I was extremely lucky to visit Sardinia, both for fun and work. Upon arrival to Cagliari, the southern most tip of Sardinia (see map below) we were greeted by our Italian friend, Stefano who lived across from us in Brazil. While in Brazil, he had mentioned to us how amazing Sardinia was for kiting and also for the beautiful regions that make up this island off the coast of Italy. He had recently moved to Sardinia to work at Hyper Island Kiteboarding School. We immediately checked into our villa atop Torre de Chia, which is about 75 km south of Cagliari. The southern part of Sardinia has around 280-300 windy days a year. That’s for some good kiting! Fortunately, it was windy every single day we were there and depending on the direction it was blowing, there was always somewhere to chase the wind on the island.
Over the first few days, we checked out Chia, about a 5-minute drive from the villa. Chia boasts beautiful mountains and of course the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop and playground. The typical wind here is called the Scirocco from the south and southeast; it blows between 18 and 24 knots. It comes from the desert of Libya and Tunisia. The locals call it “the perfect wind, like a fan.†When it cranks, you can also find the best waves in the area. My baggage hadn’t made its way from Rome yet, so I was stuck for 4 days sans kite gear. When it finally arrived, I was so excited I climbed into the bag and knew it was time for me to ride!
By night, we made our way into Cagliari, which was like a mini-Rome. The small streets and tiny cars definitely got me in the European mode. We dined at many extraordinary authentic Italian restaurants where the pasta, pizza and vino flowed freely… VERY freely! Because Sardinians are so friendly, you really could ask anyone for a favor. Stefano and his friends treated us like family. We also had the pleasure of meeting some great team riders. Daniele from F-One and Luca from Naish who displayed their handle pass like it was just a simple transition. These guys were awesome to watch!
We also visited Poetto, located about 10 minutes out of Cagliari. Poetto was blowing side-on-shore 20 knots. I had no trouble on my 8 meter. Guys were on 11s or 12s. Here, you could find 20-25 kiters launching and landing and while it was sort of a free for all once this was going on, the sea could handle 100 kiters without any crowds. I carved way up wind, the wind was steady and smooth and I really didn’t want to get out of the water.
Sardinia really is paradise, not only for kiters, for anyone that loves the water and white sand. It’s so easy to feel at home here and with 280-300 kiting days a year, it’s no wonder it’s becoming popular among kiting destinations. Stefano and Daniele will guide our tours next year. It’s their job on a daily basis to chase the wind and move wherever it’s blowing. They also know the ins and outs of the secret beaches with large sand dunes, only accessible by 4×4. Definitely makes you think of Brazil. We will arrange the transport, the accommodations and guide our clients to the best (secret) kiting beaches and of course, the hottest parties in town… Did I forget to mention how beautiful the people are here? Sardinia is one of those places you yearn for, and we are really excited to set up tours for next year. Stay tuned!
Jessie Hassell- Kite Adventures
For more info: Jessie@kiteadventures.com