Lanthia Resort

Tourism may be what’s booming in Sardinia now, but it’s a relatively recent development, at least compared to continental Italy. This island still feels wild in ways the mainland has long forgotten, and for hoteliers, this rapidly expanding audience is an excuse to write a new history. Lanthia Resort, on the island’s east coast (midway between Olbia and Cagliari airports), makes the most of this wildness. In so stunning a place, the toughest challenge might just be to stay out of the way and let the locale speak for itself — and that’s exactly what Lanthia has done.

Not that there aren’t some significant improvements. The rustic stone construction of this old structure is used as a frame to contain some impressive modernist design. Clean lines and soothing textures make the interiors quite easy on the eye, and the guest’s attention is continually called back to the outdoors. There’s an infinity pool at the heart of the estate, and if that’s not quite enough, there’s a private beach within walking distance — however rugged this coastline, there are still pockets of pure pleasure.

Among Sardinia’s attractions, incidentally, is the cuisine, and here at Lanthia everything is local, of necessity. This means not just ultra-fresh seafood but some impressive dairy and produce as well, all served in an environment that’s visually appealing yet far from over-designed — more than a little bit like Lanthia itself, come to think of it.

Please note: Lanthia Resort is open seasonally from May thru September.

How to get there: Lanthia Resort is located approximately an hour and a half by car from Cagliari Airport. Transfers can be arranged by the hotel at the cost of €200 each way.