city with a glorious past. Founded by the Romans, it still preserves the remains of ancient Turris Libisonis, with the National Archaeological Park, the Roman Bridge, and the thermal baths. The spiritual heart of the city is the Basilica of San Gavino, one of the masterpieces of Romanesque architecture in Sardinia. But Porto Torres is also a gateway to the sea: its modern seafront, nearby beaches, and ferry links to the Island of Asinara make it an ideal stop for those looking to combine culture, relaxation, and nature.

Castelsardo: Weaving Stone and Tradition
Heading towards the northern coast, about 80 km away (around 1 hour and 30 minutes), you reach Castelsardo, a medieval village built on a rocky promontory. Here, time seems to stand still: stone-paved streets wind their way up to the Doria Castle, which houses the Museum of Mediterranean Weaving, dedicated to the ancient art of basketry. Even today, women continue to weave reeds and asphodel, keeping alive a centuries-old tradition. Not to be missed are the panoramic view from the belvedere, the Cathedral of Sant’Antonio Abate, and the striking Elephant Rock, a natural rock formation sculpted by wind and time.
Sassari: A City of Art and Centuries-Old Rituals
About 40 km from the campsite, Sassari is the second-largest city in Sardinia and an important cultural hub. Its historic center is a labyrinth of noble palaces, baroque churches, and lively squares. The spiritual and cultural heart of the city is the Festa dei Candelieri, held every year on August 14th: a unique UNESCO-recognized procession, where huge candlesticks are carried on the shoulders of guild members through the city streets. Wandering through its museums, such as the National Museum Sanna, or visiting the Cathedral of San Nicola, is the perfect opportunity to discover another side of Sardinia: cultured, vibrant, and always welcoming.
Live Your Holiday at Torre del Porticciolo and Discover the Charm of Northwestern Sardinia’s Most Beautiful Villages
Every village in Northwestern Sardinia is a world of its own: Bosa embraces you with its colors and scents, Stintino enchants you with the sea, Castelsardo tells stories of stone and art, and Sassari surprises you with its cultural vitality.
The Torre del Porticciolo Village-Camping is the perfect starting point to explore them all. Book your holiday now and let yourself be guided by the authentic beauty of this land.
FAQ – The Villages of Northwestern Sardinia: What to Know Before You Go
In addition to classics like Bosa, Stintino, Castelsardo, and Sassari, Villanova Monteleone, Monteleone Rocca Doria, and Porto Torres are also easily reachable in less than an hour’s drive.
About 55 km, roughly 1 hour by car along the scenic coastal road.
Yes, it is about 60 km away and can be reached in just over an hour
Its medieval old town, the castle, the Museum of Mediterranean Weaving, and breathtaking views.
Absolutely. It’s perfect for those seeking unspoiled landscapes, Nuragic archaeological sites, and panoramic hikes between hills and coastline.
It is one of the smallest and most panoramic villages in Sardinia. Its medieval past and location perched above Lake Temo make it a fascinating destination, far from mass tourism.
Yes. The city preserves important Roman remains and one of the most beautiful basilicas on the island, as well as direct access to the Island of Asinara for nature excursions.
Piazza d’Italia, the Cathedral of San Nicola, the Rosello Fountain, and the Sanna National Museum.
Absolutely. It is one of the island’s most exciting traditional celebrations, recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Spring and summer are ideal: the weather is pleasant, and the villages come alive with traditional festivals, food fairs, cultural events, and local markets.
Yes, having your own vehicle or a rental car is the most convenient way to get around, as many villages are located in hilly or rural areas with limited public transport.
Yes. Many villages offer farm stays, wineries, and shops where you can taste local products: Malvasia wine in Bosa, cheeses in Villanova, and local wines in Sassari and Porto Torres.