Sardinia: This Summer’s Best-Kept Secret

Sardinia is the Mediterranean’s quiet glow right now - sun-drenched coves, pastel cliff towns, and cult-favorite stays known mostly to those who don’t post everything. But it’s not just the villas or the trekkin - it’s the attitude. Sardinia moves at its own pace, blending medieval charm with coastal drama, and rewarding those willing to wander a little further.

Here’s a curated escape that’s just a quick two-hour private hop from the mainland and worth every minute.

Where to STAY

Romazzino, a Belmond property, Costa Smeralda
Just imagine: coastal breezes, locally-inspired interiors, and stand-alone villas with private plunge pools. It’s not OTT, it’s effortlessly elegant.

Forte Village Resort - Pula (South Sardinia)
This is family fun in full glory: multiple hotel options, 21 restaurants, a high-end spa, and endless activities. Think: tennis academies, celebrity-chef dinners, and dreamy coastal gardens.

Hotel Capo d’Orso - Palau (Northern Sardinia)
Tucked between olive trees and turquoise inlets, Hotel Capo d’Orso is the kind of place where time softens. With just 86 rooms, a private marina, and wooden sun decks built into the rocks, it feels more like a hidden club than a resort.

Petra Segreta, Hillside Retreat
Perched above Porto Cervo, think rustic meets refined: cave-spa, soft stone interiors, and sweeping views that whisper "slow down."

Where to EAT

Sa Nassa
Seafront, sunset, seafood. Sa Nassa delivers refined Sardinian classics with just enough edge, all served steps from the old town walls. Order the culurgiones and don’t skip the octopus.

Josto and Framento
Josto is Sardinia’s answer to modern bistronomy: unfussy but thoughtful, seasonal but rebellious. Chef Pierluigi Fais brings creative edge to the table, think bottarga carbonara or local lamb reimagined.

Il Rifugio
Tucked into the hills of Nuoro, Il Rifugio is rustic Sardinia at its best. No frills, no fuss - just fire-grilled meats, house-made pasta, and deep local wines served like family’s coming over.

Where to EXPLORE

Alghero
Northern Sardinia’s hidden gem: cobbled streets, coastal wine bars, and beaches like Maria Pia. It’s relaxed, authentic, and surprise still under the radar.

Cala Goloritzé & The Selvaggio Blu
Adventure lovers, listen up: Cala Goloritzé is a sculptural beach best reached on foot or by boat worth every step for the view. Nearby, the multi-day trek Selvaggio Blu traces raw cliffs and ocean blues that feel electric.

La Pelosa & Stintino Peninsula
Yes, La Pelosa is famous and packed. But just beyond the crowds, hidden gems like Le Bombarde, Porto Ferro, and the wild Asinara island await. Quiet and untouched.

When to Go & How to Get There

Late summer into early fall (think September) is pure magic - fewer crowds, still-sunny days, and comfortable exploring. Inland festivals and cooler evenings make it ideal for a road trip.

Arrive via Olbia, Alghero, or Cagliari - each easily accessible by private jet. With flexible routing and minimal ground time, flying private lets you skip the chaos and land closer to the coastline. NUBES handles the details, so the only thing you’ll need to choose is which cove to claim first.

Need help planning your getaway? Get in Touch