Blog - Food And Wine

There are places you visit once and immediately understand why people keep coming back. Costa Smeralda is one of them. Stretching along the northeastern coast of Sardinia, Costa Smeralda is known for its turquoise water, beautiful beaches, elegant hotels, restaurants and glamorous summer atmosphere. But there is more to the area than Porto Cervo, designer boutiques and waterfront aperitivi. The real appeal of Costa Smeralda is the variety of experiences you can have here. You can spend the morning swimming in a quiet cove, have lunch overlooking the sea, sail along the coast in the afternoon and finish the day with a long dinner under the stars. And if you choose the right place to stay, you can experience all of this at your own pace. Whether you are visiting Costa Smeralda for the first time or returning to Sardinia, this guide will help you make the most of your stay.

WHERE IS COSTA SMERALDA?

Costa Smeralda, meaning “Emerald Coast”, is located in the northeast of Sardinia, in the area of Gallura. The coastline stretches for roughly 55 kilometres and includes some of the island's most famous destinations, including Porto Cervo, Porto Rotondo, Cala di Volpe, Liscia di Vacca, Cannigione and Poltu Quatu. Olbia is the main gateway to the area. Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is around 30–40 minutes by car from Porto Cervo, depending on traffic and your exact destination. One of the best things about the area is that you do not have to choose between a relaxing beach holiday and a more lively luxury experience. They are often just a short drive, boat trip or scenic coastal road away from each other.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT COSTA SMERALDA?

The traditional summer season runs from June through September, with July and August being the busiest months. If you want the classic Costa Smeralda experience, with beach clubs, restaurants, events and a lively atmosphere, July and August are hard to beat. But there is another side to the area that is often overlooked.

June: June is a wonderful time to visit if you want warm weather and beautiful beaches without the busiest summer crowds. The landscape is still incredibly green, and the days are long enough to enjoy plenty of time outdoors.

July and August: These are the heart of the season. The atmosphere is energetic, restaurants and beach clubs are in full swing, and the coastline comes alive. It is also when demand for the best villas and experiences is at its highest, so planning ahead is particularly important.

September: For many travellers, September is the sweet spot. The sea is still warm, temperatures are generally more comfortable, and the pace begins to slow down. You can enjoy the same beautiful coastline without quite the same intensity of the peak season. If your idea of a luxury holiday involves long lunches, quiet mornings by the pool and evenings that do not need to be rushed, September can be particularly appealing.

THE BEST BEACHES IN COSTA SMERALDA

You could spend an entire holiday exploring the beaches around Costa Smeralda, and still have more to discover.

Here are some of the places worth adding to your list.

Spiaggia del Principe: Often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, Spiaggia del Principe is famous for its clear water, pale sand and natural surroundings. It is the kind of beach that looks almost unreal in photographs, but is even more impressive when you see it in person. Arrive early if you are visiting during the busiest part of summer. The beach is popular for a reason.

Capriccioli: Capriccioli is made up of several small coves surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and granite rocks. The water is shallow and exceptionally clear, making it a good choice for families as well as anyone looking for a beautiful, relaxed swim.

La Celvia: Located close to Capriccioli, La Celvia is another classic Costa Smeralda beach. It is particularly beautiful in the morning, when the light catches the water and the surrounding rocks.

Cala di Volpe: The area around Cala di Volpe is one of the most recognisable stretches of coastline in Costa Smeralda. The bay is beautiful from the shore, but seeing it from the water gives you an entirely different perspective. And this brings us to one of the best ways to experience the coast.

SEE COSTA SMERALDA FROM THE SEA

If there is one experience we would recommend adding to your itinerary, it is a day on the water. Costa Smeralda was made to be explored by boat. From the sea, you can reach small coves that are difficult to access by land, stop for a swim wherever the water looks too inviting to resist and see the coastline from a completely different perspective. A private yacht or boat charter also gives you something that can be difficult to find during the busiest months: flexibility. You decide where to go, when to stop and how long to stay. You might spend the morning around the Maddalena Archipelago, stop for lunch at sea, swim in a secluded cove and return to Costa Smeralda in time for sunset. It is less about ticking places off a list and more about enjoying the day.

