Costa Smeralda: Playground of the Rich and Famous

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT A VISIT TO THE COSTA SMERALDA!

The Costa Smeralda is a stretch of coastline in northern Sardinia. In Italian, its name means the Emerald Coast, a nod to the many colour variations of its waters. Today it's a popular vacation spot for celebrities because of its white sandy beaches and glitzy resorts. Its warm and dry Mediterranean climate, also makes it the perfect habitat for a wide range of aquatic species. The best time to enjoy this part of the island is between the months of May and September, when the weather conditions are ideal. Whether in search of luxury or nature, the Costa Smeralda has something for all tastes.

HOW TO GET TO COSTA SMERALDA
Since Sardinia is an island, getting to the Costa Smeralda is possible only by air and sea. The Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport conveniently serves the region with flights from across Europe. There are many transportation options to choose from upon landing. Rental cars are available for those looking to explore the island on their own. If you prefer to leave the driving to someone else, other options include taxi, private transfer, and bus.
Another option is to reach the island by sea with regional ferry service. Many ferry companies serve Sardinia from mainland Italy and elsewhere in the Mediterranean. These ports include Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Marseilles, and Barcelona. This is a lengthier option, but a great one for those who enjoy sailing.

WHERE TO STAY IN COSTA SMERALDA
A safe destination to visit, there are many options of where one can stay while in the Costa Smeralda. A short drive north of Olbia’s airport is the popular resort town of Porto Cervo, home to many luxurious seafront resorts. Here one will find fine dining and a wide assortment of nightlife. There is also a vast selection of elegant boutiques to shop at, such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. Another popular town known for its upscale ambience is Porto Rotondo. Its lush landscape and picturesque sea views explain why so many celebrities own vacation villas in the area. With plenty of resorts and entertainment to choose from, you too can enjoy a VIP getaway here.

LA MADDALENA
La Maddalena Archipelago is a series of rocky islands off the Costa Smeralda. Its national park is an ecosystem for sea life such as dolphins and turtles. The lagoon is a great place for activities like scuba diving, while the rocky cliffs make it a great place for hiking. It's also home to some of the Mediterranean's most pristine beaches. In fact, some have been granted protected status to preserve their natural beauty. The most famed of these is the Spiaggia Rosa, which can only be seen by boat. It's known for its pink hued sand, the result of coral fragments that have washed ashore. But La Maddalena has plenty of other beaches to be enjoyed, if you want to relax and soak up the sun. If you're looking to beat the crowds and want a serene experience, it's best to avoid the beaches in July and August. They are especially full around the Ferragosto holiday when most Italians vacation. For an enjoyable experience, it's best to visit in May, June, September, and even October. No words could truly ever describe the beauty of this unique destination. If you have the opportunity to visit, don't miss out.

WHAT TO DO IN COSTA SMERALDA
The Costa Smeralda is a lavish destination with so much to offer. It's true that its spectacular beaches, gourmet food, bustling nightlife, and swanky shops are its main lures, but it has even more! A visit inland, away from the coast is worth taking, whether as a day trip or staying at an agriturismo. The Sardinian countryside is a true rural retreat, offering respite from the busy coast.
And if you're looking for historical charm by the seaside, consider a visit to Alghero. Located on the northwestern coast of Sardinia, this town is known for its Catalan architecture and exquisite seafood. In fact, its architecture has a striking resemblance to that of the Spanish region of Catalonia, hence its nickname "Little Barcelona". And if you love coral jewelry, surely you will find it here as you browse the shops of its narrow streets. A visit to Alghero is approximately two hours from Porto Cervo, making it another great day trip option.

TAKE A PRIVATE BOAT TOUR
If you want to enjoy the Costa Smeralda and all its glamour like a celebrity, then a private yacht tour is the answer. This option allows one to take in all the beauty that this area has to offer. Most tours will allow personal customization, ensuring that one's wish list is met. Whether you want to sunbathe on a pristine beach, snorkel in crystal clear waters or simply enjoy a glass of Prosecco at sea, all this is possible. Many private yacht tours will even offer hotel dock pickup, if you're staying at a seafront resort.

But one can even take a private boat tour to the French island of Corsica. Its proximity to the Costa Smeralda means that you can enjoy a quick getaway to this gem. Your skipper will be happy to make stops along the way, allowing you to enjoy a quick dip in the crystal clear waters. Upon approach of Bonifacio, you'll be taken aback by how the town is perched above the sea. This is largely because of the port's unique fjord-like inlet. A quaint, cobblestone town with shops and cafes, this is considered one of France's best kept secrets. A tour to Corsica from the Costa Smeralda is an absolute must!

Don't hesitate to get in touch with us to plan your voyage!

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