British Airways is launching a new route from London to a picture-perfect Italian beach destination this summer

Need to book a holiday to get you through this dreary London winter? Here’s just the thing: British Airways has announced a new direct route from London to a premier Italian beach destination for this summer.

The capital is getting a new service to the seaside city of Olbia in Sardinia. Olbia, for those not in-the-know, is best known as a beach paradise with white sands and the glittering Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s a gateway to Sardinia, offering easy access to the island’s many resorts, and about a half-hour drive from the majestic Costa Smeralda. 

BA’s new service will run twice a week, connecting Olbia with London Stansted. Launching on May 23 – just in time for spring half term – and lasting until September 27, one-way fares will start from £127. The two-and-a-half-hour flights will operate on Saturdays and Sundays. 

The Stansted service is the latest addition to BA’s range of options for flying from London to the historic Sardinian city. The UK’s national carrier already runs flights to Olbia from City and Heathrow airports. Flights from City to Olbia will also increase to up to five times per week during the summer.

Booking an Olbia trip? Here’s Time Out’s guide to the best hotels in Sardinia. Find out more about BA’s new service on the airline’s website here.