PORTO CERVO: MORE THAN SHOPPING

Porto Cervo is the best-known destination in Costa Smeralda and, for many visitors, their first introduction to the area. The town was developed in the 1960s and has become synonymous with luxury tourism in Sardinia. You will find designer boutiques, galleries, restaurants, bars and the famous Piazzetta. But it is worth taking some time simply to walk around. The architecture, with its curved lines, pastel colours and Mediterranean influences, gives Porto Cervo a character that feels quite different from other Sardinian towns. And while the shopping and nightlife attract plenty of visitors, you do not need to spend your entire day there. A morning walk, an aperitivo overlooking the marina or an evening dinner can be enough to experience the atmosphere before heading somewhere quieter.

PORTO ROTONDO

About 20 kilometres from Porto Cervo, Porto Rotondo has a slightly different personality. It is elegant but more intimate, with a charming centre, a marina and several restaurants and cafés. It is also a convenient base for exploring beaches on the northeastern coast. If you are staying in the area for several days, Porto Rotondo is worth visiting even if Porto Cervo is already on your itinerary.

WHERE TO EAT IN COSTA SMERALDA

Food is an important part of any Sardinian holiday, and Costa Smeralda offers plenty of choice. You can find everything from traditional Sardinian cooking to sophisticated Mediterranean cuisine and international restaurants. But don't feel that every meal needs to be a fine-dining experience. Some of the best moments can be much simpler: fresh seafood, handmade pasta, local cheeses, a glass of Vermentino and a table outside as the sun goes down.

TRY LOCAL SARDINIAN FLAVOURS

When you are in Sardinia, make room for some of the island's traditional dishes.

Depending on the restaurant and season, look for:

• Culurgiones
• Fregola with seafood
• Malloreddus
• Fresh local fish
• Seadas
• Sardinian cheeses
• Pane carasau
• Gallura specialities

And, of course, try a glass of Vermentino di Gallura. Wine is deeply connected to the territory here, and visiting a local winery can be a wonderful way to experience a different side of Gallura.

LUXURY EXPERIENCES BEYOND THE BEACH

One of the biggest mistakes you can make in Costa Smeralda is thinking that the experience starts and ends at the beach. There is plenty to do beyond swimming and sunbathing.

Private chef experience: Imagine returning to your villa after a day on the water and having dinner prepared for you without needing to leave the house. A private chef can create a menu around your preferences, from traditional Sardinian dishes to a more contemporary dining experience. It is particularly special for families and groups, because everyone can enjoy dinner together without having to organise a restaurant reservation.

Wine tasting:  Gallura is home to some excellent wineries. A private wine tasting or visit to a local vineyard allows you to discover the wines of the region while meeting the people behind them. It is also a nice way to slow down for an afternoon.

Yacht charter: We mentioned it already, but it deserves another place on the list. A private boat day can completely change the way you experience Costa Smeralda. Instead of asking which beach you should visit, you can simply follow the coastline and stop wherever you feel like swimming.

Wellness and spa experiences: After a day in the sun, a massage or private wellness treatment can be the perfect way to unwind. Depending on your accommodation and location, treatments can sometimes be arranged at your villa, meaning you do not even need to leave your own space.

Explore the Maddalena Archipelago:  Just north of Costa Smeralda lies the Maddalena Archipelago, a collection of islands known for their extraordinary landscapes and crystal-clear water. A boat trip is the ideal way to explore the area, with stops at places such as La Maddalena, Caprera, Spargi and Budelli. The scenery changes constantly as you move between the islands, and the colours of the sea can be almost impossible to believe.

What to do in the evening: Costa Smeralda has a reputation for nightlife, but you do not have to spend your evenings in a crowded club. There are plenty of different ways to enjoy the area after sunset.

