Destination and Design
Sardegna! Sardinia! Bonus: LA gem Da Barbara
This week centered on reacquainting myself with all things Sardinia aka Sardegna, Italy. I don’t believe I’ve shared here (yet) that it’s my heaven on earth. An A+ dream destination. The crystalline, turquoise water…the villages…the food…the people. It’s a Blue Zone with 10 times more centenarians per capita than in the U.S.
Whether you’re visiting Italy for the first time and want to tack it on (there are quick flights from Florence or Rome) or you’re an Italy pro ready to venture off the beaten path, magical Sardinia waits for you.
On Monday, I met up with one of my favorite humans in the hotel industry, Carla Rolim De Piccoli. She’s the Sales Manager to the Americas for an astounding property in the south of the island, Forte Village. Carla is one of those hoteliers that not only knows her (massive) property like the back of her hand, she’s genuinely lovely and the brightest light at industry gatherings. She’s the sort that us leisure advisors not only adore working with, but also consider a true friend. Gosh, I love what I do. So lucky.
I’ll follow this newsletter up with an itinerary detailing a week on Sardinia, with Forte Village as the first stop. I’ve been meaning to do a write up on this fabulous getaway for forever. It has, somehow, been almost two years since Carla welcomed me to the impressive grounds.
There are villas perfect for multigenerational families, posh hotels for couples, so many food and beverage options to choose from, live entertainment (there was an Italian Beatles cover band when I was there and they were beyond), sporting activities and training camps for all ages, luxury shopping…it’s a unique resort that truly has it all.
For a visit to Forte Village, you’d fly into Cagliari, the island’s capital, then take a scenic 45-minute ride south. Cagliari’s interesting in its own right and merits more than a mere stop. I built in a night’s stay on the way back out and was treated to an impeccable dinner.
Speaking of dinner, let us now journey to the north of Sardinia, where the Muntoni family’s luxurious 5-star properties await. Alessandro Muntoni hosted a small group of us on Tuesday at Da Barbara in Hollywood.
Y’all. It was such a treat. I consider myself pretty with it re: LA restaurants, especially Italian spots. This had slipped under my radar but I’m thanking my stars I’m now in the know.
Barbara opened her restaurant about a year ago. It’s an intimate, homey, beautiful space, one that’s perfect for a special dinner or private event. Everything is lovingly prepared in her open kitchen right beside the tables.
I felt like I’d walked into a friend’s cozy dining room—a friend who has impeccable taste and even sharper culinary skills. We enjoyed an exquisite tasting menu but she also accepts dining reservations Wednesday through Saturday.
Back to our gracious host Alessandro, owner of two stunning hotels: the family friendly Valle dell’Erica and dream honeymoon destination Hotel Capo d’Orso.
Both properties feature thalasso water therapy unique to Sardinia. The pools are filled with heated seawater at varying degrees. They’re mineral-rich, soothing, and a relaxing compliment to other spa treatments.
Also notable, both properties are family owned and operated. Valle dell’Erica boasts a mile of private coastline, with many opportunities to enjoy the beach directly on the sand, or on platforms dotted throughout the property. Wander until you find your own little hidden nook or take in the sea views from a beachside restaurant.
Since they’re situated at the top of the island, boating to small islands around the archipelago or even a day trip to Corsica is a must. Spend a day lazing away on your boat, taking in the coastline from a new vantage point. They’re also right by Costa Smeralda, an area of Sardinia known for glitzy yachts and designer shops. Very see and be seen vibes. Dolce vita to the max.
So, that’s a little taste of what Sardinia has to offer. I’ll dive a little deeper with an itinerary for my favorite part of the island (Baunei, baby) next week. If you’ve got questions for that summer Italian vacay, I’m here for ya.
Sage Travels,
H