Where to eat, stay, yacht, and play in Sardinia

Floating solo in the Mediterranean, the island of Sardinia is separated from Italy in more ways than one. Its dialect, culture, and geography are each distinct from its mainland counterpart. However, food is one love language that 'the boot' and ‘the small continent’ share. 

Eating in Sardinia is an experience; at all meal times. Each mouthful is rich in flavour and the focus is on freshness - from the ingredients down to the setting. When visiting the island, you’ll never struggle to find an authentic trattoria serving everything from heaving pasta plates, to fresh seafood and suckling pig (a speciality of the island). Whatever dish you choose, most are made from recipes passed down for generations and drizzled in liquid gold - hand-pressed olive oil - to offer a world of flavours that’ll soothe your soul.

But what about when a meal is more than simply a time to eat? Perhaps when you’re marking a milestone or looking for a special restaurant to celebrate your time in paradise? In the seaside resort of Porto Cervo on the Costa Smeralda coast, Zuma provides top-tier Japanese cuisine while Novikov offers a small menu of Asian favourites.

Alternatively, sample Sardinian specialities alongside Mediterranean tapas at La Terrazze Ritual, a rooftop restaurant and bar located in the ruins of a centuries-old castle. For timeless charm and superb seafood, Il Pescatore Restaurant located in the port is an exceptional spot for lazy lunches and delicious dinners - the saffron lobster is a favourite of the head chef. And finally, Italo Bassi’s Confusion Restaurant is the only way to celebrate a special occasion. Boasting a Michelin star, your taste buds will dance with each mouthful.

Sardinia is more than just the jet-setter town of Costa Smeralda... but basing yourself here isn’t a bad idea. Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, is set on an idyllic corner of the coast, presenting a private beach and endless views of the emerald-green sea. It's well located for a host of activities, our favourite has to be hiring one of the hotel’s Fiat 500s to explore Sardinia at your leisure. 

Similarly, Hotel Cala di Volpe, a Luxury Collection Hotel is stretched across a scenic bay. At the resort’s centre is an expansive saltwater pool which has had a Dolce & Gabbana makeover in recent seasons. For the ultimate R&R, visit the Shiseido spa, or soak up the sun with a round of 18 at Pevero Golf Club. If travelling with children, Hotel Il Castello, Forte Village, is a great option with something for everyone and a laid-back atmosphere.

Sophie Azeem, our Administration Manager, spent time there in 2024. Click here to read her thoughts.

A great way to truly appreciate Sardinia’s beauty is from the water and chartering a yacht can be the perfect addition to your holiday. Explore the island’s coast, discovering hidden coves and secluded beaches while mooring at vibrant marinas and enjoying some world-class beach clubs.

For families, and those new to boating, a day trip is the perfect way to tip-toe into the waters. However, to truly soak up all that Sardinia’s topaz waves have to offer we recommend an overnight charter. Those with stronger sea legs could enjoy a seven-day tour of the Italian islands. 

With its chic restaurants and cafés, the charming harbour of Portisco is the ideal place to begin your charter. We recommend a leisurely sail to the stunning Maddalena Archipelago, a group of islands between Sardinia and Corsica, one of Italy’s best-kept secrets.

Here, you will find untouched bays and creeks, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Nearby are a range of other islands, but if you want to keep your venture short and sweet, head back to Sardinia's coast where a feast of fresh seafood awaits in one of many beachfront restaurants. Or, take advantage of the experienced crew and enjoy a personalised meal on board with only the ocean for company.

We’ve already mentioned dining on delicious cuisine, taking on the challenge of Pevero Golf Club, chartering a yacht and touring the island in a Fiat 500 (other cars are available) … and yet we haven’t even scratched the surface of what else there is to do on this beautiful Italian isle.

Rich in Bronze Age and Roman archaeology, there are plenty of ancient gems just waiting to dazzle history buffs. Scattered across the island, you’re bound to stumble across something mysterious during your stay. However, there are many fascinating sites in the capital Cagliari.

Alternatively, take to the water to spot dolphins, try paddleboarding, or enjoy a scenic boat trip to Neptune’s Grotto near Alghero. This scenic cave stretches for 4km and contains illuminated, cathedral-like chambers adorned with towering stalagmites and mesmerising stalactites. Other caves include Bue Marino Caves on the east coast and the inland Su Marmuri Cave near Ulassai. Don't forget to wear sensible shoes!

Exploring the island with a car is the best way to see its highlights… no plan or route required.  Each coastal road will enchant with its small gelaterias, artisanal boutiques – pick up a hand-loomed basket and thank us later – and hiking trails. Venture skywards to truly appreciate Sardinia’s beauty, and after a morning espresso or two, a sunrise hike has the potential to be a holiday highlight.

But of course, the best thing about Sardinia is its welcoming locals and laid-back atmosphere allowing you to holiday at your own pace. You have to visit to truly understand.