• Have an aperitivo overlooking the marina.
• Enjoy dinner on a terrace.
• Take a walk through Porto Cervo.
• Book a table at a restaurant specialising in local cuisine.
• Or simply stay at your villa, open a bottle of wine and watch the sunset.

Sometimes the most memorable evening is the one you did not plan.

WHERE SHOULD YOU STAY IN COSTA SMERALDA?

Where you stay can make a surprisingly big difference to your experience. Hotels can be a great choice if you prefer having restaurants, reception services and amenities immediately around you. But a private villa offers something different. You have your own space, your own pool, more privacy and the flexibility to structure your days however you want. For families and groups travelling together, villas can also make it much easier to spend time together while still having plenty of room to relax independently. And with the right concierge service, staying in a villa does not mean giving up the convenience of a hotel. Private chefs, boat charters, transfers, restaurant reservations and other experiences can all be organised around your stay. The result is a holiday that feels personal rather than predetermined.

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN COSTA SMERALDA?

If this is your first visit, we recommend allowing at least five to seven days. That gives you enough time to explore the coastline without spending the entire holiday in the car.

A typical week could look something like this:

Day 1: Arrive in Sardinia and settle into your villa.

Day 2: Explore Porto Cervo and spend the afternoon at one of the nearby beaches.

Day 3: Private boat day along Costa Smeralda or to the Maddalena Archipelago.

Day 4: A slower day by the pool, followed by a private chef dinner or restaurant experience.

Day 5: Explore Porto Rotondo and nearby beaches.

Day 6: Visit a local winery or discover the inland side of Gallura.

Day 7: One last beach morning and a relaxed lunch before departure.

Of course, the beauty of staying in a villa is that you can change the plan whenever you want. If you love the beach, stay at the beach. If you wake up wanting to spend the entire day on the boat, do that instead.

A FEW PRACTICAL TIPS FOR VISITING COSTA SMERALDA

Book popular restaurants in advance: During July and August, the most sought-after restaurants can fill up quickly. If there is somewhere you particularly want to try, do not wait until the last minute.

Reserve your boat day early: Private charters are among the most popular experiences during summer, and availability can become limited during peak weeks.

Rent a car: A car gives you much more freedom to explore the coastline and discover beaches and restaurants beyond your immediate area.

Do not underestimate driving times: The distances may look short on a map, but summer traffic can make journeys considerably longer. This is especially important if you have restaurant reservations or activities booked at a specific time.

Leave some space in your itinerary:  This might be the most important tip of all. Do not plan every hour. Costa Smeralda is at its best when you have time to stop for a swim because the water looks beautiful, stay for one more glass of wine or change your plans because you have discovered somewhere you want to explore.

IS COSTA SMERALDA WORTH VISITING?

Absolutely, but perhaps not for the reasons you expect. Yes, the beaches are spectacular. Yes, Porto Cervo is glamorous. Yes, there are exceptional restaurants, beautiful villas and some of the most exclusive experiences in Sardinia. But what makes Costa Smeralda special is the combination of all these things with the landscape and the slower rhythm of island life. You can have a completely polished luxury experience without losing the feeling that you are actually in Sardinia. And perhaps that is the best way to experience Costa Smeralda: not by trying to see everything, but by choosing a few experiences that matter to you and giving yourself enough time to enjoy them.

READY TO EXPERIENCE COSTA SMERALDA YOUR WAY?

The best Sardinian holidays are rarely the ones where every detail follows a fixed itinerary. They are the ones where everything feels effortless. A beautiful villa waiting for you when you arrive. A boat ready for a day on the water. A table reserved at the right restaurant. A private chef preparing dinner at home. And someone on hand to help with the details whenever you need them.

At Sardinia Unlimited, we help guests discover Costa Smeralda through carefully selected villas and personalised experiences, creating holidays that feel as individual as the people travelling.

Explore our villas in Costa Smeralda and start planning your Sardinian escape.

