Below the crystalline surface of the sea in North-West Sardinia lies a parallel world made of submerged caves, historical wrecks, and posidonia meadows inhabited by spectacular fauna. It is no coincidence that the coast between Alghero, Asinara, and Castelsardo is considered one of the most sought-after destinations by divers from all over Europe.
Whether you are an experienced diver with an advanced certification or a curious beginner looking for your "Discover Scuba Diving" experience, we have selected the 4 best Diving Centers in the area, each with a unique specialty.
By choosing Villa Malvasio as your "Base Camp", you will find yourself exactly in the center of this submerged paradise. Here is where we recommend you dive.
1. Nautisub (Alghero): The Masters of Submerged Caves
The Marine Protected Area of Capo Caccia boasts the largest system of submerged caves in the Mediterranean. To explore it, Nautisub in Alghero is a true institution.
- What makes them unique: They are the leading experts in local underwater speleology. They will safely guide you inside the famous Grotta di Nereo (the largest submerged sea cave in Europe). Ideal for experienced divers looking for technical thrills, but also perfect for basic courses.
👉 Discover more and book: Official Website Nautisub
2. Archimete (Tramariglio - Capo Caccia): Immersed in the Nature Park
If you are looking for an experience in close contact with nature even before putting your head underwater, the Archimete center is the perfect choice. It is located right on the Tramariglio beach, in the green heart of the Porto Conte Park.
- What makes them unique: The breathtaking location and the relaxed approach. Besides diving, they are perfect for those traveling with their family: while one parent dives, the rest of the family can do guided snorkeling or rent kayaks.
👉 Discover more and book: Official Website L'Archimete
3. Cala d'Oliva Diving Center (Asinara): Pure Biodiversity
For decades, Asinara was a maximum-security prison. This forced isolation has preserved its seabed, making it a natural aquarium unique in the world.
- What makes them unique: They operate directly within the Asinara National Park. Diving here means swimming among schools of barracudas, giant groupers, and, with a bit of luck, dolphins. It is the ultimate bio-marine experience.
👉 Discover more and book: Official Website Cala d'Oliva Diving
4. Mistral Diving Center (Castelsardo): The Thrill of Wrecks
Moving north, the seabed changes and history takes over. The Mistral Diving Center in Castelsardo is the reference point for historical dives.
- What makes them unique: They are the wreck specialists. They will take you to explore ships sunk during the world wars, such as the famous armed merchant ship "Gazzella", resting on the seabed off the coast. An experience steeped in history and mystery.
👉 Discover more and book: Official Website Mistral Diving
A true emotion: The photos of Arnaud, Geraldine, and Hugo
If you scroll through the images in this article, you will notice some beautiful underwater shots. They are a special gift given to us by Arnaud, Geraldine, and Hugo, who were our fantastic guests at Villa Malvasio.
During their stay, they set off for Alghero for a scuba diving excursion. They returned in the evening with their eyes full of wonder for the colors of the Coral Riviera, and they infected us with their overwhelming enthusiasm! They loved the freedom of returning to the Villa, conveniently rinsing their equipment in the large outdoor spaces, and enjoying a well-deserved relaxation in the absolute silence of our garden. Thanks again for sharing these photos with us!
How the experience works (and what you need)
Many guests ask us if it is complicated to organize a dive when traveling by plane. The answer is no!
- The Equipment: You do not need to bring weights or tanks from home (provided by the diving center). Furthermore, it is possible to rent the complete equipment (wetsuit, fins, mask, BCD, and regulators) tailored to you directly at the dive center.
- The Baptism of the Sea: Don't have a certification? You can book the Discover Scuba Diving program: an instructor will literally hold your hand in shallow waters to let you experience the thrill of breathing underwater in total safety.
Why Villa Malvasio is "Paradise" for Divers
Those who dive have specific needs. At Villa Malvasio we have thought of everything:
- Breakfast Bag: Are the diving briefings often at 8:00 in the morning? No problem: let us know the night before and we will prepare a convenient "Breakfast Bag" to take with you!
- Perfect logistics for equipment: Hate having to rinse your wetsuit in the shower cubicle? With us, you will have large outdoor spaces, plenty of fresh water to wash your equipment, and shaded areas where you can hang it to dry.
- Central Location: Today you explore the caves of Alghero, tomorrow the wrecks of Castelsardo. From us, you will reach them all easily.
- Well-deserved rest (with a night dip): After working hard underwater, the body requires rest. Imagine ending the day with a relaxing dip in our beautiful illuminated swimming pool, a luxury we reserve for our guests.
Prepare your mask, the blue of Sardinia awaits you.
👉 Organize your diving holiday: Check availability and book your room at Villa Malvasio.
