Located in one of the most desirable areas in northern Sardinia, Villa Cornice makes the ideal base for those itching to explore the luxurious lifestyle of Porto Cervo and the prestigious beaches synonymous with Costa Smeralda, as well as the island's fishing villages and breathtaking natural backdrops.
The one-of-a-kind home has been expertly designed by famous French architect Jacques Couëlle, who has been dealing with many of the first villas built on the Emerald Coast in the 1960s. Stylish and contemporary with a nod to Sardinian traditions, you can expect red tiles, rattan furniture handmade on the island and beige stone walls with tree branches growing directly from the stone and into the space. Kick back in the living room designed in a typical Costa Smeralda style, boasting a fireplace for use in colder months, while the large central window gives continuity between the interior and the exterior, and lets the refreshing ocean breeze in on hot summer days. The kitchen and two of the four bedrooms in the villa are also located on this floor.
A central staircase leads upstairs where you can find another two bedrooms, all exuding an equally bohemian charm, with white-washed linen, beach wood wardrobes and nightstands carved directly into the thick, rustic stone. There’s also an additional annexe that can host up to 2 more guests with its own kitchen and twin bedroom.
The terrace overlooking the stunning garden and pool offers panoramic views of the glistening azure-blue ocean in the distance; just imagine waking up to the bright-blue skies and sipping your morning coffee here. Local plants, dotted around the property are mixed with palms, cacti and flowering shrubs, while the granite rocks that make up most of the landscaped gardens perfectly tap into the rugged vibe.
Set in the hills overlooking Porto Cervo marina, it’s just a 15-minute walk to the centre lined with prestigious boutiques, first-class restaurants and bars. The idyllic seaside resort is frequented by jet-setters and celebrities, so you might even spot a famous actor or singer on your afternoon parade.
Sardinia is nonetheless a beach paradise with options for every sunseeker and offers a great balance of flashy resorts and quiet corners suitable for those looking to find their own piece of utopia. The closest beach Spiaggia Cala Granu is less than a 30-minute walk away, while more picturesque spots for swimming can be found in Capo Ferro, which also boasts a stunning lighthouse built on a cliff.
If you’re looking for further amenities and options for wining and dining, head to Olbia, Sardinia’s second-largest city. Here you can stroll around its buttermilk-yellow streets and visit local shops, cafés, restaurants and bars before catching sun rays on the palm tree-lined promenade.
Other notable cities such as Cagliari and Sassari are also a driving distance away and are worth staying overnight for.
What Oliver loves...
The villa exudes a true bohemian charm inside and out, featuring sandstone walls, granite rocks and tree trunks growing from the walls
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the port and sea from this superb hillside villa
The lovely sandy beaches of Costa Smeralda are only a few minutes' drive away
Olbia, with its array of restaurants, bars and a promenade running along the marina is only a 30-minute drive away
What you should know
Please note that the villa is set on an uneven surface with terraced lawns and typical granite rocks, making it not suitable for small children.
La Cornice sleeps 8 guests in the main villa and 2 guests in the annexe - perfect for anyone that enjoys some privacy.
The bathrooms are typical in style, though some are quite narrow.
Please note that hiring a car is highly recommended to explore the island.
Please note that published rates are only valid for the current year. Any bookings for subsequent years will be on request only and correct rates will be confirmed at the time of booking.
Please note that your booking will only be confirmed once we have checked availability with the owner or their property manager.
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The Local Area
About the surrounding area of La Cornice
Walk to Village
Beach Nearby
<1hr to Airport
Located in a quiet residential setting in northern Sardinia’s famous seaside resort Porto Cervo, La Cornice grants guests 180-degree views of the glitzy marina below. This fantastic position just moments away from the seafront and a short drive from notable cities makes it an ideal base to explore the island without (almost) lifting a finger.
Fringed with a garland of golden, sometimes white sand, Sardinia’s coastline is exotic in look and feel, and the coastline is awash with colour: waters swirl with shades of indigo and skies are streaked by coral sunsets and flocks of resident pink flamingos that nest in salty lagoons. Luckily, you’re in the right spot to indulge in all the salty activities. Head to Spiaggia Cala Granu, a beach in a small cove protected by headlands or Spiaggia Tre Monti which can be observed from the nearby rocky paths. Alternatively, drive further to Capo Ferro to explore more beaches backed by woodlands, as well as the famed lighthouse built at the edge of a cliff.
Porto Cervo itself is excellent for strolling around and shopping in its prestigious boutiques which include big Italian designer brands as well as local artisans. The closest restaurant is just a 15-minute walk away with more dining spots being located in the modest central square, and so is a supermarket if you need to stock up on fresh ingredients.
From Palau (a 30-minute drive), you can easily explore the nearby La Maddalena islets by renting a boat or hopping on an organised boat trip. The constellation of tiny islands is rich in fauna and flora, and you might spot dolphins and turtles as you sail across the crystal-clear azure sea, with only powder-soft sand below.
If you’re craving the buzz of city life, drive south for 30 minutes to reach Olbia, Sardinia’s second-largest city. Although it’s not as busy as Cagliari, there are still plenty of opportunities for dining and sightseeing. Visit the mediaeval San Simplicio Basilica dating to the 11th century, or make your way through a palm-lined waterfront promenade to the Museo Archeologico di Olbia which exhibits artefacts from Roman worship. The hilltop Nuraghe Riu Mulinu is an archaeological complex with excellent views of the Gulf of Olbia if you’re feeling up for a hike. Shop on the Corso Umberto avenue lined with small boutiques and later in the afternoon, watch the world go by from one of the bars and restaurants at the Piazza Regina Margherita to discover Sardinia’s thriving food and drink scene.
Sassari is easy to reach by car in 1.5 hours, and this proud and cultural university town has a handsome historic centre for wandering around. Its central square Piazza d'Italia is where people gather and there are often street food festivals and other celebrations happening in the summer months. Admire the Cattedrale di San Nicola – a mediaeval Romanesque cathedral, with a later baroque facade and neoclassical features. The public gardens next to the city’s university provide much-deserved shelter from the sun, with pretty picnic spots underneath swaying palm trees.
The Region
Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, is a hidden gem that beckons travellers with its natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural heritage. Located off the west coast of Italy, this enchanting region is a place of remarkable diversity, offering a blend of stunning landscapes, historical treasures, and vibrant traditions.
While you’re enjoying one of our fantastic villas in Sardinia you may well want to explore everything else the region has to offer – so we’ve put together this handy travel guide to give you a little help and inspiration!
Please be aware that a number of nearby amenities - pharmacies, supermarkets, restaurants, for example - may be closed or have limited opening hours during low season.