  The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Costa Smeralda : Read More

Sardinia is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. It’s not just a destination, it’s a feeling. A mix of wild nature, deep-rooted traditions, and effortless beauty that unfolds slowly, revealing something new every day.

So, what is Sardinia famous for? The short answer would be beaches, food, and luxury villas. But the real answer goes much deeper. Let’s explore what truly makes this Mediterranean island so special.

CRYSTAL-CLEAR BEACHES THAT RIVAL THE CARIBBEAN

If there’s one thing Sardinia is known for worldwide, it’s its beaches. Think powdery white sand, transparent turquoise waters, and hidden coves framed by rugged cliffs.

From the iconic shores of Costa Smeralda to the untouched beauty of Costa Paradiso, secluded beaches like Cala Goloritzè and Cala Mariolu, and the famous La Pelosa beach in Stintino, Sardinia offers a coastline that feels almost unreal. What makes it even more special is the variety. Whether you’re looking for lively beach clubs or secluded spots where you can hear nothing but the waves, you’ll find your perfect place.

Even better? Step away from peak season, and many of these beaches feel like your own private paradise.

A CULTURE THAT FEELS AUTHENTIC AND UNTOUCHED

Sardinia is not just another Italian island; it has its own identity, traditions, and even language. Life here moves at a different pace, one that invites you to slow down and truly connect with your surroundings.

You’ll see it in the small villages, where locals gather in the piazza. You’ll feel it during traditional festivals, with music, costumes, and rituals passed down through generations. And you’ll taste it in the food, which is deeply tied to the land and its history.

This authenticity is one of Sardinia’s greatest luxuries.

  What Is Sardinia Famous For? A Journey Through the Island’s True Essence : Read More

Sardinia is an island that captivates with its authenticity. From the wild beauty of its landscapes to the richness of its traditional cuisine, every corner of the land holds an ancient story, made of simple gestures and intense flavors. Here, true luxury is crafted from genuine raw materials, inherited craftsmanship, and timeless atmospheres.

If you're planning a vacation in Sardinia, perhaps staying in one of our panoramic villas with a pool, don't forget to dedicate some time to shopping for local products. We're not talking about simple souvenirs, but authentic masterpieces of tradition, perfect for savoring at home or gifting to loved ones.

Here’s a guide to the best typical Sardinian products to buy during your stay.

  The Best Local Products to Buy in Sardinia: Authentic Treasures to Take Home : Read More

Sardinia is a land of ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and a unique atmosphere that makes it a perfect destination all year round. At Easter, the island comes alive with colors and rituals deeply rooted in history, offering an authentic and unforgettable experience. Suppose you wish to celebrate Easter in an exclusive setting, surrounded by comfort and luxury. In that case, our handpicked villas are the perfect choice to embrace the magic of Sardinian spring in total relaxation.  

An Authentic Experience of Tradition and Spirituality 

Easter in Sardinia is a deeply heartfelt event, marked by intense and spectacular religious celebrations. One of the most moving rituals is *S’Incontru*, the reenactment of the meeting between the Virgin Mary and the Risen Christ, held in many towns and villages across the island, including Cagliari, Alghero, Sassari, and Oliena. The processions, with their evocative settings, traditional costumes, and sacred chants, create a solemn and emotionally rich atmosphere.  

Another significant moment of Sardinian Easter is Holy Week, during which a series of rituals and celebrations engage entire communities. The Good Friday processions, in particular, are among the most striking: participants dressed in traditional attire carry sacred statues through the historic town centers, accompanied by moving chants and the heartfelt participation of the local people.  

Beyond religious events, Easter is also a time of togetherness, where families gather to share meals rich in authentic flavors and recipes passed down through generations. Spending Easter in Sardinia means immersing yourself in a world of age-old traditions, unique flavors, and the warm hospitality that only this island can offer.

  Easter in Sardinia: Experience Traditions and Luxury in Exclusive Villas : Read More

A Sardinian wine route is one of the best ways to know the deep tradition and flavors of this beautiful island.

