A Love Letter To La Dolce Vita at Cala Di Volpe Call it Europe’s answer to the tropical Caribbean, dub it the pulsating Mediterranean’s most glamour fuelled Summer playground or simply just surrender to its irresistibly ravishing allure, the emerald fringed utopia of the Costa Smeralda has spent many a decadent decades seducing the world’s topmost fashion dynasties, pedigreed cliques and bronzed yacht hopping societies alike in hot pursuit of a little la dolce vita.
It is within is Italian sanctum where crystalline azure waters shimmer with gusto beneath a blazing Sardinian sun, whilst an assemblage of floating gleaming Superyachts sway gently upon the jade tinted bays into those compulsory aperitif rituals fuelled by ice chilled spritzes, plucked by the ripples seafood and endless, Mediterranean revelry.
Standing unabashedly with serene grace amongst this bedazzling coastal Eden rests the legendary resort sanctum of Cala Di Volpe, a brazenly seductive architectural retreat with a sophisticated panache resting within the heart of Arzachena, whose deep honey toned towers, charming terracotta accents and photogenic waterfront backdrops have long captivated those far-flung, haute-monde jet sets.
It felt nothing short of that moment of pure euphoric jubilation to be luxuriating within this gloriously boujee Sardinian retreat for a blissful few sun-kissed days and balmy twilight nights, immersed within a realm of Riviera splendour, sun-drenched indulgence and the unmistakable magic that has made the Costa Smeralda, one Europe’s most desirable pulsating Summer soaked odysseys. Where The Costa Smeralda Dream Began: Before Cala Di Volpe became synonymous with Mediterranean glamour, it was simply the name of a secluded bay on Sardinia’s spectacular northeastern coast.
Meaning Fox Cove, Cala Di Volpe lies within the commune of Arzachena in the province of Sassari, with the resort’s unmistakable fox emblem paying tribute to the extraordinary setting that inspired its name. The dazzling tale of Cala Di Volpe begins in the year of 1962, when Prince Karim Aga Khan together with his trusted Sardinian partners, had all dared to imagine an altogether different kind of future for the then, untouched Costa Smeralda settings.
Rather than choosing to impose yet another, grandeur Mediterranean palace upon its shimmering shoreline, their resplendent vision had instead sought to celebrate with full gusto, the island’s untamed soul transforming a secluded stretch of the coastline, into a wholesome yet boujee sanctuary where the allure of the Riviera glamour, could forever flourish without escaping the compelling vision of Sardinia’s raw, mesmerising beauty.
A stimulating commission that fell into the gifted hands of French architectural visionary Jacques Couëlle, it was his sculptural imagination which had refused to acknowledge the tiresome tyranny of straight lines in order to draw his exhilarating creativity from the humble fishing villages dotted along the Mediterranean, all the while dreaming up a deliciously romantic labyrinth of taintless whitewashed walls, next to sweeping arches resting by curved rustic passageways, not to neglect the gleaming stained glass embellishments all cascading towards the shimmering, vibrant emerald bay below.
This enchanting hideaway had proven so irresistibly cinematic, that it had soon caught the attention of the tinsel town real of Hollywood itself earning a starring role in The Spy Who Loved Me, and thus forever secure that coveted position within the James Bond folklore. Now more than six wholesome decades later, the beauty of the Cala Di Volpe resort continues to evolve without surrendering to the treasured spirit that first made it legendary.
A thoughtful restoration by the sophisticated Parisian interiors studio Moinard Bétaille has seen the meticulously protected romance of Couëlle’s original masterpiece, all the while introducing an elegantly contemporary new wing to allow guests to effortlessly drift between the carefree glamour of the 1960s, together with the polished refinement of today all within a single, leisurely stroll.
Now proudly belonging to Marriott’s Luxury Collection and managed by Smeralda Holding, Cala Di Volpe continues to revel in its serene stature one of the Mediterranean’s most coveted playgrounds, where royalty, international jet setters and impeccably bronzed café society continue to arrive in pursuit of the same irresistible promise that captivated Prince Aga Khan more than half a century ago; the intoxicating magic of the Emerald Coast. A Sardinian Masterclass In First Impressions Resting a leisurely 30-minute chauffeured drive from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, Cala Di Volpe wastes not a heartbeat in casting its spell.
