San Pantaleo, an itinerary to discover one of the most beautiful villages in Sardegna

What to do, visit and where to eat

In north-eastern Gallura, dominated by white granite and low one-storey buildings, lies a small village that, mixing tradition and modernity, is a veritable den of artists and craftsmen: the village of San Pantaleo. Located 15 kilometres from Porto Cervo, in the district of Olbia, San Pantaleo almost seems to be carved out of the rock itself; thanks to the evocative views and the dozens of artists who take advantage of the air full of creativity to give birth to their works, the village is one of the most popular in Sardinia. The centre of life is the main square, surrounded by cafes and craft shops, where you can relax and have an aperitif. The rustic, typically Sardinian nature embraces the paradisiacal sea thanks to the Gulf of Cugnana. Despite having only 1116 inhabitants, San Pantaleo teems with life, especially from May to October: every Thursday, there is a market, famous throughout Sardinia, thanks to the beauty of the local handicrafts.

San Pantaleo (ph. Dario Garofalo)

WHAT TO SEE IN SAN PANTALEO

• Church of San Pantaleo

Dedicated to the village's patron saint, it was built in the 19th century in the typical Sardinian rural style. The interior walls are decorated with frescoes and works of art, thanks to which it is possible to see the faith of the community.

• Workshops and Ateliers

Craftsmen are the protagonists of this village and their workshops offer an immersive spectacle into the traditions of the area. Not to be missed:

• Foresta G
  Via Torres, 07026, San Pantelo SS
  +39 379 188 3173
  No famous brands, but a selection of fashion boutiques, offering hand-sewn clothes with a certain oriental influence.

• Yashu e Prem
  Via Torres, 5, 07026, San Pantelo SS
  +39 338 543 7108
  You won't find trademarks, as the shop offers a selection of original clothes.

• Bottega del ferro
  Via Molise 21, 07026, San Pantaleo SS

  +39 333 962 3588

  The workshop is run by the Solinas brothers, iron craftsmen, who create objects and small works of art.

• Ceramics La Pietra Santa
  Via La Petra Sarda 6, 07026, San Pantaleo SS

  +39 347 108 0071

  Clay working has been handed down in the Deiana family for generations. Initially, water flasks, earthenware plates and vases were made, today one can also admire ceramic creations, decorated with the traditional Sardinian gallinules.

▪ Beaches

San Pantaleo enjoys a privileged position, as it stands not far from the Gulf of Cugnana. Among the most beautiful beaches are the Portisco beach, characterised by its fine sand and crystal clear water, and the Rena Bianca beach, which is smaller but offers a unique view of the gulf and the islands of Soffi and Montorio. The Razza di Juncu beach is excellent if you are travelling with your pet, not to mention the beauty of the surrounding nature. The Liscia Ruja, on the other hand, is special, with its reddish-coloured sand that makes the sea emerald even brighter.

San Pantaleo

▪ Immersed in nature

For golf lovers, close to San Pantaleo is the Pevero Golf Club, one of the most popular in the world due to its breathtaking views. Not far from the village is also Monte Cugnana, which offers trekking trails amidst Mediterranean vegetation and rocky landscapes; those who manage to conquer the summit will be rewarded with an unparalleled view of the gulf and nearby islands. San Pantaleo, moreover, is surrounded by granite rock formations, which make the landscape evocative, excellent for those who love the thrill of climbing, as well as for those who prefer to stroll while breathing in the pure air of this wild nature.

▪ Surroundings

The Gallura region offers breathtaking views, unspoilt nature and azure waters, as well as small villages where you can savour Sardinian tradition. Don't miss Luogosanto, which rises from the top of Mount Ghjuanni, Arzachena, with its picturesque alleyways or Castelsardo, nestled in the rainbow. Just over 30 minutes by car, you can visit the famous Porto Cervo, a mixture of history, tradition and modernity. Nearby Olbia is also not to be underestimated, where the romantic atmosphere of Porto Rotondo clashes with the might of the Castello di Pedres.

▪ Events

In addition to the Thursday market, during the second half of July, you can participate in the Magnendi in Carrera, the most important gastronomic event in the area. Here you can taste local products; not to be missed are the cheeses and cold cuts, but also wild boar sauce, gnocchi and traditional Sardinian sweets. Moreover, in early September, the Folklore Festival is held, in which Sardinian folk groups perform.

San Pantaleo

WHERE TO EAT IN SAN PANTALEO

• Caffè Nina

  Via Torres, 8, 070026, San Pantaleo SS

  +39 338 368 7288

The ideal place for an aperitif in the piazza; here you can relax at the sight of oleander flowers, accompanied by the singing of bells and buildings painted by the sunset.

• Giagoni Restaurant in the square
  Piazza della Chiesa, 07026, San Pantaleo SS
  +39 0789 65244

Here you can taste the flavours of tradition, which meet the chef's imagination, in an intimate Galluresque atmosphere.

• Il Fuoco Sacro

  Strada di Budeo 070026, San Pantaleo SS

  +39 0789 187 65244

The restaurant is located in the Petra Segreta resort, a magical place, thanks to its garden and view of the coast. The chefs offer modern cuisine, which starts with the primary materials offered by the resort itself, enriched by the herbs grown on the estate.