The Couple's Guide to Sardinia

Take to the water

Sardinia is all about the clear blue water, but look beyond a day at the beach; go scuba diving or snorkeling and see for yourself what lies beneath the pristine water. You will be amazed by the colorful fish, coral and even World War II shipwrecks.

Where to stay

The romantic resort hotel Aquadulci in the southern part of the island is near to some of Sardinia’s best dive sites. The beautiful Chia beach is just a short stroll away.

Where to eat

Dinner in the candlelit garden at the Ristorante Bithia is impossibly romantic. Try the mixed seafood with fregola, a special type of Sardinian pasta.

Romance like a millionaire

Porto Cervo on the fabled Costa Smerelda is the place where some of the world’s most luxurious yachts come for designer label shopping at one of the many boutiques or for glittering nightlife at the town’s famous hotspots. Porto Cervo has a royal feel, and was created by Prince Karim Aga Khan. Come here to rub elbows with international jet setters, book a couple’s massage at an indulgent spa, and window shop for some golf ball-sized baubles.

Where to stay

Be at the center of the action at the Cervo Hotel, located near the marina. The guest rooms are simply decorated with crisp white linens and terracotta floors, and there is even a private beach.

Where to eat

If there is a time and place to splash out and have a memorable meal, this is it. The Restaurant at Aqualounge at the historic Yacht Club Costa Smeralda is the place to see and be seen.

City break

Cagliari is the island’s capital city, and in local Sardinian dialect is known as Casteddu, which means castle. The town is an eclectic hodgepodge of architecture and history, and has been inhabited for over 5,000 years. Start at the National Archaeological Museum and get a sense of this long history. After a day of touring, grab a glass of Cannonau in the Castello district or go dancing at a nightclub at the nearby Poetta beach.

Where to stay

The Hotel Villa Sveva is just on the edge of town and sits right on Poetta beach. Start your day here with an Italian style breakfast before your day of sightseeing.

Where to eat

A day of museums and culture can work up an appetite. The popular Ristorante Antica Cagliari in the center of town will make sure you don’t go to bed hungry. Fresh seafood and local wines are the specialties here.

Watch a sunset

The wide open spaces on the island make for some really spectacular sunsets. Get ready to snap the fiery reds and soft pinks as the sun sinks beyond the horizon. Avoid the crowds at the quiet beach near Argentiera, an almost abandoned, former silver mining town near Sassari. If you prefer your sunset with a glass of wine or a cocktail, Alghero has some lovely choices. After a stroll along the Bastioni Marco Polo stop in at one of the bars along the scenic city walls.

Where to stay

The seafront location of the Art Nouveau villa turned hotel, Villa Mosca, has amazing views out towards Capo Caccia. You’re also in easy reach of all of Alghero’s old world attractions from here.

Where to eat

Settle into one of the intimate rooms in the relaxed restaurant, Al Tuguri. This is a place that takes its food and the island’s traditions pretty seriously so plan on ordering multiple courses.

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Vineyard visit

From granite soils with sea breezes near Olbia to the interior mountainous regions, Sardinia has some incredible vineyards which produce some excellent wines. Learn all about wine varieties you have probably never even heard of before with names like Cannonau, Muristellu and Nuragus on a day long wine tour. Spend your day trekking though the vines and visiting the cellars, remember to leave room in your luggage for a few bottles to toast your romantic outing.

Where to stay

Nestled in the hills above the Gulf of Arzachena, this full service resort is a relaxing retreat from the nearby busy city of Olbia. With a quiet, romantic vibe, you can relax in the on-site spa or take a bike ride around the grounds.

Where to eat

Stick with the grape theme and have dinner at Bacchus. Its modern design and contemporary takes on local dishes are perfect compliments to an incredible wine list.

Adrenaline rush

Sardinia’s diverse landscape has dramatic terrain perfect for exploring. Get your blood moving with canyoning or sea kayaking, and see the wild side of the island with a day spent on the ropes at the immense granite Sa Spendula canyon, with breaks in cool natural pools. Paddling in a kayak is also a unique way to see the coastline; you can even get to picturesque tiny coves that are unreachable by foot or boat.

Where to stay

The beachfront Baia di Nora is close to several of Nora’s archeological spots, has two pools — one with a swim-up bar and another with jacuzzi jets — and its own private beach. Many of the rooms open onto a lush garden area.

Where to eat

Su Furriadroxu is a rustic locale in the town of Pula and serves up typical Sardinian dishes, such as like cheese and charcuterie boards and porceddu, a slow fire roasted suckling pig that is an island speciality. There is also usually traditional folk music and dancing in the courtyard on summer evenings.