Costa Smeralda: The Jewel Of Sardinia Holidays

If you’re looking the kind of luxury getaway that many people just dream of, one stunning destination to consider is the Italian island of Sardinia. Holidays on the Costa Smeralda are popular with celebrities and other affluent visitors, but don’t worry, you don’t have to be a millionaire to visit this gorgeous part of the island.

About Costa Smeralda

Costa Smeralda, as the name implies, is a coastal area about 20 kilometres long. Located in northern Sardinia, holidays here are depicted in travel and lifestyle magazines as the last word in luxury – complete with with white sand beaches, golf clubs, private jet and helicopter services, and exclusive hotels. Regular clientele include celebrities, business leaders and high-profile European politicians. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine beaches, untouched nature reserves and luxurious accommodations, Costa Smeralda is definitely a high-end resort, with facilities including designer boutiques, high-end spas, golf clubs and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Porto Cervo

Built in the 60s as a retreat for the rich and famous, Porto Cervo, the premier town of Costa Smeralda, can be rather expensive, but it’s the best place to enjoy the ambience of this jewel of Sardinia. Holidays spent here may set you back quite a bit, but if you’re looking for coolness, glamour and luxury, it’s well worth it.

The spectacular Cala de Volpe Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you’re looking for the full on "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" experience and you're willing to pay the price - especially during peak season. But there are plenty of other, less pricey, alternatives.

Where to Go

The Porto Cervo marina is a great place to start your exploration of the sights. You'll have to do a lot of walking, as public transport is almost non-existent, though a few taxis can be had - at a price. Other sightseeing points of interest are Abbiadori, a café high above the water at Cala di Volpe, or the open-air Nikki Beach, where everyone goes to see and be seen. Souvenir shopping can be quite expensive in this area, but there are plenty of affordable gifts like fabrics, crafts and food that can be found away from the centre of expensive Porto Cervo.

Arzachena’s Costa Smeralda Archaeological Park is one of the largest and most significant parks in Sardinia. Holidays to the island are not complete without enjoying some art, history and culture, and this region will afford you all three. Costa Smeralda Archaeological Park exhibits includes eight monuments of pre-historic age, covering almost 5000 years of history, starting from the middle Neolithic Age to the Bronze Age. You should also seek out the Albucciu Nuraghe, the Giants’ tombs and the many temples.

For more sightseeing, check out the twin beaches of Capriccioli. They can get quite busy, however, so do try to visit early. Further up the coast you'll find the Spiaggia Romazzino and Spiaggia Pevero – both well worth visiting.

Carolyn Spinks is COO of ABTOI - The Association of British Travel Organisers to Italy. Looking for the perfect Sardinia holidays? The LoveItaly website provides destination information, contact details of tour operator members to help you plan the best Italian holiday, ‘insider’ tips, year round special offers and information on everything from beach holidays in Sardinia, cycling in Sicily, to a wedding or honeymoon in Tuscany.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.