Porto Cervo

Porto Cervo is tucked away in a north-western corner of the magical island of Sardinia and is at the centre of one of the most famous coastlines in all the world - the lovely Costa Smeralda (view article here).

What awaits you on this coastline are some of the most amazing beaches that Maria and I have found anywhere on earth.

This vibrant coastal town is not just a paradise for beach lovers, but also a cultural hotspot that will captivate your senses.

One of the must-visit attractions in Porto Cervo is the MdM Museum, short for Monte di Mola Museum. Prepare to be amazed by its superb collection of art that spans various periods and styles. From contemporary masterpieces to thought-provoking installations, this gallery is a feast for the eyes and a haven for art enthusiasts.

As you wander through the museum's halls, you'll discover works by renowned artists that will leave you in awe of their creativity. The carefully curated exhibitions provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, showcasing the talents of local and international artists alike.

But it's not just the art that makes Porto Cervo special. The town itself is a masterpiece, with its charming streets lined with boutiques (very expensive boutiques), galleries, and cozy cafes. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the vibrant atmosphere as you immerse yourself in the local culture.

To be honest the pretentiousness of the Costa Smeralda used to be a little tiresome but now that the nearby Olbia airport offers cheap flights from all over Europe things have improved and many normal people are beginning to arrive.

If you do want to see the 1% acting it up then try to get into one of the exclusive nightclubs or bars.

Where to Eat

Like many of the people in the town, many of the restaurants are of the high-priced and low-substance variety. I leave these sorts of places feeling empty, and Maria fumes about hearty Italian cuisine being ruined by French ideas of "cuisine".

There is not a single restaurant that I can recommend that provides value for money.

Where to Stay in Porto Cervo

Like much else in Porto Cervo it's possible to pay a fortune and get very little.

One place though where the opposite applies and you do actually get good value for your money is the Hotel Balocco.

If you have pots of money stay with the international film stars at the Pitrizzia Hotel. That's the Pitrizzia's swimming pool in the photo below.

Photos of Porto Cervo's Beaches by Massimo Arrais