Italian Summer? Here’s Your Go-To Guide to Costa Smeralda

Most American travelers with plans to be in Italy this summer will flock to hotspots like Florence, Rome and the Amalfi Coast, causing large crowds, expensive flights and oftentimes inauthentic experiences. Located on the island of Sardinia on the northeast coast is Italy’s hidden gem. Costa Smeralda is an off-the-beaten-path, underrated destination for those who want the classic Italian Summer, without the annual seasonal rush.

Costa Smeralda, which boasts 34 miles of coastline, 22 immaculate beaches, and a slew of luxury dining, shopping, golf and sightseeing opportunities, is preserved by Consorzio Costa Smeralda. Founded in 1962, at the behest of Prince Karim Aga Khan, the Consortium was created to support planning and balancing urban and residential development within the territory. For over 60 years, the Consortium has enhanced the tourist destination by protecting the area's natural beauty.

WHERE TO STAY

• Hotel Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda - Potentially Costa Smeralda’s most iconic property, Hotel Romazzino offers exclusive access to one of the best private beaches on the island. Guests will constantly be surrounded by rocky cliffs and turquoise sea, whether it be while partaking in a private tennis lesson, engaging in watersports or experiencing true Sardinian wellness at the onsite spa. Dining experiences range from beach grill delicacies to Modern Italian cuisine.
• Hotel Cala di Volpe, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Costa Smeralda - This glamorous property situated over the bay provides travelers with gorgeous water views, exquisite dining experiences and pure relaxation. The hotel boasts one of the largest saltwater pools in the Mediterranean, and this season, they’ll be working with Dolce&Gabbana to transform the space into a luxury Mediterranean oasis. Guests can indulge in treatments at the Shiseido Spa, get a workout in at the onsite fitness center or choose from 8 dining facilities ranging from waterfront fine dining to poolside bites.
• Hotel Pitrizza - Designed in 1963 by Italian Architect, Luigi Vietti, Hotel Pitrizza features 49 charming guest suites, 16 luxury villas and an array of exciting amenities. Weary travelers can hit the spa for indulgent treatments and fitness opportunities, while athletes check out the tennis and padel courts. Younger travelers are welcomed at the Kid’s Club where outdoor games keep children entertained, in addition to the outdoor saltwater pool and private beach areas. After a long day in the sun, guests can visit The Grill for fresh delicacies inspired by the region.

WHERE TO EAT + DRINK

The Promenade Du Port is a foodie’s dream destination, offering a wide range of cuisine from authentic Italian to Argentinian to Japanese and more.

• El Porteño -  Taste authentic, rich Argentinian delicacies in Sardinia with the finest selections of Argentine meat, flavorful side dishes and Argentine and international wines.
• Italo Bassi Confusion Restaurant - Helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Italo Bassi, this well-adorned restaurant with an open kitchen offers diners local, authentic Sardinian meals featuring seafood, prime meats, oysters, caviar and more complemented by premier champagnes and fine wines.
• Bubble Bar & Bistrot - Located right in the center of the Promenade is Bubble Bar & Bistrot, aiming to serve the best raw ingredients and the best labels. Guests can sip al fresco on the terrace while enjoying tapas and overlooking the Porto Vecchio. Breakfast serves champagne and caviar, while sunset brings along refreshing cocktails.

The Marina di Porto Cervo is another foodie destination featuring waterfront dining and an array of flavors.

• Four Steps to the Fisherman - This restaurant, located on a terrace overlooking the sea, serves Two-Michelin-Star Argentinian Chef Antonio Mellino’s recipes including Linguine alla Nerano, Champagne or Magnum of Tiganenllo, Raw Seafood, Lobster and more.
• Novikov - Asian fusion dishes mix with local Sardinian flavors and ingredients at Novikov, situated in the heart of the Marina di Porto Cervo. Views of the bay and the open kitchen allow guests to gawk at the gorgeous views and impressive techniques of starred chefs. The lounge bar boasts a live DJ and refreshing cocktails, while the restaurant serves Tuna Tataki, Gazpacho King Crab and Soft Shell Crab salad.

WHAT TO DO

• On Water 
  • Beaches - The beaches are why summer travelers continue to choose Costa Smeralda. Here, sea, mountain and wilderness come together to create beautiful landscapes and panoramic views. Prince Karim Aga Khan, the founder of the Consortium of Costa Smeralda, noted Poltu di li Cogghi as his favorite beach due to its fine white sand and turquoise sea. The Spiaggia del Cervo is a hidden gem in Gallura, providing privacy and tranquility away from the noise, while Liscia Ruja attracts many travelers for its slightly pink sand.
• On Land
  • Pevero Health Trail - This walking trail is one of the best ways to see the picturesque sights of the Gallura coastline. The series of roads along the water's edge are named after plant species of the Mediterranean such as lavender, rosemary, citrus, and more. Along the way, walkers will find 11 fitness stations, a wellness pathway, rocky terrain and fresh aromas from the flora, all alongside gorgeous bay views that can be seen from any point. The destination boasts a variety of other hiking trails, as well including the Santa Maria Trail, which takes travelers through ancient Nuragic ruins and historical settlements, and Capo Caccia National Park Trail, best for beginner hikers and families and featuring views of the Gulf of Alghero.
  • Shopping - The Promenade du Port is home to some of the most high-end shopping in Italy. The strip features a mix of local Italian shops selling vintage items at Gioielleria Vintage, Italian footwear at Alevi, and linen and silk pieces at Bhagavan and international fashion labels such as Off White and Carter & White. The Marina di Porto Cervo is also a shopping oasis with the most prestigious designer brands such as Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Robert Cavalli and more, along with art galleries to stroll through, souvenir shops, and boutiques selling ceramics, jewelry and more.
  • Pevero Golf Club - Golfers can spend the day at Pevero Golf Club, designed by Robert Trend Jones and ranked among the top 50 courses in the world by Golf Magazine. The course is surrounded by emerald waters between the Pevero and Cala di Volpe bays. The club partnered with Open Champion and Ryder Cup Star, Francesco Molinari to provide The Francesco Molinari Golf Academy, offering programs and lessons for all ages. The Club also boasts an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and dining facilities.