Picolo recommends · Hotel in Costa Smeralda, Sardinia
Cala di Volpe
Towers, arches and warm-coloured walls around a sheltered bay, where boats for the La Maddalena islands set off from the hotel's own jetty.
Morning on the Cala di Volpe bay is mostly still water and the sound of a boat engine starting at the jetty. The hotel was designed to look like a fishing village that grew over centuries, with towers, arches and sun-faded walls.
It is one of the famous names of the Mediterranean, and it plays the part: formal service, a pool and a beach on the bay, and boats out to the La Maddalena islands. Porto Cervo and its marina are a short drive along the coast.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we chose Cala di Volpe
We chose it as the Sardinia hotel for a special occasion. Few places on the island do old-school luxury with this much polish, and the calm bay means swimming and boat trips start right at the door.
The bill is the catch. Rates are very high and climb further in August, and the formal mood suits couples better than families on a long summer break. For a relaxed week with children, look elsewhere on the coast.
What you get
- Jetty with boat trips to La Maddalena
- Beach on a sheltered bay
- Pool by the water
- Formal, attentive service
- Short drive to Porto Cervo
A day at Cala di Volpe
- Morning
- A swim in the bay before the sun gets high.
- Midday
- A boat from the jetty out to the La Maddalena islands.
- Afternoon
- A lounger by the pool with the towers behind you.
- Evening
- Dinner in Porto Cervo, a short drive up the coast.
Location
Costa Smeralda, Sardinia, Italy
Open in MapsQuestions about Cala di Volpe
Is Cala di Volpe good for families?
It is better suited to couples. The mood is formal and the prices are very high, so it works best for a short, special stay rather than a long family holiday.
Can you take a boat to La Maddalena from Cala di Volpe?
Yes. Trips to the La Maddalena archipelago can be arranged, and the boats depart from the jetty on the hotel's own bay.
When is Cala di Volpe most expensive?
August is the priciest month on the Costa Smeralda. June and September usually mean lower rates, calmer water and quieter roads.
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Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles
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