There’s a reason why people say Italians do it better. Personally, I couldn’t agree more. Whether it’s the incredible cuisine, culture or simply their way of life, it’s a hard one to beat.
Then, add into the mix Italy’s jaw-dropping coastline and an invitation to experience it all for yourself – well, now we are talking. Is Northeast Sardinia (and those Instagram reels with gorgeous turquoise blue waters) all that it is hyped up to be?
Reader, you’re in for a treat. And, even more so if you’re lucky enough to stay at Delphina with their thermal spa facilities for some much-needed TLC, home-grown produce, and views like no other.
So if this sounds like your kind of trip alongside family or a group of your besties, this is the review for you.
An overview
Delphina Hotels and Resorts isn’t just any place to stay. Located in the Northeast of Sardinia, it is an award-winning, family-owned business comprised of 12 hotels, exclusive residences, six spas and a few insane villas. All of which can be accessed (and their facilities) if you are a guest at one of the many Delphina hotels. You can even book and split your stay across a few of the locations if exploring all of North Sardinia (East to West) is top of your list.
It doesn’t stop there. With views overlooking the sea between the Costa Smeralda, the La Maddalena Archipelago, and the Gulf of Asinara, you could even get a glimpse of Princess Ariel from The Little Mermaid movie, a 2023 classic filmed nearby. Or better yet, you can take one of Delphina’s private boats to see all the action up close.
Not to name drop either but I’m pretty sure Beyonce and Jay-Z were also recently spotted on vacay in this region, and it wouldn’t surprise me if they were hiding out in one of Delphina’s exclusive villas.
Restaurants
If you’re a bit of a foodie like me, then prepare yourself for some of the best cuisine of your life. No, seriously.
From traditional Sardinian plates to more of a buffet-styled all-you-can-eat dinner cooked right in front of you (with waiters that go out of their way to ensure you have the freshest cray caught that day), there’s plenty of restaurants to experience across Delphina’s array of Hotels and Resorts.
My favourite has to be the Caracoli Snack Bar at Resort Valle dell’Erica. Known to be one of the more cheerful settings, you are not only perched right on a private beach, but the food they serve is out of this world. I tried the sea urchin linguine alongside some of their local sashimi which was an unforgettable experience to say the least.
The spa facilities
Delphina’s spa facilities really was the cherry on the cake (but the best Italian cake you can order on the menu). The Wellness Thalasso Centre & Spa in particular at Resort Valle dell’Erica was a standout. Surrounded by granite rocks and flowered scents of the Mediterranean maquis, the natural oasis has four outside pools with seawater heated to different temperatures for the Thalasso circuit.
Not to mention, the Thalassotherapy and beauty treatments the Delphina spa has to offer complemented nicely with a steam in their Turkish bath followed by a green tea in the relaxation area. A must-try treatment is the water massage. Sounds interesting but I highly recommend (and there’s little to no impact unlike most massages).
Open for bookings from May until October, you can secure your stay today at one of Delphina’s stunning resort and hotel locations shortlisted below.
Top Three Delphina Hotels and Resort options for every budget
https://reservations.verticalbooking.com
If affordability is high on the list, you could book Villa Asinara which comes with a view of the gulf and a private pool for just £394pp for 7 nights. Shared with five of your besties, it’s a bargain if you ask me. There’s also two cots and twin beds available.
https://reservations.verticalbooking.com
This is the best resort if you are after a bit of everything. With a kid’s club, numerous restaurants, pool facilities and a beach on your doorstep, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention my favourite Wellness Thalasso Centre & Spa.
https://reservations.verticalbooking.com
This is hands down the most romantic hotel I’ve ever witnessed. Located on a hidden stretch off the Northeast Sardinian coastline, the setting is just simply beautiful. Whether it’s a book or an Italian Spritz in hand, it’s an intimate trip designed for your special loved one.