DESTINATIONGOLF. TRAVEL
DESTINATION GOLF GLOBAL GUIDE 2026
BEYOND THE RESORT: WHAT NOT TO MISS The temptation at Is Molas is to stay put. Resist it occasionally.
The first essential excursion is Nora. Just outside Pula, the archaeological site contains the remains of a city whose history stretches from Phoenician beginnings through Punic and Roman rule. The surviving forum, baths, mosaics, temples, houses and amphitheatre make it one of southern Sardinia’ s most compelling historical sites.
The nearby beach of Nora adds another reason to visit. It combines clear, shallow water with white sand, the Coltellazzo tower and the extraordinary backdrop of ancient ruins. It is one of those rare places where a morning swim and thousands of years of history occupy the same frame.
Then drive west. The coast between Pula, Santa Margherita and Chia is a succession of sandy bays and coves. Chia is the star attraction, with beaches such as Su Giudeu, S’ Acqua Durci, Cala Cipolla, Cala del Morto, Monte Cogoni and Sa Colonia. The combination of dunes, clear water and Mediterranean vegetation is quintessential southern Sardinia.
For a full-day road trip, continue towards Tuerredda. The beach is frequently described as one of the jewels of south-western Sardinia, with fine sand, exceptionally clear water and a small island just offshore. The panoramic road itself is part of the experience.
Cagliari is another worthwhile excursion. Its historic districts, restaurants, cafés and waterfront provide a useful contrast to the slower pace around Pula. Is Molas’ s location means the capital is close enough for a day trip without turning the holiday into a city break.
A car means you can leave early for Chia before the busiest part of the day, stop at several beaches rather than committing to one, drive the coastal road towards Tuerredda, explore small villages, visit Nora independently and return to Pula for dinner.
It is particularly valuable for golfers who want to combine Is Molas with other courses or for visitors who want to explore the area’ s archaeological and natural attractions at their own pace.
WHY RENTING A CAR MAKES SENSE The beach shuttle is useful, but a rental car transforms an Is Molas stay.
Without one, the holiday can comfortably revolve around the resort, Beach Club and organised excursions. With one, southern Sardinia becomes much more accessible.
The resort does provide transfers on request to and from Cagliari airport, Pula and other destinations, as well as chauffeur-driven cars and minivans. Guests with their own car can also use the hotel’ s open-air parking.
The ideal approach, therefore, is not to see the shuttle and rental car as competing options. Use the shuttle when you want an effortless beach day; use the car when you want to discover Sardinia.
WHEN TO GO The beauty of Is Molas is that the best time to visit depends on what you want from the holiday.
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