Sardinia in Style: Why This Mediterranean Gem Should Be Your Next Escape

With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, secluded coves and exclusive resorts, Sardinia offers a Mediterranean experience that holds its own from mainland Italy, also noted as one of the five original ‘blue zones’ with the healthiest and longest living populations. Whether you're sipping Vermentino on a private yacht, hiking rugged trails, dining barefoot on the beach, taking a mountain bike adventure or unwinding in a village taverna soaking up the picturesque views, your time here feels effortless and authentic.

So, is it time to indulge in Sardinia? Whether it’s a short break for some one-on-one time as a couple or a much-needed family escape to unwind from the everyday, here we discover how glamour meets natural beauty in perfect harmony.

To the North

Dancing along the northern coast of Sardinia, you will find the glamorous Costa Smeralda, with its pristine white-sand beaches lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters, exclusive resorts, and world-class dining. Chic coastal towns like Porto Cervo exude sophistication, with designer boutiques, upscale marinas and a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere. Beyond the glamour, the region is rich in culture and history, with charming villages, ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes waiting to be explored. Venture inland, where San Pantaleo’s markets open up a world of arts and crafts, explore the chasm of narrow cobblestone streets, flanked by pretty stone houses. Here, you will find cafés and restaurants that spill onto the ancient streets. Where better to sit and enjoy your morning coffee or an evening aperitif?

Porto Cervo

Porto Cervo, nestled along this coastline boasts a dazzling blend of natural beauty and luxury. Once a quiet fishing village, it transformed in the 1960s into a playground for the elite, thanks to the vision of Prince Karim Aga Khan. Today, it’s a magnet for those seeking sun-kissed beaches, designer boutiques and exquisite high-level dining. The Piazzetta is the heart of the village, lined with flagship stores from brands like Gucci, Prada and Valentino, while the marina is a hotspot for the international yachting crowd, showcasing gleaming superyachts and lively cafés and VIP beach clubs.

Hotel we love: Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel

Baja Sardinia

Perched on the edge of the famous Costa Smeralda, Baja Sardinia takes a different stance from neighbouring Porto Cervo. Bringing a modern edge to this corner of the coastline, with a more relaxed and laid-back social scene and an understated luxury running through this beautiful bay. Home to crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches with sweeping views of the archipelago of La Maddalena, it's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying water sports in a more relaxed setting than some of the busier parts of the Costa Smeralda. With its proximity to its upscale neighbour, Baja Sardinia provides easy access to explore its luxury marinas, designer boutiques and upscale dining. Baja Sardinia retains a local charm where you’ll find traditional Sardinian cuisine, welcoming locals and lively piazzas, particularly in the evenings. Spend some time at the La Maddalena archipelago, a protected marine area inviting you to explore its many secluded coves by boat or discover its many coastal trails by bike, stopping off to sample the local cuisine or a supercharged coffee and sweet pastry delight.

Hotel we love: 7Pines Resort Sardinia

To the South

For a more tranquil and authentic luxury escape, head to southern Sardinia, perfect for those seeking understated elegance and natural beauty. This unspoiled region boasts sweeping golden beaches, crystal-clear waters and serene landscapes, all far from the crowds. Rich in history and culture, southern Sardinia invites you to explore ancient ruins, traditional villages and local cuisine rooted in centuries-old traditions, all while enjoying the refined comforts and warm hospitality that define a truly luxurious getaway.

Cagliari

Cagliari, the vibrant capital of Sardinia, offers an enchanting mix of culture, coastline and laid-back charm that the Med is famous for, making it a fantastic holiday destination. Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, this historic city is rich in character, with a maze of cobbled streets, ancient Roman ruins and ancient architecture in the old town of Castello. Beyond its cultural appeal, Cagliari boasts beautiful urban beaches like Poetto, where you can unwind by the turquoise waters just minutes from the city centre. Add in delicious local cuisine, lively markets and a welcoming atmosphere, and Cagliari becomes an ideal base for exploring southern Sardinia while soaking up authentic island life.

Exclusive resorts offer privacy and comfort, often set against the backdrop of rolling hills or tucked along quiet stretches of coastline. Venture out for delectable wine tasting tours, discovering the plentiful bounty of Sardinia’s wines. The robust red Cannonau is renowned for its high antioxidant content and rumoured to contribute to good health and longevity. It’s even been linked to Sardinia’s impressive population of blue zone centenarians!

Hotel we love: Forte Village Resort

From the glamour of Costa Smeralda to the unspoiled beauty of the south, every corner offers something unique and invites you to explore a very unexpected Italian isle. A holiday in Sardinia isn’t just a trip – it’s an experience of authentic Italian charm, where the pace slows, the food tastes richer and the sea sparkles just a little brighter. Wherever you choose to stay, Sardinia promises memories that linger long after the sun has set.