Bosa

A colorful medieval town on the Temo River, famous for its pastel-hued houses and Malvasia wine. The hilltop Serravalle Castle offers sweeping views over terracotta rooftops.

Things to do

• Visit Castello dei Malaspina — Climb to the castle for panoramic views and see the 13th-century frescoes inside.
• Kayak the Temo River — Rent a kayak near the old tanneries and paddle toward the sea through lush vegetation.
• Relax at Bosa Marina Beach — A calm sandy beach just 2 km from town, great for swimming in clear turquoise water.
• Taste Malvasia wine at a local cantina — Try this rare amber dessert wine at Cantina di Bosa, produced only in this microclimate.
• Wander Sa Costa historic quarter — Stroll the steeply stepped lanes lined with bright painted houses for great photography.

Food to try

• Malvasia di Bosa — A golden dessert wine with honeyed, nutty notes unique to the Bosa hills.
• Pane Frattau — Crispy carasau flatbread layered with tomato sauce, pecorino, and a poached egg.
• Anguilla in umido — River eel stewed with tomatoes and herbs, a local specialty from the Temo River.
• Seadas — Deep-fried pastry filled with fresh cheese and drizzled with bitter honey, found island-wide.

Local customs & good to know

• Greet locals warmly — Bosa is a tight-knit community where a simple 'buongiorno' goes a long way.
• Respect siesta hours — Most shops close between 1–4 pm; plan sightseeing accordingly.
• Photography etiquette — Ask permission before photographing residents in the narrow lanes of Sa Costa.