We start by mentioning a red wine that is called Cannonau, the oldest and most famous wine of Sardinia. Recently, some studies have demonstrated that Cannonau represents the oldest type of wine in the whole Mediterranean sea region. It is characterized by a dry and strong flavour. The history tells us that its name originates from a grapevine imported from Spain. Recently, after the discovering of small grapeseeds in a nuragic settlement, it has been proved that its origin is local. The main production area is the central part of Sardinia in the region of Ogliastra and Nuoro. We advise to visit the Cantina Dorgali, where you can taste this wine and get more information about it.

Another famous Sardinian wine is the Malvasia of Bosa: a white and dry wine, with a light bitter smell and aftertaste. This is produced in many areas of Sardinia especially in the Planargia, which is a subregion located in the west central part of the island. Bosa's Malvasia is beautifully accompanied by almond made dry typical Sardinian pastries (sospiri, pirichittos and amaretti). Some people prefer to drink it as an aperitif.

Another great wine is the Vernaccia a dry white wine coming from the region of Oristano. We would suggest you to visit the Cantina Sociale della Vernaccia in Oristano, where you will have the possibility to taste it. It matches perfectly with fish dishes with strong taste and smell, such as bottarga (mullet or tuna eggs), hot or smoked cheeses. It is also excellent as a dessert wine, especially if paired with some sweets made with almonds, which are typical in Sardinia.

The Cagnulari of Alghero is a dry red wine typical of the region of Alghero, Olmedo and the surrounding area, which is characterized by a soft flavor with some notes of red fruits. It matches very well with red or white grilled meats, tomato sauce, legume soups and medium seasoned cheeses.

The Torbato of Alghero is a brut sparkling wine typical of the region of Alghero, Olmedo and the surrounding area. Very suitable as an aperitif or together with fish recipes, crustaceans and white meats. It is also known as Catalan Grapes or Turbat. The warm and dry climate fits perfectly to this wine. You can visit the winery Sella & Mosca in Alghero where you can enjoy a whole day by discovering the peculiarities of this wine.

Another typical wine is Carignano del Sulcis: dry red wine most of all belonging to the region of South Sardinia. We suggest you to taste the Terre Brune of the Cantine Santadi. This wine has received different prizes because of its high quality. It combines well with first dishes with meat sauces and spicy meats (ideal for the famous Sardinian lamb) and seasoned cheeses.

The Moscato of Sorso and Sennori is a sweet and gold coloured wine, produced most of all in the Romangia subregion of Sardinia, between Nurra and Anglona. Its very peculiar flavur perfectly accompanies dry cakes with marmelade or handmade sweets.

One of the most famous Sardinian wines (together with the Cannonau) is the Vermentino di Gallura. A magnificent dry white wine produced purely from Vermentino grapes grown on eluvial fields of granite rocks. Its delicious flavor is the best match with the precious crustaceans of Sardinia. We advise you to visit the Cantina del Vermentino in Monti and to take part of the “sagra del Vermentino di Monti” that occurs every year in the first days of August and attracts many tourists every year!

Best taste the wines in a charming Sardinian villa during sunset. We recommend:

- Villa Il Segreto di Nereo;

- Villa il Rosso di Tramonto;

- Villa Reina De Tavolara.

And Cheers!

  A Sardinian wine route: a top chart of local wines : Read More

  Traditional sweets of Sardinia : Read More

The journey to discover the identity of a land as ancient as Sardinia can only pass through its dishes and its culinary culture. So what do you think about enjoying the following 10 delicacies directly in one of our beautiful villas for rent in Sardinia? Here are some of them:

- Villa Kalli Bloom

- Villa Brandinchi

- Villa Berta

But they are not over. Contact us via WhatsApp or call at +39 342 363 3722. We will help you find the best villa for your next wonderful holiday in Sardinia.

So, Enjoy your meal!

  10 Sardinian top dishes : Read More