Discover the Best Hotels in Sardinia

Mention Sardinia to people, and most will conjure up visions of the Costa Smeralda, the rugged stretch of limpid, azure waters and powder-soft white sand on the north-east coast of the island. The area was ‘discovered’ by Prince Karium Aga Khan IV in the early 1960s; these days billionaire jet-setters, royals and stars such as the Clooneys are drawn to the coast by its five-star hotels, designer shopping, dining scene and, of course, its ravishing natural beauty.

Uncovering Sardinia’s Hidden Gems

However, there is much more to Sardinia than this immaculate (some would say too immaculate) strip of the coast. For starters, the contorted 1,850 km coastline boasts more gorgeous beaches than any other part of Italy. Towns and cities worth exploring include:

• Cagliari: The capital located in the south, known for its vibrant culture.
• Alghero: A bustling medieval city on the northwest coast with a distinctly Spanish vibe due to its Catalan history.
• Bosa: A colorful village located to the south of Alghero, offering scenic views and rich history.

Rich History and Culinary Delights

Sardinia is Europe’s oldest landmass, and consequently, a wealth of archaeological remains are dotted throughout the wild hinterland. Here, you can discover over 7,000 nuraghi (remnants of the ancient, mysterious Nuragic civilization) and the infamous tombs known as “tombe dei giganti.” Moreover, the culinary experiences are unforgettable, featuring local specialties such as:

• Porceddu: Whole spit-roasted suckling piglet.
• Cazu marzu: A unique cheese often referred to as maggot-infested sheep’s cheese.
• Vermentino and Cannonau: Local wines worth tasting.

The bizarre folk festivals and the elusive albino donkeys indigenous to the Isola dell’Asinara add vitality to the island’s culture. D.H. Lawrence once wrote that “Sardinia is out of time and history; this land resembles no other place,” and indeed, it maintains a unique charm.

How We Choose the Best Hotels in Sardinia

Every hotel featured in this guide has been selected independently by our editors, offering insights from experts who have actual experience with the properties. When choosing hotels, various aspects are considered including:

• Luxury properties alongside boutique and lesser-known boltholes.
• A focus on beautiful design and great locations.
• Warm service and sustainability credentials.

This list is regularly updated as new hotels open and existing ones evolve, ensuring you always get the latest recommendations.

Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda