Albero Capovolto, Costa Smeralda, Sardinia - Explore & Book
"This blissful hilltop hideaway is a world apart from the daily grind. Peaceful, indulgent and eclectically decorated by debonair Alessandro - the youngest of a Milanese fashion family who spent childhood summers here - it opened in 2014 and has been gaining loyal fans ever since, but the atmosphere remains intimate and exclusive. No pressure or urgency, just a gracious dolce vita of delicious homemade breakfasts, secret white-sand beaches, chilled Vermentino at sunset, and al fresco dinners that celebrate your surroundings. Life flows seamlessly between two outdoor living spaces – one facing the pool, the other the afternoon sun – which spill onto bougainvillea-framed lawns. Cushion-strewn sofas, vintage fittings and salvaged barber's chairs invite you to relax, while lamps made from colour-matched fabric spools evoke his design background. Seven bedrooms are simple and effortlessly elegant. The master suite in the main house is huge, with its own living room and patio; for more privacy, book the separate garden suite a short walk away, with its own relaxation area under an olive tree. Highs Only 20 minutes' drive from Olbia airport, itself only 2 hours flight from the UK (London and regional airports) If you tire of beaches, there are Bronze Age citadels, wineries, pastel villages hidden in granite hills From beekeeping to cheese-making, there are a range of classes to try your hand at The swimming pool is really the final piece in this idyllic jigsaw Alessandro is a very thoughtful host, always happy to share his favourite restaurants, boat trips and local highlights Lows To fully explore the surrounding area and beautiful beaches you’ll need a car It’s a converted family home, so don’t expect hotel-style reception or all-day staff No TVs or radios in the rooms, but this is your chance to switch off" - Michael Cullen
