The 8 best hotels in Sardinia

Best for a contemporary retreat

Aethos offers a serene oasis in the rolling hills, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean landscape from every direction. Made up of rooms, suites and villas, you can choose just how far you want to be removed from reality. Villas come with private pools surrounded by nature, and the more social activities include BBQ nights, live music, wine tasting and group soundbaths. Heal your mind, body and soul with the resort's plethora of wellbeing activities and treatments. Delight in fresh produce and local wines at the authentic on-site Sardinian restaurant. 

Time Out tip: Sign up for the unmissable sailing excursion that sets off every morning from the picturesque port of Cannigione.  

Best for: cosiness 

This secluded five-hotel complex, with each hotel set in its own separate area, has spectacular facilities that include a spa, sports and water sports, ten restaurants, and evening entertainment. Rooms at Le Sabine are well-sized, and most have a balcony or terrace. Beyond the hotel, the resort overlooks the longest stretch of beach in Sardinia, and day excursions can easily be made to Santa Teresa Gallura or the island of Corsica. It’s all within an hour’s drive of both Alghero and Olbia airports.

Time Out tip: Got kids in tow? Ages 12 and under stay free (one per adult staying, excluding July and August).

Best for a secluded poolside paradise 

Is this Italy or Eden? Shrouded by olive trees, blooms and lush palm trees, this family-run hotel is filled with carefully chosen art and sculpture from its owner’s world travels. A stone's throw from the archaeological site of Nora, it boasts a typically Sardinian low-rise facade, with white plaster walls and wooden beamed ceilings, and many rooms overlook the pool. There’s a tiny spa with a hammam and, while there’s no restaurant, Pula, with plenty of bars and restaurants, is a relaxing half-hour’s walk away. Other perks include a daily continental breakfast and bike rentals for those who love taking the scenic route. Excursion bookings can also be made to nearby beaches.

Time Out tip: The beach and the centre of Pula are both around 1km away, so why not hire one of the bikes the hotel has on offer on which to explore?

Best for coastline views 

Cala di Volpe is in an idyllic setting on the Costa Smeralda, not too far from Olbia. It’s a pleasingly low-rise hotel that is a mix of traditional terracotta and white stucco, with sculptures and cool artworks, and all bedrooms come with sea-view terraces. Beyond them lie six restaurants and bars, plenty of facilities, including a Wellness centre, and an Olympic-sized seawater pool. Don’t want to share it? If money’s no object, the Presidential suite has its own rooftop pool.

Time Out tip: If you can drag yourself away from all the laidback luxury, the excellent staff can arrange all sorts for you, from from kayaking to boat trips to La Maddalena.

Best for secluded beachfront bliss

Once a 19th-century hunting lodge, this five-star gem has a wonderfully aristocratic feel. Surrounded on three sides by parkland or sea, the terrace of your individually designed room or suite may well have a panoramic view. Facilities include a heated indoor pool, and another overlooking the sea, plus a spa and gym, while the slightly formal restaurant majors on seafood. For those looking for more varied options, the hotel is close to the bars and nightlife of Alghero’s centre.

Time Out tip: Visit the Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju – otherwise known as the 'fairy houses' – while you're in Alghero. These burial chambers date back as far as 4200 BC and are just a 15-minute drive from the hotel.

Best for a luxe romantic getaway

Overlooking a beautiful bay, the location of this modern boutique resort is fabulous – especially when you take in the views from its small private beach. Spacious elegant rooms, with balconies overlooking gardens or the sea, are styled in muted tones, and all have a lounge area and luxurious bathrooms. An expansive buffet breakfast can be taken on the umbrella-covered terrace overlooking the pool area, and there’s a creative evening menu. Facilities include indoor and outdoor pools and a spa.

Time Out tip: Bookable trips from the hotel include horse riding and cultural tours, as well as trips to La Maddalena.

Best for a luxe wellness retreat

When it comes to settling down for some serious rest and relaxation, Sardinia is, naturally, a pretty popular spot. And this retreat caters exactly to those needs. Host to not just a spa and wellness centre but also a sauna, Turkish bath and a heated pool with hydromassage jets. The suites themselves are appropriately luxe, with many offering private pools and charmingly rustic decor.

Time Out tip: Fancy something a little different? The Cascioni offers birdwatching and olive-picking experiences.

Looking for your stay in Sardinia to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible? Well, you’re unlikely to do much better than the Palazzo Doglio. The all-star concierge service is happy to help you make the most of the nearby beaches and restaurants, including tips for off-site snorkelling, windsurfing and much, much more. On-site is a spa (with hydrotherapy pool) and, while the Doglio’s rooms are chic and modish, they're also kitted-out with bold artwork and striking design features.

Time Out tip: Look out for the hidden theatre in the hotel. Teatro Doglio hosts all manner of events, from theatre and dance productions to talks and live music concerts.