It doesn't involve beaches...
Are you planning a road trip or van life escape to the stunning island of Sardinia? Looking for more than just sun-soaked beaches? Head to the enchanting village of Laconi, nestled in the heart of the island.
Located about 70 km north of Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital, Laconi offers a picturesque retreat surrounded by lush forests and rugged hills. This hidden gem bypasses the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots, giving you a taste of Sardinia’s authentic rural charm. While the island is famous for its turquoise coastline, Laconi reveals a breathtaking side of Sardinia that many travellers overlook.
Perched on the Sarcidano plateau, reaching Laconi involves a scenic drive through the mountains. Trust me; the views along the route will make every twist and turn worthwhile!
From its peaceful parks to historical landmarks, here’s why Laconi deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.
1) Natural Beauty to Explore
The main attraction in Laconi is the beautiful Parco di Aymerich, a sprawling green space waiting for you to unwind and explore.
The park features cascading waterfalls, centuries-old trees, and winding trails that are ideal for a leisurely stroll or a short hike. The ruins of the medieval Castello di Laconi add a touch of mystery to the landscape, making it a fascinating place to explore. And if you climb along the ridges of the park, you'll reach a clearing that offers magnificent views of the town, framed by mountain ranges and the picturesque Sardinian countryside.
While Sardinia’s beaches can be crowded in the summer, the park offers a cool retreat away from the sweltering heat. The rolling hills and shaded forests create a refreshing environment, making it the ideal destination for those seeking a more temperate climate.
2) Finally, A Free Service Area!
Finding a free fully serviced site in Sardina is like finding a needle in a haystack! Thankfully, this one in Laconi has it all: drinking water, grey and black wastewater disposal, and plenty of electricity points - all at no cost! And guess what? You’ll even find bins, which is a rarity in Sardinia!
The parking area is a spacious, level concrete surface, so have no fear about muddy shoes ruining your van. Even though it's in the centre of the village, the parking is peaceful and quiet. Each morning, you’ll be greeted by the gentle chime of the local church bell!
3) Experience Sardinia’s Enchanting Inner Landscape
Many travellers flock to Sardinia’s stunning beaches and lively cities, but the heart of the island deserves exploration. Nestled in this less-travelled region, Laconi stands out as the perfect base for your adventures into the less commercialized parts of the island.
The central region offers you rolling hills, exhilarating drives, dramatic landscapes, and thick forests. In spring and autumn, expect to see lush greens, wildflowers, ancient oak trees and Mediterranean shrubs.
This area offers a much slower pace, inviting van lifers and intrepid travellers a unique experience far removed from the typical tourist paths!
Hidden Gem Rating
- Van-Life Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Scenic Value: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Peace & Quiet: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Local Attractions: ⭐
This article comes as part of vanlavita's 'Hidden Gem' series. For more info and the full list of destinations, check out the dedicated page 👇

Curious about what to do while you're in Sardinia? Check out my two-week itinerary for a perfect travel plan! 👇
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