From Alghero: Off-Road Tour to Porto Ferro and Argentiera
Explore rugged coastlines, ghost mining villages and wild beaches aboard a Land Rover Defender.
This Sardinia off-road tour from Alghero takes you deep into the untouched northwest coast, where red trachyte cliffs meet emerald waters and an abandoned silver-mining village stands frozen in time. Rated easy, it is accessible to most travellers while still delivering genuine backcountry scenery. The full-day itinerary balances guided exploration with free beach time at two of the region's most striking destinations.
Argentiera is one of Sardinia's most atmospheric corners. The old mining complex operated until the mid-twentieth century, and its stone buildings, rusted machinery and sea-facing terraces survive largely intact, offering a compelling window into the island's industrial past.
Porto Ferro rounds out the afternoon with a very different character. Beloved by surfers for its consistent Atlantic-facing swells, the beach is framed by dense Mediterranean scrub and dramatic rock formations, making it one of the least-commercialised stretches of sand on the entire island.
Throughout the day, a Land Rover Defender handles the unpaved tracks that connect these locations, reaching viewpoints and coves that standard vehicles cannot access. The pace is relaxed, with ample time to swim, snorkel or simply sit on the shore.
Tour Highlights
Walk through the abandoned Argentiera mining village, a remarkably preserved industrial ghost town overlooking the sea.
Swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters at Argentiera beach during a generous midday free period.
Travel in a Land Rover Defender along off-road tracks through wild coastal scrubland inaccessible to ordinary vehicles.
Discover Porto Ferro, a remote surf beach flanked by red trachyte rocks and dense macchia vegetation.
Explore the authentic, less-visited side of north-western Sardinia far from the main tourist circuits.
Photograph dramatic contrasts of rust-coloured rock, turquoise water and historic stone architecture throughout the day.
Itinerary
Meet your guide at the designated point in Alghero and board the Land Rover Defender. The group departs northward along the coast road toward the Argentiera peninsula.
Arrive at the former silver-mining settlement and explore on foot at your own pace. Stone workshops, processing buildings and workers' quarters line the hillside above a sheltered cove, telling the story of Sardinia's nineteenth and twentieth century mining industry.
Enjoy free time on the beach at Argentiera. Swim, snorkel over the rocky seabed, or find a shaded spot to enjoy a self-arranged lunch while taking in views of the clear Ligurian Sea.
Re-board the Defender for an off-road drive through coastal scrubland to reach Porto Ferro. The track passes through protected natural landscape where paved roads do not reach.
Spend the afternoon at this wild, surf-facing beach backed by red trachyte cliffs. The bay is largely undeveloped and remains one of the most scenic spots on the northwest Sardinian coast.
The Defender retraces the route back to Alghero, arriving in the late afternoon. Passengers are dropped at the original meeting point in the city centre.
What Is Included
Included
- Transport in a Land Rover Defender with professional driver-guide
- Guided visit to the Argentiera mining village
- Two beach stops with free swim time
- Pick-up and drop-off in Alghero city centre
Not Included
- Lunch and beverages
- Snorkelling equipment (recommended to bring your own)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
Important Information
Ready to Explore Sardinia Off the Beaten Track?
Secure your place on this full-day off-road adventure through north-western Sardinia, from the ghost village of Argentiera to the wild shores of Porto Ferro.
Book Now
