One of the few settlements on the northern Sardinian coast with a real sense of history, the old heart of Castelsardo, visible from many miles away, sits proudly on a cliff top high above the sea. Narrow atmospheric streets, connected by broad stone steps and still with their nineteenth century lighting, hug the steep hill below the medieval castle. The quiet alleyways are lined with pastel-coloured houses, restrained souvenir shops selling local handicrafts and laid-back cafe-restaurants. On the north-western edge is a small, but attractive, stone cathedral with a broad terrace leading to a sturdy stone promenade with sweeping views into the great blue yonder and up the attractive green coastline. 8/10
