I just love when friends offer to guest blog…here is some more great inspiration from my dear friend Dori Christie… a weekend in Sardinia…
It was time to leave Firenze (aka Florence) for a few days of vacation from vacation. The beautiful isle of Sardegna was the destination.
But first – how to get to their… It’s off the coast of Italy about 120 miles west of the mainland, south of the neighbouring French Island, Corsica.
We hopped on a “bullet” train from Florence to Rome moving at 247 km per hour. It gets you to the airport in under 2 hours and then a quick 40-minute flight to Olbia in Sardegna.
What strikes you first is the geography, it’s stunning! With craggy mountains all brushy and the clear turquoise of the Tyrrhenian Sea. We arrive at our resort, Cale Di Volpe or Bay of Foxes. Iconic, gorgeous, all thank Aga Khan and his love of the island. He organized the building of the hotel in 1962 and it has been a sunseekers destination ever since.
The resort is beautiful beyond our expectations, starting with a view from the lobby that overlooks the Bay with mega yachts languishing and mountains from the Maddalena archipelago as far as the eye can see. Our room, very comfortable, complete with private terrace and sea view. We leave our bags & head to the lobby bar for an aperitivo.
The bar staff are delightfully accommodating; the cocktails delicious; the lobby has a good hustle and bustle. Dinner at one of four restaurants. We decide on Matsuhisa Japanese. It was perfection, from the sushi to marinated grilled fish to the service… a wonderful complete experience. After dinner, a walk around the property taking in the stunning landscape, some of it natural, some of it beautifully designed… all working well together.
Time for bed. The perfect sleep thanks to black out shades, absolute quiet and an amazing mattress.
A quick breakfast by the pool and off for local shopping at The Promenade where there were all the usual suspects: Dior, Channel, Eres (where I bought a bathing suit – they really are the best). Dinner off campus so to speak tonight. We went to Belvedere, a spot which locals, tourists & Michelin alike favour. It is known for its traditional Sardegnian menu, local wine and spectacular view. It did not disappoint.
Day tours are a must… so many charming fishing villages to choose from. We decided on Cannigione. Known for its beaches and boating, it also has some great little shops with local made crafts. The real highlight was the décor shop Berenice Vien del Mare , an Interior Design Laboratory where they have curated bespoke furniture brands, local artisans, ceramics and objects d’art. We’re taking home a gorgeous piece by Luca Scassellati (@ceramiche_lucascellati). Inspiration for a lot of Luca’s work is inspired by the sea and history of Sardinia including the Nuragic civilization which dates back to 18th century BC. He lives and works in Cannigione.
Our last full day was blessed with perfect weather & conditions. We went boating in the wild blue yonder. Sardinia can be quite windy – the mistral come in from the northwest Mediterranean. The big swells it creates makes interesting geography. The rock formations look architectural. It also makes for great sailing, wind surfing, parasailing.
Enough boating. We headed to Nikki Beach ( https://costa-smeralda.nikkibeach.com) for some sand, lunch, music and all round good vibes. Their fabulous playlists can be found on Spotify Nikki beach Costa Smeralda.
Sardegna is a great get away, popular but not overrun with tourists. Italians like to vacation here which helps to keep it authentic. A favourite Sarda expression Aio – Let’s go!
