Long a playground for Italy’s A-listers, the five-star development of the Costa Smeralda in the 1960s reshaped Sardinia’s economy and its image. If your trip to Sardinia includes this stretch of coast, be ready to pay for it.
The beaches are undeniably gorgeous, but budget options are hard to come by, and most of the luxury hotels feel fairly soulless. For more character (and better prices), base yourself in Arzachena or Cannigione, and explore the coast from there.
The Costa Smeralda begins about 12km north of Olbia and is defined as the 10km strip between the gulfs of Cugnana and Arzachena. Although strict rules were imposed to prevent overzealous development – you won’t see any multistorey hotels, advertising hoardings or fast-food restaurants – the area has little in common with the rest of Sardinia, and the luxurious holiday villages have a bland, almost suburban feel. This hasn’t stopped the mega-rich from coming in droves – Silvio Berlusconi owns six properties here.
Want to get the perfect Sardinia experience? Follow our itinerary day by day. Also, don't miss the opportunity to choose a place to stay that fits your needs.
Top image: Marina of Porto Cervo, Costa Smeralda, Italy © LPuddori/Shutterstock
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