Inside Sardinia: a local’s guide to luxury living in Costa Smeralda

Discover the charm of Costa Smeralda, where protected landscapes shape a unique lifestyle and property market

Ellie Pryor

05 August 2026

3 mins read

Inside Sardinia: a local’s guide to luxury living in Costa Smeralda

The glamorous Costa Smeralda is renowned for its refined luxury, pristine turquoise waters and fine sandy beaches. At its heart lies Porto Cervo, one of Italy’s premier seaside resorts, offering an exclusive lifestyle set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Knight Frank partner Immobiliare Brunati has specialised in the region’s finest properties since 1982, with its experienced team led by CEO Roberta Paterlini. Here, she shares how the unique nature of the region’s protected environment continues to shape its enduring appeal and distinctive property landscape.

Liscia di Vacca, Porto Cervo, Sardinia

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Luxury villa with an infinity pool and sweeping views over one of the world’s most captivating Mediterranean coastlines

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How would you describe the lifestyle and community in Costa Smeralda to someone discovering the region for the first time?

Costa Smeralda is an exclusive, protected stretch of coastline renowned worldwide for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and immaculate white sandy beaches. Since 1961, strict development regulations have preserved its natural beauty while shaping it into one of the Mediterranean’s most prestigious destinations.

This market is truly unique, a rare gem where tightly controlled development safeguards the environment, creating high demand within a finite supply. From Porto Cervo’s glamorous marina to secluded coves framed by red granite formations, Costa Smeralda offers unparalleled European luxury with authentic Sardinian charm.

Which of Costa Smeralda’s traditions truly capture local life?

Hidden gems include San Pantaleo, nestled in the mountains just 10 kilometres from Porto Cervo. Each Thursday, its village square becomes a vibrant showcase of Sardinian craftsmanship and culinary tradition, from handmade ceramics, textiles and jewellery to local delicacies such as aged pecorino, wild mountain honey, organic olive oils and traditional sweets.

When locals seek respite from the summer crowds, they retreat to quieter northern beaches or the surrounding mountains. Weekends often centre on relaxed lunches at family-run agriturismi, where traditional Gallurese cuisine highlights exceptional local ingredients. Many also enjoy sailing to secluded coves around the La Maddalena Archipelago, while cooler months invite hiking through cork forests and exploring ancient archaeological sites.

Annual wine festivals each May celebrate the region’s viticultural heritage, with Gallura producing some of Italy’s finest Vermentino wines. Leading wineries such as Capichera, Surrau and Siddùra exemplify this excellence. Prestigious summer regattas and international golf tournaments at Pevero Golf Club blend sport with social elegance, while traditional Sardinian festivals offer an authentic cultural experience.

How has Costa Smeralda evolved?

In recent years, Costa Smeralda has entered a new phase of evolution. Major investments have reshaped some of its most iconic hotels, including investments by LVMH and the planned reopening of Hotel Pitrizza under the Cheval Blanc brand in 2027, alongside Romazzino’s transition to the Belmond group and the development of a Mandarin Oriental.

What types of homes define the area?

Properties here are subject to rigorous architectural and environmental regulations overseen by local authorities and the Costa Smeralda Consortium. With new construction no longer permitted across its approximately 20-kilometre coastline, the market is now almost entirely driven by the resale of existing villas.

Why are international buyers drawn to Costa Smeralda?

International buyers are increasingly drawn not only by exclusivity and beauty, but by improved accessibility. Olbia Airport now offers strong connections to major global hubs including London, Paris, Milan, Dubai and New York. Ultimately, Costa Smeralda offers a rare balance of elegance, nature, security and quality of life, continuing to captivate the imagination of discerning international buyers.