La Cornice

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.