Things To Do in Villasimius

When it comes to dining, Villasimius sticks to its fishing village roots. Most restaurants plate up same-day-fresh seafood that’s shipped in straight from the town’s harbour.

Boats take off from Villasimius’ marina to Cavoli Island regularly during the day, so you’ll have no trouble getting here. Keep your eyes peeled as you’re crossing – the waters that edge the island are often visited by dolphins. Once you’ve reached dry land, follow the path that leads to the lighthouse for a snap of Sardinia’s shoreline.

This four-day festival has had a spot on Cagliari’s calendar for more than 350 years. It kicks off on the first of May each year, to celebrate the saint who saved locals during a 17th-century plague. The statue of Sant’Efisio is carried through the capital’s streets, followed by a procession of wagons and locals dressed in costumes that represent the island’s villages.

Boat rides to Cavoli Island take off regularly from Villasimius’ marina. This tiny island is also part of the Marine Protected Area of Capo Carbonara, so it’s a certified spot for snorkelling. Shrimps, amberjacks and morays can usually be spotted in the waters that wrap around the island. Dolphins can often be seen on the journey over, too.

Thanks to their protected status, the waters surrounding Villasimius are ripe for action on the snorkelling and scuba-diving front. The town’s main beach is a top spot for exploring underwater – it’s rocky reef’s home to grey triggerfish that are rarely spotted in the Med.

The capital’s marina district is the best place for shopping, with the lion’s share of Cagliari’s shops lining both sides of the Via Roma. Head to the city’s indoor food market – San Benedetto – to load up on a pre-or-post-shopping trip lunch.