Long before the reception desk comes into view, the resort slowly reveals itself beyond emerald lagoons and swaying olive trees, rising from the shoreline less like a grand hotel and more like an impossibly beautiful, Sardinian hamlet kissed into existence by the island itself. Asymmetric terracotta rooftops tumble gracefully towards the bay, whilst weathered granite interweave with knotty juniper wood. Next to honey-hued archways and softly sun-bleached façades appear as though they have belonged to this glorious stretch of coastline for centuries, rather than mere decades.
Stretching confidently into the crystalline waters beyond rests the hotel’s iconic rustic timber jetty, where polished Riva launches and gleaming yachts gently rock beneath the Mediterranean sunshine, painting an idyllic postcard of Costa Smeralda’s effortlessly glamorous way of life.
So seamlessly does Jacques Couëlle’s architectural masterpiece blend into its natural surroundings that it becomes almost impossible to distinguish where human imagination concludes and Mother Nature quietly resumes her brushstrokes. Crossing beneath the sculpted archways felt akin to wandering inside a Mediterranean reverie.
A famously womb-like in design, the interiors cocooned me within a mesmerising labyrinth of seashell-white stucco walls, sweeping organic curves and sculpted alcoves where scarcely a straight line dared interrupt Couëlle’s deliciously rebellious vision. Kaleidoscopic ribbons of sapphire, amber and ruby streamed through stained-glass windows, scattering playful bursts of colour across terracotta floors whilst rich juniper beams laid against hand-painted maroon and ebony motifs, elevated by the bespoke ceramic detailing and beautifully crafted furnishings paying elegant homage to Sardinia’s artisanal heritage.
Cleverly threaded amongst this rustic splendour were indulgent temptations from the world’s most coveted maisons, not least Dolce & Gabbana’s exclusive resort boutique whose vibrant collections sat effortlessly within the hotel’s timeless, Mediterranean soul. A sympathetic restoration by Parisian studio Moinard Bétaille has masterfully refreshed the property without disturbing its artistic heartbeat.
Seashell-white finishes gently amplify the glorious Sardinian daylight, whilst bespoke bronze side tables inspired by drifting seaweed and sculptural walnut cabinetry reminiscent of polished shoreline pebbles quietly reaffirm the resort’s enduring conversation with the landscape beyond its walls. Eventually released from my architectural trance, I was welcomed with the heartfelt warmth of an old family friend returning for another glorious Sardinian summer.
Before I had the chance to admire yet another honey-toned archway, smiling hosts had gracefully relieved me of every belonging, placed an ice-cold flute of crisp Prosecco into my hand and completed the formalities with effortless precision. It was then a mere few moments later I had found myself being personally escorted through this Mediterranean sanctuary towards my “humble” suite abode, no sooner convinced that paradise had not simply been found, but exquisitely choreographed.
The Fine Art Of Suite Style Living The impossibly well-heeled clientele drifting into Cala Di Volpe are positively spoilt for choice amongst 121 ravishing guest rooms and suite sanctuaries, each one celebrating Sardinia’s extraordinary artistry with infinitely more personality than the polished predictability so often found, within the lavish hospitality realm.
Crisp whitewashed walls curve with seductive fluidity around whimsical trompe l’oeil murals, every hand-painted illusion unique to its surroundings whilst handcrafted furnishings, vibrant ceramic artistry and delicate pastel hues borrow their inspiration from the island’s sun-bleached coastline, and shimmering Mediterranean waters.The luxe dwellings of the Contemporary Classic guest-room feels anything but ordinary, spanning a generous 215 square feet.
Shunning the done to death familiar blueprint of contemporary luxury, Couëlle’s unmistakable architectural handwriting continues to dance across the space through sculpted alcoves, graceful curves and softly illuminated niches, creating the delicious illusion of sleeping within a chic Mediterranean hideaway lovingly carved into the Sardinian landscape itself. Should only the most extravagant of addresses suffice, the legendary Harrods Suite stands proudly amongst the Mediterranean’s most coveted penthouse residences.
