Costa Smeralda

Tucked away on the northeastern coast of Sardinia lies a destination that is the epitome of luxury and sophistication. This stunning corner of Sardinia, 30 mins driving from the Olbia airport, with its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning natural scenery, has become synonymous with the ultimate in luxury travel, attracting VIPs and luxury travelers from around the world. Developed in the 1960s by a consortium of investors led by the Aga Khan, who saw the potential of the area’s natural beauty and sought to create a high-end tourism destination, Costa Smeralda has since attracted the world’s elite, including celebrities, politicians, and business moguls. It’s no wonder that it’s considered one of the most luxurious destinations in the world, offering an exclusive lifestyle that is unmatched by any other. Today, Costa Smeralda is home to some of the most exclusive hotels, restaurants, and shops in Italy, attracting celebrities and jet-setters from around the world.

Attractions

Costa Smeralda is one of the most prestigious golf and yachting destinations in the Mediterranean. It is dotted with luxury hotels, villas, golf courses, beaches, and marinas. Some of the main attractions and places to visit in Costa Smeralda include:

Porto Cervo – The iconic port town with upscale shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. It is a hub for the yachting scene and hosts many lavish events and regattas.
Porto Rotondo – A picturesque harbor village with a charming historic center, sandy beach and yacht marina. It is home to the prestigious Porto Rotondo Golf Club.
Poltu Quatu – This picturesque glamorous village located on a natural harbor and secluded bay in granite fjord, is known for its marina, luxury yachts, and seafood restaurants. Poltu Quatu is a great place to explore on foot, and you’ll find plenty of shops, cafes, and bars, also a popular anchorage for yachts.
Cala di Volpe: This secluded bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Smeralda, and it’s no wonder that it’s a favorite spot for the rich and famous. The beach is surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation and has crystal-clear water that’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Baja Sardinia: This charming and cozy seaside village is known for its stunning beaches and lively nightlife. Baja Sardinia is a great place to relax during the day and party at night, and you’ll find plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
San Pantaleo: This beautiful charming village is located in the hills of Costa Smeralda and is known for its traditional architecture, artisanal crafts and weekly market. San Pantaleo is a great place to relax and soak up the local culture, and you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants serving traditional Sardinian cuisine.
La Maddalena Archipelago: This stunning group of islands is located off the coast of Costa Smeralda and is a must-visit for nature lovers. The archipelago is a protected marine park and home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy.
Bonifacio in Corsica: This charming town is located on the southern tip of Corsica and is known for its historic citadel and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and bars, and take a boat tour to see the limestone cliffs and sea caves along the coast.
La Maddalena: This charming town is located on the island of La Maddalena and is known for its picturesque harbor, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and bars, and take a ferry to the neighboring island of Caprera, where they can visit the house of Italian patriot and hero Giuseppe Garibaldi.
Gallura: This region in northeastern Sardinia is known for its rugged landscapes, granite mountains, and traditional villages. Visitors can explore its many hiking trails, visit its historic churches and museums, and sample its traditional cuisine, such as the famous Gallura soup.
Pevero Golf Club is a renowned Robert Trent Jones-designed golf course. The 18-hole, par-72 course features stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and has hosted international tournaments such as the Italian Open and the World Cup of Golf. The club also offers amenities such as a driving range, putting green, pro shop, and clubhouse with a restaurant and bar.
Cervo Tennis Club is a luxurious tennis club with eight clay courts, a fitness center, swimming pool, and a restaurant serving local cuisine, the club offers members and guests a world-class experience. Its prime location also provides access to some of the most exclusive shopping, dining, and entertainment options for a luxurious Mediterranean lifestyle.
Archaeological Sites – the area also has a rich archaeological history, with several important sites that provide insight into the island’s ancient past. One of the most significant sites located in Arzachena is the Nuraghe La Prisgiona, a Bronze Age complex consisting of a central tower and several smaller ones. Another important site is the Tomba dei Giganti Coddu Vecchiu, a prehistoric burial site that dates back to the Nuraghic era. These archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the fascinating history of Sardinia and are a must-see for anyone interested in ancient civilizations.
Adventure activities include canyoning, climbing, 4WD tours, and caving. There are many sporting cliffs, climbing routes, hiking trails and spelunking opportunities in the interior mountains and forests.
Wineries in the area are known for their iconic Vermentinos, crisp white wines made from Vermentino grapes with floral and citrus flavors. Costa Smeralda wineries have received international recognition for their innovative wines that reflect the unique terroir and climate of this pristine coastline in Sardinia. These wineries provide memorable experiences allowing visitors to explore the region’s winemaking traditions. They offer wine tastings, vineyard tours, and cellar visits where guests learn about the history and craftsmanship behind the wines.

