Wary of sea-bound threats, islanders on Sardinia long avoided settling near the coast, but today’s visitors can frolic in the sea with abandon – and much of the Italian island’s finest accommodation takes full advantage of the remarkably unspoilt coastline.
In the 1960s, the Aga Khan – leader of the world’s Ismaili Muslims and savvy businessman – saw potential in Sardinia’s northeast coastline and proceeded to make it a playground for the rich and famous. Stays on Italy’s second-largest island have had the air of the high life ever since. The charms of the Aga Khan’s favoured patch – the glittering Costa Smeralda – are undimmed to this day, and some of the best Sardinian hotels are in this northeast corner. But if ever an island bore exploration, it’s Sardinia – so we’ve picked out gems at all points of the compass, bookable now with Culture Trip.
This five-star oceanfront resort is set back from 1.5km (1mi) of private coastline that dances between rugged coves and lovely, parasol-specked beaches. The resort combines two sections stretching across a landscape of granite and Italian macchia shrubland: the Hotel Erica and the even more charming Hotel La Licciola, where an emphasis on Galluran design enhances the already harmonious sense of place. While this is Costa Smeralda country, there’s so much more to see in these parts than the millionaires’ yachts; excursions range from the Maddalena Archipelago to the culture-rich Galluran hinterland. Sip a sundowner on the terrace with Corsica glowering in the distance and then choose from one of the resort’s seven restaurants. Infinity pools and a large thalassotherapy spa seal the deal.
The four-star “Falcon’s Bay” resort occupies a gorgeous spot at the edge of the balmy Golfo di Arzachena, beyond the mouth of which spreads the Maddalena Archipelago. Defining itself as a resort, Cala di Falco boasts all the facilities that the word implies – including a tennis court, pool and outdoor gym – just with none of the downsides. The architecture is restrained and the landscaping verdant, with the property melding into the fragrant shrubland that surrounds it. The rooms and suites are coolly furnished, with plenty of local influence, both in design and materials. Step outside the resort for easy beach access or a stroll round laid-back Cannigione.
Located northwest of Olbia in the small village of Pittulongu, Hotel Abbaruja offers 16 rustically stylish ensuite rooms, some enjoying panoramic ocean views. Breakfast is served as a buffet, and there’s a veranda-facing reading room where you can while away a balmy afternoon or two. There’s no swimming pool, but the local beach is just 150m (492ft) from the hotel, meaning that a cooling dip is always within reach.
Villa Las Tronas Hotel and Spa occupies a marvellously stately villa, perched on a private headland, just outside the centre of Alghero. Formerly an Italian royal holiday residence, the hotel’s 24 rooms and suites do the old place’s aristocratic heritage proud, as does the gorgeous ocean-facing swimming pool. You can walk to the beach or into Alghero in a matter of minutes – head into town for dinner one evening and try the local speciality paella algherese, a fine introduction to the town’s Catalan past.
Tucked tightly into Sardinia’s northwestern-most tip, Hotel Cala Reale does the basics very well, without frills or fuss. After all, the real star here lies just a few kilometres down the road – the heavenly La Pelosa Beach, with its powdery white sand and startlingly turquoise waters, is served by a regular shuttle bus to and from the hotel. If you prefer your water chlorinated, there are two swimming pools on site, along with a pair of tennis courts and bike rentals. Some rooms have sea views, and Stintino village centre is within easy walking distance.
Located in Costa Rei, amid a huge and wonderful natural park, this luxury hotel ticks all the right boxes. It boasts a private beach with a bar, where it is possible to have lunch with fresh local ingredients or an aperitivo while contemplating the horizon. There’s also an infinity pool, which merges seamlessly into the blue of the sea, wonderfully decorated and ornamented rooms with all the fittings anyone could dream of, and staff who are cordial and extremely accommodating.
Hotel Costa Dei Fiori lies on the wonderful southern coast of the island, in Santa Margherita di Pula – a 45-minute drive from Cagliari. It boasts a spellbinding infinity pool, a free shuttle service to the beautiful Chia Beach and a range of suites perfect for romantic holidays and memorable honeymoons. Dine by candlelight, indulge in a couples massage or order breakfast in bed – the hot croissants and local honey are delicious.
Located on the Marina di Castelsardo seafront, under the walls of a Castle in Castelsardo, this is a spa hotel with some serious beach vibes – it’s steps away from an enticing stretch of white sand. Compliment your beach day by feasting on a selection of fresh, Sardinian seafood at their swanky Fofò Restaurant. As well as a full spa service, thoughtful touches such as a pillow menu, freebie slippers and complimentary toiletries add up to a full-scale pampering experience.
Residenza d’Epoca Regina d’Arborea is a 19th-century historic residence that’s considered one of the greatest expressions of Sardinian construction. With frescos and interior decorations dating back to 1880, it’s not your usual stay in Sardinia, that’s for sure. The bedrooms are richly decorated with the original furniture of the house, giving your stay a museum-like quality. Breakfast features local produce and is beautifully presented on antique china.
This luxurious beachside resort, surrounded by a tranquil pine forest, will instantly make you feel relaxed. Clean design and muted tones blend seamlessly with the natural environment to ensure a zen-like feel to your stay. Roll out of your room and onto a private sandy beach, a short walk away. Wellness is key at this resort with a superb selection of treatments, outdoor pool, Turkish bath, whirlpool plus yoga and Pilates lessons.
La Peonia Boutique B&B is a family-run bed and breakfast with a romantic, neoclassical facade. Find out what to see and do in the surrounding city of Cagliari by asking the multilingual staff. Breakfast is Mediterranean and is best enjoyed in the stylish garden.
Small on size but big on boutique beach style, Hotel Capo is a 14-room hotel with modern suites around a cosy, communal courtyard and pool. Relax amongst the palms, hanging chairs and a pool bar. Take a stroll through the peaceful pine forest and emerge on a golden sand beach.
This laid-back, beachside hotel has had extensive renovations and is perfectly set amongst acacia trees. Relax in their understated rooms, complete with private terraces and splashes of bold colour. It’s also conveniently located between the popular Poetto Beach and the flamingo-populated Molentargius salt lakes. Hotel residents can experience a range of water sports in the area, drink at busy Plan B or enjoy the local bathhouses.
Five-star Hotel Il Castello oozes Sardinian sophistication and uber-contemporary design. Tranquillity is the default mode here, with soft piano music, the breaking of waves and a gentle hum of the thalassotherapy pool. It has the hushed-tone feel that comes with a truly luxurious stay. For sea views, sink into their heated infinity pool and gaze out over the sea.
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