Sweeping across an extraordinary 2,690 square feet, this showstopping retreat unites three sumptuous suites alongside elegant entertaining salons, an exquisite marble cocktail bar worthy of its own very aperitivo hour alongside a secure vaulted wine cellar, showcasing the topmost exceptional vino vintages and every conceivable modern luxury discreetly woven into its beautifully organic design.
Crowning this spectacular residence rests an arresting rooftop sanctuary, where a shimmering glass-edged infinity pool appears to dissolve seamlessly into Cala Di Volpe Bay, all accompanied by an elegant dining pavilion, private lounging terraces and a beautifully appointed outdoor bar where sunset chilled cocktails naturally evolve into moonlit soirées, right beneath the velvet Sardinian skies. As irresistible as the Harrods Suite undoubtedly proved, my own Contemporary Junior Suite possessed a quieter, infinitely more romantic seduction.
Swathed in soothing ivory tones, sculptural curves and beautifully understated Mediterranean textures, the suite radiated an effortless serenity from the very first moment. Sumptuous Frette Italian linens dressed the impossibly cosy confinements of the king-sized bed, while gentle architectural lighting had cocooned the room beneath softly arched alcoves to create a wonderfully, intimate sanctuary after glorious luncheon afternoons spent chasing the Costa Smeralda sunshine.
The undeniable heart-stealer however, rested beyond the terrace doors where each morning episode began with a steaming strong espresso in hand as the Cala Di Volpe Bay shimmered beneath ribbons of golden Sardinian sunshine, and elegant sleek yachts drifted lazily across impossibly turquoise waters right as the gentle soundtrack of the Mediterranean floated effortlessly through the warm sea breeze, to become the sort of captivating view designed to persuade those breakfast odysseys to linger into mid-morning, and make the simple act of doing absolutely nothing feel like the greatest luxury of all.
Feasting Affairs By The Emerald Coast One does not simply retreat to Cala Di Volpe to count calories or dine in hurried silence as the resort showcases a gastronomical sybaritic playground for the beautifully turned out where bronzed yacht owners glide ashore for lingering luncheons, and linen-clad bon vivants surrender to another perfectly timed aperitivo as though sashaying right off the catwalk stage, whilst the Sardinian sun slowly deepens down the stage to a glowing, Mediterranean dusk.
The resort’s celebrated entourage of restaurants and bars keeps this delicious social theatre in perpetual motion, carrying guests from sun-drenched poolside feasting centred around the island’s finest fish and prime meats, and through elegant champagne fuelled sunset rendezvous overlooking the shimmering bay before giving way to refined native gastronomy, world-renowned Japanese artistry and a dazzling beachside escape where the quintessential Mediterranean soul, intertwines with an vibrant African flair.
The Art Of The Long Lunch At The Cala Di Volpe Barbecue The glorious Sardinian sunshine had barely reached its afternoon crescendo before I found myself irresistibly lured towards the resort’s celebrated open-air barbecue rendezvous, where linen-draped tables rested peacefully beside the shimmering backdrop of the resort’s colossal freshwater pool, and the gentle sway of anchored yachts provided an impossibly glamorous luncheon companion.
Framed beneath rustic timber canopies while caressed by the soft Mediterranean breeze, this languid dining sanctuary embodies the very essence of la dolce vita where polished café society linger over another bottle of chilled Vermentino, and nobody appears remotely interested in keeping one eye on the time. The centrepiece belongs to a Herculean buffet spectacle that could quite happily sustained an army of ravenous epicureans, stretching majestically across polished Sardinian marble as an irresistible parade of gastronomic temptations beckon from every direction.
Delicately rolled sushi nestled comfortably beside glistening seafood platters, whilst vibrant salads, crisp garden leaves paired with marinated vegetables and a wonderfully theatrical build-your-own Caesar station encouraged a little playful indulgence before attention drifted towards comforting trays of silky eggplant parmigiana, homemade pasta specialities and gloriously blistered, wafer like Neapolitan pizzas.
Beyond the stations were handsome displays of luxe prime meat cuts, freshly landed oceanic delights, and traditional Sardinian pasta, all patiently awaiting the skilled hands of the chefs, each dish cooked entirely to order. Unable to resist such an embarrassment of riches, I happily assembled a colourful opening plate of crisp seasonal salads and vibrant seafood accompaniments before surrendering to the dramatics of the live cooking theater.
