Photo credit: www.cntraveler.com
In the late 1950s, the rugged coastline of northeastern Sardinia was largely untouched, home only to a few goats and their shepherds. This tranquil existence was dramatically altered when a fierce storm prompted 21-year-old Prince Karim Aga Khan to take refuge on the island. As the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims, Aga Khan found himself captivated by the island’s wild beauty and crystalline waters. His spontaneous declaration of the land as a paradise has echoed through the decades, proving remarkably prescient.
Sardinia’s raw and dramatic landscapes stand in stark contrast to the more familiar settings of mainland Italy or other European destinations. Long before Aga Khan’s arrival, author D. H. Lawrence described Sardinia as an island “lost between Europe and Africa and belonging to nowhere” in his 1921 memoir Sea and Sardinia. This sense of isolation, combined with the sight of twisted, centuries-old junipers and fragrant Mediterranean scrub, enchanted Aga Khan, who subsequently transformed a 35-mile stretch of coastline now known as Costa Smeralda.
Costa Smeralda
Today, Costa Smeralda is regarded as a luxurious enclave that attracts the world’s wealthiest individuals, featuring an impressive roster of celebrities.
Initially, the area was devoid of modern conveniences like electricity, running water, or roads. Aga Khan’s commitment to preserving the natural environment made him an early advocate for conservation, as he insisted on using local materials and traditional Mediterranean architectural styles, which integrated buildings into the landscape while respecting the region’s protected juniper trees.
As time progressed, Costa Smeralda evolved into a playground for billionaires, continuing to attract A-list celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Jeff Bezos, Elton John, and Madonna, who revel in its understated elegance. The architectural style remains in harmony with the natural surroundings, characterized by terracotta roofs, whitewashed façades, and domed arches festooned with vibrant bougainvillea.
Porto Cervo
At the heart of this luxurious paradise is Porto Cervo, a charming town that emerged in the 1960s as a retreat for the affluent. Renowned for its upscale boutiques, distinctive pseudo-Moorish architecture, and bustling marina filled with superyachts, Porto Cervo becomes a vibrant hub during the summer as visitors flock to its cobblestone streets. For those craving global flavors, the island boasts a sprawling outpost of Zuma, a rooftop sushi restaurant that overlooks the picturesque town. Additionally, the seasonal Nikki Beach pop-up offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation, serving as a prelude to the luxury brand’s branch accessible exclusively by private yacht, situated within a protected nature reserve.
For a taste of local gastronomy, Frades-La Terrazza restaurant is conveniently located just a seven-minute drive from Porto Cervo, offering sweeping views of Cala di Volpe Bay. Movie buffs may recognize the winding mountain road from Roger Moore’s iconic car chase in The Spy That Loved Me. Diners here can expect authentic, uncomplicated dishes, and one must not leave without trying culurgiones, a type of homemade pasta filled with potatoes and cheese, accompanied by a touch of tomato sauce. For an evening out, Phi Beach stands out as an ideal spot for enjoying sunset views, featuring a lively atmosphere complemented by DJ performances in one of Sardinia’s most stunning locations.
Source
www.cntraveler.com