Autumn holiday in Golfo Aranci: sea, nature and wine in northern Sardinia
Autumn in Golfo Aranci: Sardinia without the crowds
When the beaches empty and the summer heat gives way to mild, bright days, northern Sardinia shows a different side: calmer, more authentic, and still surprisingly good for the sea. Autumn is the ideal time for anyone looking for relaxation, nature and good food, far from the prices and crowds of August.
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What's the weather like in autumn in Golfo Aranci?
The climate stays mild for much of the autumn, with sunny days perfect for walking, exploring and spending time outdoors. The sea also holds on to the warmth built up over the summer: in autumn the average water temperature is around 21°C, and on sunny October days a swim is still possible.
Of course, the weather is more changeable than in summer, so pack a light jacket and plan your activities day by day.
The sea without the crowds
Golfo Aranci's Prima, Seconda and Terza Spiaggia (First, Second and Third Beach), all within walking distance of the centre, are almost deserted in autumn. A little further on, Cala Moresca and Cala Sabina offer clear water and silence. It's the perfect time for a sunset walk on the sand, a picnic in a quiet cove or a few hours reading in the sun.
Hiking and nature on Capo Figari
With cooler temperatures, autumn is the best season for walking. The Capo Figari headland offers scenic trails through Mediterranean scrub and limestone cliffs: you can climb to the old lighthouse, over 300 metres above the sea, with views of Tavolara island, or follow the easier Cala Sabina loop, suitable for children too.
With a bit of luck, you may still spot the bottlenose dolphins that live year-round in the bay, from the water or from the coast.
Wine season: Vermentino di Gallura
Autumn is harvest time, and in Gallura the star is Vermentino di Gallura, the only wine in Sardinia with DOCG status. Many wineries inland, around Monti, Berchidda, Tempio Pausania and Arzachena, welcome visitors for tastings and vineyard tours, usually by appointment.
In autumn, visits are relaxed, without the summer crowds, and often led by the winemakers themselves. In early October, Olbia also hosts Benvenuto Vermentino, a week of tastings, events and winery visits dedicated to the region's signature wine.
Autunno in Barbagia: Sardinia's traditions
From September to December, every weekend a different village in the heart of Sardinia opens its cortes, the courtyards of its old houses, to visitors. This is Autunno in Barbagia (Autumn in Barbagia), a journey through carasau bread, cheeses, crafts and traditions. From 5 September to 13 December 2026, the festival involves more than thirty villages in the province of Nuoro, and it makes a great day trip from Golfo Aranci.
A practical tip: inland villages are noticeably cooler than the coast, so bring a jumper.
Villages and flavours of Gallura
Beyond wine, autumn is the right time to discover inland Gallura: the granite lanes of Tempio Pausania, the village of Luogosanto, and countryside dotted with cork oaks. At the table, it's the season of bolder flavours: porceddu (roast suckling pig), aged cheeses, strawberry-tree honey and seadas, cheese pastries drizzled with honey.
Getting here in autumn
Olbia Airport, about 15 km from Golfo Aranci, stays connected outside the summer season: alongside domestic flights, Volotea flies year-round to Paris Orly and Barcelona. If you prefer to bring your own car, ferries arrive directly at Golfo Aranci port, just a few minutes from the apartments.
Where to stay: Capo Figari Apartments
Capo Figari Apartments are located in the centre of Golfo Aranci, about 200 metres from the sea and a short walk from restaurants, cafés, a pharmacy and a supermarket. They're a convenient base for exploring northern Sardinia in autumn:
- Two bedrooms, sleeping up to 5, ideal for families and couples who want space.
- Fully equipped kitchen, to cook with the local produce you pick up on your trips.
- Heating and air conditioning, to stay comfortable whatever the weather.
- Covered parking space in the garage, handy for heading out every day to explore the island.
- Fibre Wi-Fi, for combining a holiday with remote work.
- Pets welcome.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in autumn in Golfo Aranci?
Yes, on sunny October days the sea is still pleasant: in autumn the average water temperature is around 21°C.
What can you do in autumn in northern Sardinia?
Hiking on Capo Figari, walks on empty beaches, visits to Vermentino wineries, trips to Gallura's villages and the Autunno in Barbagia festivals.
How do you get to Golfo Aranci out of season?
By plane to Olbia Airport, about 15 km away, or by ferry directly to Golfo Aranci port.