A beautifully grilled fillet of local salmon arrived wearing a glorious bronze crust, its buttery blush-pink flakes yielding effortlessly beneath a delicate drizzle of fragrant Sardinian olive oil and the lightest kiss of sea salt. Alongside came an exquisite serving of spaghetti alle arselle e bottarga, where sweet local clams embraced perfectly al dente strands, elevated by the deeply savoury flourish of cured bottarga that lingered beautifully across the palate.
A rustic tomato and mozzarella pizza completed the affair, its beautifully blistered crust giving way to molten Fior di Latte and sun-ripened tomatoes bursting with Mediterranean sweetness all accompanied throughout by a beautifully chilled bottle of crisp Sardinian Vermentino, illustrating the lively citrus freshness, and elegant mineral notes dancing effortlessly alongside the seafood altogether proving far more than an indulgent poolside luncheon but a joyous, love letter to Sardinia’s extraordinary larder served with effortless Italian chivalry. Sunrise proves every bit as irresistible, as Cala Di Volpe presents a breakfast banquet worthy of lingering long beyond the final espresso.
Towering displays of jewel-bright seasonal fruits, freshly squeezed juices and artisan pastries tempt from every direction, while chefs theatrically prepare cloud-soft omelettes and perfectly cooked eggs to order. Alongside comforting hot specialties, local cheeses, charcuterie, and wholesome accompaniments create a gloriously abundant morning affair, best savoured slowly as the Mediterranean sparkles into another radiant Sardinian day.
A Sardinian Stage For Nobu’s Culinary Theatre At Matsuhisa at Cala Di Volpe Where only a select resplendent catalogue of culinary institutions can genuinely lay claim to global icon status, Nobuyuki Matsuhisa has spent decades seducing the world’s most discerning palates with an intoxicating marriage of meticulous Japanese craftsmanship and the irrepressible soul of Peru to scrupulously curate a gastronomic romance that has conquered everyone from Hollywood royalty to the Mediterranean’s gilded yacht set.
It therefore felt entirely fitting that Cala Di Volpe should welcome the celebrated chef to Costa Smeralda in 2018, before the overwhelming success of its seasonal residency blossomed into the permanent arrival of Matsuhisa in 2019, gifting Sardinia a dining destination every bit as glamorous as the clientele stepping ashore from the flotilla of superyachts gently swaying beyond the terrace.
Occupying one of the resort’s most iconic waterfront settings, the restaurant had gracefully treasured the wonderfully organic architecture immortalised in The Spy Who Loved Me, allowing the curvaceous silhouette of Jacques Couëlle’s celebrated design to blend in effortlessly with Nobu’s unmistakable contemporary elegance.
Soft white stucco walls flowed with sculptural ease beneath dark exposed timber beams, while terracotta tones lent a Mediterranean warmth to every corner right as bulbous emerald glass vessels appeared half submerged within the walls like fragments of sea glass, patiently polished by decades of Sardinian tides.
Floor-to-ceiling windows had dissolved almost entirely into the landscape, inviting the shimmering Costa Smeralda indoors until the boundary between restaurant and seascape became almost impossible to distinguish, while the terrace stretched invitingly towards the water where champagne shimmered in crystal glasses, polished teak tables caught the final honeyed rays of the evening sun, and impossibly bronzed diners embodied the very definition of sultry Italian chic.
The vivacious chorus of “Irasshaimase!”had swept across the restaurant the very second I arrived, the chefs calling out Japan’s spirited greeting of welcome with such infectious energy demonstrating a grand opening performance worthy of the glamorous setting, all effortlessly dissolving the distance between kitchen and guest before I had even reached my table.
As if perfectly on cue, a Lychee Martini had appeared in my hand deliciously chilled, with its luscious tropical sweetness brightened by lively citrus and a delicate floral perfume that lingered teasingly with every dainty sip as the last golden rays melted into the sapphire waters of the Costa Smeralda. There is however, only one way to sybaritic experience Matsuhisa properly.
