Where?

Olbia, Sardinia.

Why now?

North of Tunisia and south of Corsica, the sultry island of Sardinia ranks as
the Med’s second-largest isle. One of the quieter Italian destinations, in terms of tourist
footfall, what this place lacks in swarms of selfie sticks it more
than makes up for with its therapeutic landscape. Owing to the
variety of its ecosystems – think dramatic mountain range, wild
woodland areas, rock-strewn coastlines and stretches of golden sand
– the island is often referred to as being a micro-continent.
Though it may be sparsely populated, there are plenty of vibrant
pockets to explore. Join us as we head to the free-spirited city of
Olbia.

Located in the province of Sassari in northeastern Sardinia,
Olbia has a reputation for its foodie scene, and offers lots of opportunities to work
up an appetite in readiness for a flavour-packed five-course meal.
Trek the dusty trails of the River Park Padrongianus, unleash your
inner boffin at the National Archaeological Museum and marvel at
the remains of the city’s legendary Carathaginian walls, all before
rambling around its independent boutiques and art galleries.

Don’t miss

Festa della Repubblica Italiana (Italy’s Republic Day) takes
place on Thursday 2 June. It’s no secret that Italians know how to
throw a party. Look to schedule your trip for the first week in
June and join colourful, joyous crowds of locals celebrating the
magic of their country.

Where to stay?

Try KKult
Boutique Hotel, in part for its central location, but mainly
for its bright and airy bedrooms. We’re spending our morning
paddling in the rooftop pool, before slipping downstairs to the
first-class spa area. It would be rude not to treat yourself to a
deep tissue massage, followed by a recharge in the low-lit sauna.

Where to go for lunch?

A waterfront terrace, seafood-stuffed pasta dishes and a
mouthwatering dessert menu: Bambusa Porto
Rotondo is one of Olbia’s tastiest restaurants. Situated in the
tranquil Nuova Darsena district, this elegant spot seamlessly fuses
old-school design with a contemporary finish. Get comfortable in an
oyster-white chair beneath an enormous plant-lined pergola to
savour a proper Sardinian pranzo (lunch).

And for dinner…

Everyone bangs on about Italian pizza and, truthfully, we were
fully committed to avoiding clichés at all costs. That is, until we
stumbled across Mint Julep. A bar-restaurant in the heart of the city,
this isn’t the sort of place you’d come to for award-winning
interiors, but we’d argue that its lack of design savvy makes it
even more special. Choose between one of the indoor candlelit
tables or one in the charming outdoor courtyard, then settle down
for a fruit-flavoured cocktail and some five-cheese-topped slices.
Heads-up: this is one of Olbia’s best-loved foodie hangouts, so be
sure to book to avoid any margherita FOMO.

Who to take with you

Sardinia has a special air of romance that trickles through its
tiny towns and rustic villages. Being just a two-hour flight from
London, we can hardly think of a better place to spend a long, lazy
weekend with our better half. Join locals dancing in the streets,
feast at traditional ristorantes or lose yourself down discreet
passageways and lively piazzas.

When to go

Northern and western Sardinia are prone to taking the hit of the
harsh mistral wind, particularly between October and April. We
suggest looking to visit in June, when the waters are calm and the
gentle breeze tempers the scorching heat.

Essentials to pack

Bikinis are out and swimsuits are in. Pack this Valentino one-shoulder printed cozzie and spend
days bobbing in the waves in style.

How to get there

Take a direct flight from London Gatwick Airport to Olbia Costa
Smeralda Airport, which is just minutes from the city centre.