Beaches

If you’re looking for paradise on earth, expolre Costa Smeralda, where crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches are the norm. Here are the beaches that will make your heart skip a beat:

Spiaggia del Principe – You’ll feel like royalty at this beach, named after Prince Aga Khan. The turquoise waters and fine sand make it the perfect spot for a day of swimming and sunbathing.
Liscia Ruja – This beach is so long, you might need a map to navigate it. The sand dunes and pine trees provide a natural shelter from the wind, so you can soak up the sun in peace.
Capriccioli – This beach is like two for the price of one, with two small bays that each have their own unique charm. The shallow water is perfect for swimming, while the rocks at the edge of the beach are a dream for snorkelers.
Cala di Volpe – You’ll feel like you’re in a movie at this picture-perfect beach in front of the Hotel Cala di Volpe. The rocks and lush vegetation provide a stunning backdrop for your sunbathing session.
Cala Granu – This small, secluded beach near Porto Cervo is a hidden gem. The crystal-clear water and rocky surroundings make it a popular spot for snorkelers and divers.
Romazzino – This exclusive beach near Porto Cervo is a must-visit for beach enthusiasts. The turquoise water and fine sand will take your breath away.
Spiaggia del Pevero – This beach near the Pevero Golf Club is for the water sports enthusiasts. Get your adrenaline pumping with windsurfing and kitesurfing, or just kick back and enjoy the stunning views.

Visitors can also explore the nearby islands of La Maddalena and Caprera, which offer stunning natural scenery and a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

Costa Smeralda is a beach lover’s dream come true. From the turquoise waters to the white sandy beaches and stunning landscapes, this place has it all. Whether you want to relax or go on an adventure, there’s a beach here for every mood.

Night life

Costa Smeralda is a true paradise for night owls who seek endless entertainment, dazzling lights and a vibrant atmosphere. The night life in Costa Smeralda is simply breathtaking, offering a wide range of clubs, bars, lounges and restaurants that cater to every taste and preference.

One of the most popular destinations for night life in Costa Smeralda is Porto Cervo, the heart and soul of the region. The town is packed with high-end clubs and bars that attract both locals and tourists.

If you’re in the mood for a more traditional night out, the Piazza degli Ulivi in San Pantaleo is the place to be. The square comes alive at night with street performers, live music and a bustling atmosphere. The locals gather here to socialize and enjoy the warm summer nights.

Here are a few most notable venues:

The Billionaire Club, owned by Flavio Briatore, is a must-visit venue for party-goers who want to experience the ultimate VIP treatment. The club boasts a luxurious atmosphere, stunning views of the sea and a high-profile clientele.
Phi Beach Club is the perfect spot for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere. Located on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea, the club offers a unique setting for a night out. Visitors can enjoy a cocktail while listening to chill-out music and watching the sunset over the Mediterranean. It also hosts lively parties and events that draw big crowds and often features international DJs and live music.
Ritual Club: is a trendy nightclub with a lively atmosphere and a diverse crowd. The club features multiple dance floors, VIP areas, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views.
Sottovento Club: Sottovento is another popular club in Porto Cervo that attracts a fashionable crowd. The club has a sleek, modern design and features a large dance floor, multiple bars, and a lounge area.
Nikki Beach is a popular luxury beach club in Porto Cervo, offering a glamorous atmosphere for dining, music, fashion, and entertainment. During the day, visitors can relax on sun loungers by the pool or on the beach, while at night, the club transforms into a lively party venue with DJs spinning the latest tunes and a high-energy crowd dancing the night away. Nikki Beach is known for its chic ambiance and exclusive events, and is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable night out in Costa Smeralda.

The best season for nightlife in Costa Smeralda is during the summer months, from June to September. The peak period for nightlife is typically in July and August when the region is at its liveliest and most crowded. During this time, many of the clubs and bars are open every night of the week, and there are often special events and parties that attract both locals and tourists.

The warm summer weather and long daylight hours make it the perfect time to enjoy the beach during the day and then hit the clubs at night. However, it’s worth noting that the high season can also be the most expensive and crowded time to visit, so it’s important to plan and book ahead if you want to guarantee entry to some of the most popular venues.

If you prefer a slightly quieter atmosphere, you may want to consider visiting in June or September. The weather is still warm and sunny, and the crowds are thinner, which can make it easier to get into some of the more exclusive clubs and bars.

Overall, the summer months in Costa Smeralda offer the best opportunity to experience the region’s vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of options for all tastes and preferences.

The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda

The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS) is a prestigious yacht club located in Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Italy. Founded in 1967 by His Highness the Aga Khan and a group of sailing enthusiasts, the YCCS has become one of the most renowned yacht clubs in the world, hosting some of the most prestigious sailing events such as the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Sardinia Rolex Cup.

The YCCS clubhouse is an impressive building designed by architects Michele Busiri Vici and Peter von Seidlein, featuring a unique blend of traditional Sardinian architecture and modern design. The clubhouse offers a range of services to its members, including a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, gym, spa, and a boutique.

In addition to the clubhouse, the YCCS also operates marinas in Porto Cervo and Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, providing top-class facilities for yachts of all sizes. The YCCS also promotes environmental sustainability and conservation, with initiatives such as the “One Ocean Foundation” aimed at protecting the world’s oceans.

Overall, the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda is a symbol of excellence in the world of yachting, offering its members a unique and exclusive experience in one of the most beautiful locations in the Mediterranean.