Smeralda Beach Houses, Costa Smeralda, Sardinia - Explore & Book

"Costa Smeralda, in north-east Sardinia, is one of the most dazzling regions of Italy. The emerald sea speckled with wisps of sailing boats; soft curves of white beach, lapped by gin-clear waters; scented pines and barbary cactus hugging the coastline. Like the jet-setters that followed, Prince Aga Khan was captivated by its glorious beauty in the 60s, when he developed the area for upmarket tourism; today VIPs come to play on luxury boats and in glitzy nightclubs. A minute's walk along a sandy track from Spiaggia Capriccioli, one of Costa Smeralda’s prettiest coves, is a trio of low-rise whitewashed villas with shared pool, enshrouded by gardens of aromatic myrtle and pink bougainvillea. Interiors are comfortably furnished in characterful ‘Smeralda style’: hand-painted murals, colourful tapestries, and a sprinkling of quirky trinkets from owner Geraldina. The result is stylish yet homely, and ideal for couples or families alike. Each villa is slightly different - Main House (sleeping 2-6) has a shaded outdoor kitchen built into granite rock, Stone Cottage (sleeping 2-4) has a pretty patio, and Terrace House (sleeping 2-4) has a sensational rooftop panorama over the bay; your own private VIP area. Highs Unique, charming villas; owner Geraldina has delightful tasteWonderful sea views and huge windows and terraces to enjoy themPretty Capriccioli beach is 2 minutes' walk away with turquoise sea and soft sand; you can also walk to 4 other beachesSelf catering is a joy, thanks to fantastic fresh local produce. We loved relaxed alfresco meals, in such a gorgeous settingYou feel hidden away but there's a wealth of activities close by: boat trips, stunning beaches and wine tasting Lows It's expensive and the villas are quite small, plus rates exclude an end-of-stay clean, but you're paying for style in an exclusive areaWe've received reports of a lack of hot water in the Terrace HouseStone Cottage is smaller than the others and lacks natural light and comfy indoor seatingKitchens are simple and aren't particularly well equippedThe villas aren't well set up for colder months, and the local area tends to shut down during this timeThe pool is shared between the 3 villas, although there's plenty of space and loungers for everyone" - Harriet Whiting