Doubletree by Hilton Olbia

Open since 2010, this eight-story hotel stands out because it's pretty much situated in the middle of nowhere with little around it. Flags fly out front at the street entrance, and it feels very much like a hotel that's been transplanted to the Costa Smeralda from elsewhere. Indeed, part of this hotel's appeal is its American chain style, which is predictably modern and reliable, especially when compared to some of the older three- and four-pearl hotels in this part of Sardinia. It's an atrium-style property with the lobby bar in the center and rooms rising up around it. White leather chairs and sofas provide plenty of seats where guests can hang out. In low season, the hotel attracts mostly business guests, but in season, tourists arrive to explore the area.  

This Doubletree is located on the outskirts of Olbia in an area with a few houses and not much else. Many guests have noted that the immediate area almost feels abandoned, and a rental car will likely be helpful for navigating the region. Guests can walk to town in about 15 minutes, or it's five minutes away by car. The town's main plaza has several cafes, bars, and gelaterias, and makes for charming afternoon and evening strolls. Of course, the Costa Smeralda is known for its jewel-like beaches, and it's a 20-minute drive to Marinella Beach, or 40 minutes to Porto Cervo. The airport is about 10 minutes away by car, and the port also is close by for anyone arriving or departing by ship. It will take about two hours to reach the other side of Sardinia, including towns like Alghero and it's stunning coastal cave, the Grotto di Nettuno.

Rooms are offered with either a queen or two twin-sized beds, and despite a range of configurations, all have the same pleasantly modern look. Suites are larger and have a separate sitting area with a sofa and armchair. Decor includes clean-lined mahogany-tone furniture, upholstered headboards framed in wood, and abstract art. The color scheme is blue and cream, with dark blue patterned carpeting, blue bed toppers over white linens, and white walls. Overall, the style will be familiar to many travelers used to the Doubletree brand. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, safes, and mini-fridges with bottled water for sale. Bathrooms are spacious and equally contemporary, featuring bidets, towel warmers, hairdryers, and toiletries. Marble-lined walk-in rainfall showers are a nice touch. Robes and slippers are supplied in suites, which also have separate jetted tubs and showers. Some rooms and suites have balconies with decent views of hills in the distance. 

Guests can start their day with a free breakfast buffet in Tillibbas Restaurant, which also serves Italian fare for lunch and dinner in a bright, modern space overlooking the pool. The hip Flamingos Bar in the lobby is a lovely atrium space with a skylight above that allows in lots of natural light during the day. A huge screen displays flying and standing flamingos. The outdoor pool is large and there is also a whirlpool. Lounge chairs and cabanas are available on the pool deck, and due to the lack of surrounding development the area is tranquil and quiet. The bright fitness center has a wood floor and large windows for lots of natural light, and is open around the clock. Modern equipment includes cardio machines, free weights, and exercise balls. There's also a small spa offering massage and other treatments. Four meeting rooms can accommodate groups of up to 150 people, and there's a business center with a computer and printer for guests to use. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, and parking is also free.