Prevent yourself from getting a case of SAD (seasonal affective disorder) by taking a trip to the Mediterranean island of Sardinia. With up to 300 days of sunshine and wonderfully balmy weather, a holiday on the Italian island will help you forget the grey days back home. The island has been inhabited since Neolithic times, and has some remarkably well preserved prehistoric sites dotted around. Its geographical separation from the Italian mainland has allowed the Sardinians to preserve their distinctive culture.

See
Su Nuraxi – Sardinia is well known for its many prehistoric nuraghes – towering megalithic structures that date back to before 1000BC. Su Nuraxi is one of the best-preserved examples, and is currently a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. While the complex is fairly inaccessible without a car, several companies do offer daily guided tours to the site.  The nuraghe itself is situated on a plateau, providing visitors with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. The complex also offers visitors a tantalising glimpse into life during the Bronze and Iron Ages.

Stay
Grand Relais Dei Nuraghi – Located on the northeastern coast of Sardinia, this hotel is the perfect setting for a beach holiday. Many rooms have wonderful views of the beach and clear azure waters of the Gulf of Arzachena, only 200 feet away. Several suites have their own private swimming pools, and the hotel has another fully equipped pool for days when it’s too chilly to take a dip in the sea. Room rates start from around £215.

Eat
La Ghinghetta – This seafood restaurant in a quaint little seaside village has consistently been named as one of the island’s best places to eat. While the menu isn’t cheap, the food is stunningly fresh and tasty. Like most Sardinian food, La Ghinghetta’s meals are simply prepared, to let the taste of the seafood shine through. One of the most popular dishes is the seafood tartar – your choice of fish or prawn served raw, with quail’s eggs. Other recommended dishes include the creamy lobster terrine, and spaghetti with a tuna sauce.