Well, I have been to the ostrich capital of the world – Outshoorn, time to ‘pack’ in a visit to Sardinia and see what it stood for (while resting my tired legs).
Usually I wander the town and gather a sense of its voice. Not in this case…the picturesque area of Alghero had me perplexed, as its secrets were staying just that – in true Italian style.
The sunset on the first night was even a showdown at 20 paces – the sun won, but it was close. Interestingly the island is more Italian, whilst Corsica is more French…the two float and almost touch off the coasts of Italy, Spain and France…but are worlds apart.
The classic town did seem to be facing a new fight…having clearly been built to successfully survive so many…this time an infiltration from within, how to co-habitate with a modern existence. Maybe this face-off would enable me to gain an insight into its core?
It did.
Everything became clear, like so many lovers who walked the foreshore, everyone here was madly happy and in love. Sometimes you don’t ask why, you just enjoy your moment in the sun.
The drive along the west coast reminded me of a similar drive in my early twenties of Adelaide’s coast – disappointing and until now forgetful. It seemed the weather was keeping the translucent blue water a secret, even when reaching what I could see would be beaches worthy of a sunburn – the wind and rain kept me at bay. I felt like Jim Carrey in The Truman Show – never allowed to reach my destination.
As I made my way back home the clouds mysteriously disappeared without a word, Alghero had me where they wanted me and I was made an offer I couldn’t refuse – a sunny evening. And a reminder, stay in the east.
They certainly couldn’t hide that they can seriously cook. Food at The Kings, Al Tugari, and Muzoo (seafood and pasta degustation with no menu), Trattoria Lo Romani (the aroma of the suckling pig was as memorable as a great Aria) was by far the best Italian cuisine I have had…they are passionate about their offerings and that jumps off the plate, and what a joy not to be rushed for the next sitting. Cinque Trimming long in the past I am sorry.
All in all…whatever you are in Sardinia for, it is here for you. Non ha il dolce a caro, chi provato non ha l’amaro.
