Hotel Li Finistreddi

We recommend Li Finistreddi to families seeking a Sardinian beach resort without the tumult of Porto Cervo, and to couples who favour calm over mondaine effervescence. It is an address for those who hire a car and explore the coves of the Gallura by day, before returning to settle by the pool. Travellers in search of contemporary design or starred gastronomy will pass it by.

The resort comprises several low Mediterranean-style buildings, white facades and tiled roofs, scattered through a garden planted with myrtles, olive trees and oleanders. The architecture is functional, without particular signature, conceived to blend into the landscape rather than to mark it. The common spaces remain sober, light tiles and rattan furniture, abundant natural light. The rooms vary in size, some with private terrace overlooking the garden or the pool.

The hotel restaurant offers a classic Sardinian menu, fresh pasta, grilled fish, local meats, without gastronomic pretension but with sound produce. The buffet breakfast is taken on a shaded terrace, charcuterie, cheeses, pastries and fresh fruit. No signature chef or starred table, but room service available for lazy evenings. For a true culinary experience, one must take the car and head to the addresses in Porto Cervo or San Pantaleo.

Li Finistreddi stands in Cannigione, a small fishing port turned family seaside resort, 10 minutes by car from Porto Cervo and 25 km from Olbia. The neighbourhood is residential and calm, with a few fish restaurants by the sea and supermarkets for emergencies. The beaches of Capriccioli, Romazzino and Liscia Ruja lie less than 15 minutes away, accessible only by car. Olbia-Costa Smeralda airport is 30 minutes away, car hire is indispensable to enjoy the region.