Simply smile and utter the words, “I leave it up to you.” Better known as omakase, the restaurant’s highly prized tasting voyage hands complete creative freedom to Nobuyuki Matsuhisa’s gifted brigade, allowing Japanese precision and bold Peruvian influences to dance in joyous harmony together across an ever-changing parade of exquisite plates, each one thoughtfully tailored to personal tastes and dietary preferences. The baby spinach salad arrived first, the dry miso dressing wrapping every leaf in an irresistibly savoury embrace before the famous rock shrimp tempura stole the spotlight, its feather-light crispness giving way to succulent sweetness beneath indulgently creamy spicy sauces that demanded another bite almost before the first had disappeared.
Silken slices of yellowtail sashimi delivered pristine freshness, while the toro with jalapeño was decadence in its purest form, dissolving like velvet silk as the gentle warmth of the chilli coaxed even greater richness from the beautifully marbled tuna. Meaty shrimp tempura, tender soft shell crab and butter-like salmon with avocado inside-out rolls proved that even the familiar becomes extraordinary in Nobu’s hands, yet it was the legendary black cod that once again commanded centre stage, its glistening buttery flakes glazed in that addictive caramelised miso marinade that has inspired countless imitators but remains gloriously unmatched.
The Chilean seabass offered an equally elegant finale, unearthing hearty with delicate spiced flesh all perfectly accompanied by generous pours of Vermentino di Gallura DOCG, its vibrant citrus, crisp green apple and subtle coastal minerality echoing the sea stretching seamlessly beyond the terrace. An Aperitif In Two ActsIf there is one temptation that should never be resisted on the Costa Smeralda it is the promise of an impeccably mixed aperitivo, especially when Cala Di Volpe’s beautifully renovated Lobby Bar happens to be pouring it. Beneath the towering ivory arches and sculptural curves softened by the warm Sardinian glow, the hotel’s social heart carried the graceful allure of an address where one drink was never destined to remain just one.
The sweeping marble bar, its fluid veins reminiscent of the island’s ancient granite became the stage for a brigade of impossibly suave mixologists, whose razor-sharp white jackets looked every bit as immaculate as their craft as silver shakers flashed beneath the lights, and each confident flourish or concoction was delivered with the sort of easy charisma that made it wonderfully difficult to decide whether to admire the cocktail concoctions or the suave gentlemen preparing them.
My signature Peach Bellini arrived looking every inch the curvaceous far-flung socialite, its velvety white peach sweetness lifted by delicate sparkling wine into a refreshingly elegant sip, shaken up to taste like liquid sunshine in a flute. As captivating as the Lobby Bar proved, Cala Di Volpe always had another indulgence waiting and this no sooner, escorted to the open-air Atrium Bar where fashion powerhouse Dolce & Gabbana and their radiant yellow majolica takeover, had transformed the twin terraces into the Costa Smeralda’s chicest after-dark rendezvous.
Vibrant Sicilian prints were wrapped luxurious sofas and cabanas, neatly nestled next to intricate, hand-painted ceramic vases that punctuated the space with joyful bursts of color, while charming terracotta arches framed the glittering marina beyond. A pianist drifted effortlessly through timeless melodies as a velvet-voiced singer filled the balmy evening with irresistible romance, creating precisely that sort of infectious atmosphere that persuades you another cocktail is not just merely justified but positively encouraged.
My Cosmopolitan arrived dressed in the prettiest shade of blush pink, deliciously crisp and silky with its lively cranberry brightness softened by sweet orange liqueur before a dash of fresh lime swept through with just enough citrus bite to leave every sip clean, and dangerously moreish.
Beside it appeared an aperitivo spread to make our UK munchies of those rather predictable bowls of crisps and peanuts look wonderfully uninspired, replacing them with silken smooth guacamole, plump ripe olives and an irresistible parade of warm gourmet bites that threatened to outshine the cocktails themselves.
Before I knew it a flute of Bollinger was pressed elegantly into my hand, its luxurious layers of roasted apple, buttery brioche and fresh walnut proving that at Cala Di Volpe, even the transition from one drink to the next is treated as an occasion worthy of celebration. Gastronomical Grandeur Served With Flambé Theatre At Le Grand A deluxe evening of the upmost epicurean heights at Le Grand possesses a kind of polishutmosted glamour that never feels the slightest bit contrived, claiming a coveted stature at the heart of Hotel Cala Di Volpe with sweeping views across one of Europe’s most glittering coastlines.
