Sardinia

[KenAdams]

We're looking for a beach holiday with our 3 year old.

Not sure whether to stay North or South Sardinia and whether to go down the resort or villa route. We can't afford the Forte resorts btw.

We will be hiring a car. I assume there will be local markets where we can pick up fresh food?

If we go down the villa/apartment route, I'd prefer beachfront, but I doubt I'll get it. Any idea of reputable sites I can book villas on? I'm usually a resort kind of girl so this is completely out of my comfort zone and I have no idea where to start really!

TIA

I'm not sure about particular sites to book through but we went to Alghero a few years ago and loved it - beautiful beaches, old walled town next to the more modern town.

oops posted before finishing my post.... we weren't beach front but about a 10min walk back from the beach.

There were supermarkets and smaller shops dotted around, independent little bakeries, an indoor market that sold fresh fish, fruit and veg, fantastic ice-cream parlours and also (my personal favourite!) we found a little off licence and wine shop that sold their own wine from these huge 5-6ft high metal vats! You took in your empty wine or water bottles and they filled them for you - so cheap but great wine.

Also the people were lovely and they seem to adore children

We went to San Teodoro a few years ago and it is my favourite holiday ever. The beaches are to die for. Can't really help re accommodation as we stayed in DH's uncle's villa but definitely hire a car so you can explore. Worth a drive up to the Costa Smerelda and Porto Cervo to gaze on the gigantic billionaire yachts!

Check out these Agriturismo options. We've used before and would use again. We stayed outside Alghero on west coast and Cannigione on the north-east coast. Preferred west coast as less windy. Very family friendly.

We stayed at a private villa booked through Homeaway that had access to the facilities of the resort across the street one year which was a great compromise.

Thank you everyone, I'll have a look through your recommendations.

How did you all find the driving?

I love Alghero! Would you consider camping? There's a good campsite there (with caravans/bungalows if tents aren't your thing) - right on the beach and the money you save leaves you with more for delicious food :)

My husband did the driving and we found it fine - certainly nothing like driving in Sicily, which is completely terrifying.

Hi op.
We are going this year to Porto Rotondo.
I've got our accommodation through AirBnB.
The beaches are within walking distance and the local shops and restaurants are 5 mins walk.

It's on the Costa Smerelda.
We are flying into the local airport which is 15 km away.

I can't wait. The beaches and sea look amazing.