The full picture

PORTO CERVO

What distinguishes the Costa Smeralda — and Porto Cervo specifically — is a combination of natural conditions and deliberate planning that is almost impossible to replicate. The water is extraordinary: the particular quality of light on the granite rocks and clear sea produces colours that photographs rarely do justice to. The development rules prevent overdevelopment. And the result is a coastline that has retained its character for sixty years while becoming one of the most recognisable addresses in the world.

Living here is a different proposition from visiting. In summer, Porto Cervo is busy, glamorous and social. From October to May, it's quiet, intimate and exceptionally beautiful — the landscape without the crowd, the sea without the boats. Many owners consider this the real season: the one where you understand why you chose the place.

The outdoor life is anchored to the sea — sailing, diving, motor boating — but the surrounding Gallura territory offers significant hiking and mountain biking in terrain that most visitors never reach. The Pevero Golf Club, one of the finest courses in Italy, is within the Costa Smeralda itself. Olbia airport is under 30 minutes away.