This rustic eatery thrives in blending timeless Italian elegance with old-school indulgence in a way few dining rooms still manage, as whitewashed arches softened the space beneath soaring timber ceilings, while cascading chandeliers shimmered above crisp linen bedecked tables dressed with understated refinement.
An impeccably choreographed brigade of tuxedoed waiters glided with agile ease between diners, silver guéridon trolleys at the ready for the evening’s celebrated tableside rituals right as a flute of Bellavista Alma Assemblage 2 opened the proceedings with lively bubbles, as delicate white blossom, bright citrus and softly toasted notes immediately set an appropriately sophisticated tone for Executive Chef Maurizio Locatelli’s refined interpretation of whole Italian, and saporous Mediterranean cuisine.The opening dishes celebrated the island’s finest produce with quiet confidence.
Perfectly seared scallops melted into a silky Sardinian saffron sauce whose gentle floral warmth beautifully enhanced the shellfish’s natural sweetness, while the creamy burrata salad balanced luscious richness with vibrant freshness. Comfort soon gave way to deeper indulgence as crystal-clear beef consommé concealed delicate foie gras and black truffle tortellini, each velvety parcel releasing an intoxicating earthiness with every spoonful.
Equally captivating was the bronze-drawn spaghetti, its beautifully textured strands luxuriously coated in a velvety sea urchin sauce before the unmistakable salinity of Cabras bottarga added an unmistakably Sardinian flourish. The magnificent fish Wellington followed as the evening’s crowning savoury triumph, its perfectly crisp golden pastry giving way to beautifully flaky fish, whose delicate succulence needed little more than the buttery embrace surrounding it.
Throughout dinner, glasses of Surrau Sciala echoed the island itself, unfolding elegant layers of tropical fruit, bright citrus and sweet almond before finishing with a beautifully saline minerality drawn from Sardinia’s granite-rich soils.
Yet the evening’s most irresistible temptation arrived on a gleaming silver trolley wheeled gracefully alongside the table, where the maître d’ transformed the timeless Crêpes Suzette into a piece of culinary theatre. Butter slowly melted into sugar as ribbons of fragrant orange and tangerine zest perfumed the air before a generous pour of Grand Marnier ignited into dancing sapphire flames, drawing admiring glances from every neighbouring table.
As the delicate crêpes luxuriated in the warm citrus caramel alongside scoops of impossibly creamy salted caramel gelato, there seemed little point in pretending anyone’s attention remained on their own dessert. The Resort’s Chicest Tables Cala Di Volpe shows little interest in resting on its glittering culinary reputation, instead continuing to tempt guests with experiences that feel every bit as fashionable as the crowd they attract.
The prime meat haven of Beefbar injects a welcome shot of cosmopolitan cool into the resort where Riccardo Giraudi’s celebrated concept transforms exceptional cuts and elevated street-food favourites into plates that are as visually striking as they are indulgent, all served within an effortlessly chic contemporary setting. The latest arrival of African Queen Beach Club & Restaurant brings a delicious slice of Riviera glamour to the Costa Smeralda.
Having spent decades cultivating an almost legendary following on the French Riviera, the celebrated name now swaps Beaulieu-sur-Mer for Sardinia’s crystalline shores with remarkable ease, set directly beside the soft golden sand beach, with the space dressed in warm natural textures, honey-toned timber, and sun-washed elegance all creating the sort of address where lunch has an amusing habit of drifting seamlessly into sunset cocktails.
It is here where fresh Mediterranean specialities, and impeccably attentive service capture the carefree spirit of long summer afternoons, adding yet another impossibly glamorous reason to postpone your goodbye to Cala di Volpe. Playgrounds For The Beautifully Restless If there is one place that perfects the delicious art of doing absolutely nothing it is debonair den of Cala Di Volpe, where sun soaked days drift by at an unhurried Mediterranean rhythm beside one of Europe’s largest saltwater swimming pools, a glittering sapphire-blue oasis embraced by rustic thatched cabanas, cloud-soft loungers, and fausun-soakedltless poolside service, all overlooking a tranquil turquoise bay that melts seamlessly into the horizon.
