Villa Del Golfo Lifestyle Resort

The hotel is, undoubtedly, high-end, but it's the kind of grandeur that goes beyond having a yacht for guests to rent for an excursion (which, well, it does). Each of the hotel's details -- the long white curtains in the guest rooms that catch the breeze, or the sprawling length of the pool -- are carefully thought out. The decor throughout is traditionally Sardinian, with terra-cotta tiles, blue accents, curved and molded white walls and ceilings, and planters of succulents. The hotel is actually composed of several buildings, many of them detached units, which involves crossing the hilly, though well-maintained, grounds on paths. Overall, the layout gives the feel of a small village. Most notable, however, is that nearly every spot on the property provides a gorgeous view of the Mediterranean Sea. It's not ideal for kids or those with mobility issues, but it's lovely for couples, especially those celebrating special occasions like honeymoons or anniversaries. 

Relais Villa del Golfo & Spa is set on a hillside (meaning lots of stairs) in northeastern Sardinia, among beautiful scenery that looks out over the water. It's close to more than a few beaches -- the closest is a three-minute walk away, though rocky (there's a deck) -- and the town's beach is a 10-minute walk from the hotel. The hotel provides an extremely flexible free shuttle to and from two other local beaches. Although the hotel is located on the outskirts of Cannigione, the walk into town is just over 15 minutes (five-minute drive), but the walk back at night can be quite dark. The nearest airport, Olbia, is about a half an hour away by car. 

Relais Villa's 59 elegant rooms and suites have varying decor, but generally they showcase traditional architectural elements like smooth white walls, wood-beam ceilings, and terra-cotta tiled floors. Light hand-carved wood furniture, elegant cream linens, and sea-inspired decorations are attractive touches. A huge perk is that every room has a balcony or patio (both furnished) with at least partial sea views. Bathrooms are on the small side and have either shower/tub combos or small showers adorned in pretty tiling. They all have bathrobes, slippers, hairdryers, and quality toiletries. Also standard are a flat-screen satellite TV, minibar, free Wi-Fi, and a safe. 

Luxury Suites are located further up the hill, and a free shuttle is available for transport upon request. Similar to mini-villas in design, they have one or two bedrooms. Each has a private pool, large terrace with dining tables and loungers, and room-service breakfast included in the cost. 

The hotel's gorgeous, expansive almost-infinity pool is a highlight of the property. Immaculately well-maintained and outfitted with plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas, the pool looks out over the water and hillside. Shoulder-season guests should know it's unheated. Near here is a large hot tub on a small patio. The rustic-zen spa is located down a tucked-away flight of steps. It offers a range of treatments, a Turkish bath, heated indoor pool with resistance current, and whirlpool. The property's fitness center is surprisingly large, with a good range of equipment. There's also a small shop on site, selling clothes, ceramics, textiles, and art. 

Inside, MiraLuna Restaurant, which serves Sardinian and Mediterranean dishes, is traditionally furnished with simple wooden tables and blue cushions that add a pop of color under white ceilings. Seating is available either inside or outside on wide terraces with panoramic views, where guests can also take the free and truly excellent continental buffet breakfast. The bar, meanwhile, is a study in white, with terra-cotta floors and wicker furniture. Another bar borders the pool, with drinks lined up on shelves set into rock walls under a thatched overhang. There's also a farmhouse associated with the property where guests can go for an authentic meal (transport costs extra). 

Uniquely, Relais has its own sailing yacht that guests can book at an extra charge to go to the Maddalena islands -- many say it's worth the price for the excursion. Meeting rooms are also available, with airy, open rooms seated with stylish lucite chairs. Wi-Fi is free and available throughout the property. Free parking spaces are also provided.