Visiting Italy is a dream vacation for so many of us, and it’s easy to understand why. The food, the wine, the Aperol spritzes, the history…did I mention the food? When we’re dreaming about Italy we usually picture Rome, Venice, the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany. But tucked away in the heart of the Mediterranean is one of Europe’s most spectacular hidden gems: Sardinia. It’s a destination I was unfamiliar with until a recent trip with Palace Resorts to explore their Baglioni Resort Sardinia on the northwest coast of the island, and it did not disappoint!
With turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean, charming seaside villages, incredible cuisine, and a slower pace of life, Sardinia offers a completely different side of Italy, one that feels authentic, luxurious, and refreshingly uncrowded. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a luxury beach vacation, or an unforgettable cultural adventure, Sardinia deserves a spot at the top of your list.
Beaches That Look Unreal
Sardinia is famous for having some of the clearest water in Europe. Along the island’s coastline, you’ll find white sand beaches, hidden coves, and dramatic rocky cliffs surrounded by shades of blue you truly have to see to believe. While most of Italy has very rocky beaches, in Sardinia you can find soft white sand.
The glamorous Costa Smeralda is known for upscale resorts, luxury yachts, and stunning beaches frequented by celebrities and travelers seeking sophisticated relaxation; every stretch of coastline feels like a postcard. Less crowded than the Italian and Frecnh Rivieras, Costa Smeralda is a hidden gem.
The Food Is Worth the Trip Alone
Italian food lovers will fall in love with Sardinia’s culinary scene. Fresh seafood, handmade pasta, local cheeses, and traditional roasted meats dominate menus across the island. If you love pecorino cheese, you’ll love Sardinia; the pecorino here is fantastic!
A few local specialties I loved:
- Culurgiones (stuffed pasta similar to ravioli)
- Porceddu (traditional roasted suckling pig)
- Pane Carasau (thin, crispy Sardinian flatbread)
- Pane Frattau (made with the Pane Carasau, it’s kind of like a fresh lasagna with bell peppers and tomatoes)
Meals here are not rushed. Dining is an experience, often lasting hours and centered around conversation, wine, and connection. Sardinia is also known for producing exceptional wines, particularly Vermentino and Cannonau. I visited a local vineyard called Surrau for a sublime wine tasting that included tapas-style bites with each wine and ended up ordering a case of wine to be sent home! I
Quiet Luxury at its Finest
Sardinia has quietly become one of the Mediterranean’s premier luxury destinations. Exclusive beach clubs, five-star resorts, private yacht charters, and boutique hotels attract travelers looking for refined experiences without the crowds found in other European hotspots.
One standout option for luxury travelers is Baglioni Resort Sardinia, located along Sardinia’s stunning northeastern coastline near the protected marine area of Tavolara. The resort blends elegant Mediterranean design with exceptional service, making it an ideal choice for couples, honeymooners, and travelers looking for a sophisticated beach retreat.
Guests can enjoy beautifully designed suites, a relaxing spa, gourmet dining at the resort’s Michelin starred restaurant, Gusto, and direct access to one of the island’s most breathtaking beaches. Its location also makes it a perfect base for exploring nearby coastal villages, yacht excursions, and the crystal-clear waters Sardinia is famous for.
My room was very spacious and beautifully decorated. I loved that the rooms felt like small houses, and were designed to melt into the surroundings. Americans who love air conditioning will love the suites here; while it was a very mild time of year and I could open the windows for breezes, the A/C was also very robust. No need to worry about hot hotel rooms here!
Nearby, Costa Smeralda’s vibe is very similar to French Riviera destinations like St. Tropez, but much less crowded. You’ll still find high-end luxury shopping and nightlife, but in a more relaxed setting.
When to Visit Sardinia
The best time to visit Sardinia is typically between May and October.
- May and June offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, and most resorts are just opening up for the summer (Baglioni typically opens around mid-May)
- July and August bring lively energy and warm beach weather
- September is often considered ideal, with beautiful weather and a more relaxed atmosphere
- October offers mild temperatures and excellent opportunities for sightseeing
If your goal is a luxury beach escape without peak-season crowds, early summer or September are excellent choices.
Easy Access from Rome and the US
Sardinia’s main airport, Olbia Costa Smeralda (OLB), is easily accessible from Rome FCO, and Delta Airlines just launched direct flights from JFK to OLB on select days during the summer season.
Why Travelers Fall in Love with Sardinia
Sardinia combines everything travelers dream about in a Mediterranean vacation:
- Stunning beaches
- Incredible food
- Rich culture
- Luxury experiences
- Relaxed island atmosphere
It’s a destination that feels both sophisticated and undiscovered at the same time.
For travelers seeking something beyond the typical European itinerary, Sardinia offers an unforgettable blend of beauty, authenticity, and relaxation. I highly recommend checking out Stanley Tucci’s “Searching for Italy” episode on Sardinia; you can find it streaming on Hulu and Disney+.
Once you visit, chances are you’ll already be planning your return before you even leave!
Ready to Pack Your Bags?
Key to the World Travel® Advisors will help you plan all the details of your Sardinia vacation – that includes finding the best deals, booking rooms, coordinating transportation, and more!