Just beyond the resort’s private marina, a leisurely five-minute boat ride delivers guests to an exclusive ribbon of powder-soft white sand, where crystalline waters shimmer in every imaginable shade of aquamarine, and the scent of warm salt air lingers long after the final swim encounter.Inside the new SHISEIDO Spa, serenity becomes an exquisite ritual rooted deep down in 140 years of Japanese expertise, and the heartfelt philosophy of omotenashi; hospitality offered with genuine devotion where every detail is designed to restore both body and mind.
Delicate, yet powerful bold wisps of the precious Kuroho fragrance once treasured by Japanese aristocracy perfume tranquil treatment suites, as bespoke Spa Journeys of deeply restorative body rituals, indulgent facials and aromatic steam rooms coax every ounce of tension into quiet surrender, whilst the serene sea-view Technogym delights in transforming those adrenaline-revved episodes into something unexpectedly enticing, where sunrise Pilates, meditation, kickboxing and personalised wellness programmes are accompanied by uninterrupted majestic views, right across the glittering Mediterranean. Beau-monde devotees tempted beyond the resort can rapidly discover the Costa Smeralda wears glamour as effortlessly as its visitors.
The Pevero Golf Club delivers one of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular rounds, sweeping across a Herculean 6,107 metres as the par-72 championship course threads its way through sculptural granite outcrops, mirror-like lakes, and fragrant swathes of Mediterranean maquis where heady bold juniper, and fragrant sweet wild strawberry perfumes the air with every swing right as the Mistral, Sardinia’s famously unpredictable northwesterly, arrives without invitation, transforming even the most confident approach shot into an exhilarating test of meticulous precision, and steady patience.
By early evening, attention turns to the voluptuous utopia of Porto Cervo, where one of the Mediterranean’s most prestigious marinas becomes a dazzling exhibition of floating palaces for their polished teak decks and gleaming hulls reflecting across impossibly still water, whilst along La Passeggiata and the elegant Piazzetta honey-hued buildings frame glittering boutiques from Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Prada to name a minor few, with each window display as impeccably styled as the designer-clad clientele wandering in between them.
When appetites inevitably return Zuma brings its celebrated contemporary izakaya to the harbour with beautifully crafted sushi, robata specialities and vibrant cocktails served from a chic rooftop terrace overlooking the marina, as it’s equally delectable neighbour of Novikov pairs sleek architectural lines, bespoke timber interiors and a striking marble counter with sophisticated Asian and Mediterranean plates that match the polished crowd gathered around them, all the while Paper Moon delivers that unmistakable Milanese elegance beneath crisp white linens, for handmade tender pasta together with plucked out of waters seafood, married with generous Italian hospitality and the unmistakable fragrance of fresh myrtle drifting through the evening air make lingering over one final bottle of wine, feel entirely irresistible.The Cala Di Volpe State Of Mind Where many a deluxe destination enjoys a season, Hotel Cala Di Volpe takes great glee in wholly owning one.
From the moment the first gleaming yachts anchor along the Costa Smeralda and private jets begin their steady descent into Olbia, this indulgent Sardinian hideaway slips effortlessly back into its natural rhythm, becoming the playground of discerning travellers who appreciate that true luxury is never manufactured, but truly lived and revelled in.
From couture-filled suitcases and impossibly elegant dinners to champagne-fuelled afternoons that drift blissfully towards starlit celebrations, every hour seems to possess its own delicious sense of occasion. A rare confidence about Cala Di Volpe that money alone cannot buy, this elegant resort chooses not to compete for one’s attention, preferring to let its irresistible blend of Sardinian beauty, impeccable hospitality and unapologetic glamour do all the talking where mornings begin beside powder blue tinted waters and afternoons disappear aboard polished Riva tenders right when the balmy evenings sparkle beneath a canopy of jasmine and lantern light, and every restaurant, terrace and marina quietly assembles an international cast whose passports may differ but whose appreciation for the finer things in life speaks a universal language.
Fashion, food, flawless service and a healthy disregard for the ordinary have long made Cala Di Volpe the Mediterranean’s perennial object of desire.
For those fortunate enough to arrive, it is less a hotel than a wonderfully intoxicating way of life, one where the dress code is unashamedly brazen chic, and checking out feels like the least glamorous part of the entire affair.
