Photography: Cala di Volpe
Hotel Cala di Volpe
Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop
Set the scene
One can't help but marvel at the harmonious blend of tradition and luxury, with its Mediterranean architecture coupled with refined interiors. The Cala di Volpe hotel commands a captivating view of the emerald Sardinian sea, framed with lush greenery that leaves you breathless.
The hand-painted tiles, detailed wooden furnishings, and native artwork scattered throughout the Cala di Volpe lend an air of authenticity. The hotel pulsates with life during peak season, with a symphony of different languages and laughter filling the air. Not to mention, the occasional sighting of a celebrity among the international jet-setters is all part of the exciting scene that continues to uphold the hotel’s glamorous reputation.
What can we expect in our room
The rooms, unsurprisingly, continue the luxurious theme pervasive throughout the property. High ceilings provide a spacious atmosphere while light, soothing tones mirror the soothing palette of the surrounding area. Hand-painted furniture, ceramic vases, and vibrant local textiles bring out the distinct character of the space, while plush beds and contemporary amenities cater to every conceivable need.
Be ready to be swept away by the stunning views unfurling before your balcony or terrace - a mesmerizing vista of the emerald sea that Sardinia is famous for. Further, you will appreciate the assortment of room types, from the deluxe sea-view rooms to the palatial penthouse suites, catering to varying tastes and budgets. The bathrooms do not disappoint either, offering an abundance of space, marble finishes, and premium Italian toiletries.
How about the food and drinks at Cala di Volpe
The Cala di Volpe restaurant, under the direction of Michelin-starred executive chef Maurizio Locatelli, is a revelation in Mediterranean-focused cuisine. Fresh seafood caught in nearby waters, meats sourced from local farms, and fresh, hand-picked produce form the staples of its delectable menu.
Meanwhile, away from the sea and soothing strings of the alfresco dining, the spirited ambiance of the Atrium Bar invites you for a refreshing respite. The bartender masters the craft of making iconic Italian cocktails such as Negroni or Aperol Spritz, and also recommends signature specials with a local twist. After a day of exploring the rugged Sardinian countryside or lounging by the salt-water pool, what could be more delightful than raising a glass of Sardinian Vermentino or rubbing elbows with the jet set at this lively watering hole?
What about the service
The moment you cross the magical threshold of the hotel, you find yourself embraced by warm welcomes and genuine smiles that instantly make you feel at home. Be it the knowledgeable concierge, the efficient housekeeping staff, or the friendly waitstaff at the resort's restaurants, each member of the Cala di Volpe crew is equipped and ready to cater to your every whim and requirement.
And here's the fun part - the staff's interaction is never intrusive. They maintain the fine balance between being attentively present and respectfully distant, ensuring you have the much-needed privacy on your holiday. They add that personal touch, remembering your favorite Sardinian beach spot or your regular breakfast order, enhancing your overall experience. Most staff are multilingual, which breaks down the barriers and helps them connect deeper with guests.
What’s the neighbourhood scene like?
Olive groves and vineyards dot the region, creating a mesmerizing vista where azure blue waters meet lush, verdant landscapes. The nearby towns of Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo are filled to the brim with upscale boutiques and Sardinian fine dining restaurants, thus offering a perfect blend of rustic charm and sophistication.
Right outside the hotel, you'll find the Pevero Golf Club, one of Europe's most stunning golf courses, making it an ideal spot for golfing enthusiasts. For beach lovers, glorious sandy stretches such as Liscia Ruja and Capriccioli are just a short drive away, offering a perfect setting for sunbathing and water sports. The area is also home to iconic cultural attractions like the archaeological site of Nuraghe Albucciu and the Museo Etnografico Galluras, providing an intriguing glimpse into Sardinia's rich history.
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What’s the backstory?
Dating back to 1962, the Cala di Volpe Hotel stands as a reminder of the rich history of Sardinia, injected with the modern luxuries of today's elite tourism. Masterminded by French architect and designer Jacques Couelle, the hotel takes inspiration from the stazzu - typical rural dwellings of Gallura, thus deeply intertwining with the local traditions and culture. The whimsical design is heavily influenced by the local pastoral architecture, which has been transformed into an avant-garde masterpiece in a league of its own.
As part of the Starwood Hotels luxury collection, Cala di Volpe shot to international fame when selected as a filming location for the James Bond classic 'The Spy Who Loved Me'. The hotel, with its unique architecture and picturesque setting, was a definitive choice for representing a sophisticated yet unpretentious luxury. Over the years, it has become a sought-after escape for high-profile celebs such as Elton John, Sophia Loren, and even royalty like Princess Diana.
Price Range
Depending on the time of year and type of room, rates generally range from approximately $1,000 to over $5,000 per night, affirming its status as a high-end destination.
Of course, you might be wondering if it is worth it to splurge on a stay at this prestigious venue. Well, many who have had the privilege of staying here would argue that the quality of service, sheer luxury, and heavenly location justify the price tag.
Amenities & Facilities
From the breathtaking outdoor swimming pool that overlooks the beautiful blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea to the private beach where you can soak up the sun, every corner of the hotel screams opulence. For fitness enthusiasts, the state-of-the-art gym equipped with all the latest equipment is perfect for keeping up with your routine, while the tennis court offers a great way to enjoy a friendly match while taking in the stunning views.
And let's not forget about the exceptional spa and wellness center, where a team of professional therapists are on hand to provide a host of wellness treatments aimed at inducing relaxation and rejuvenation. For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, the on-site boutique shops offer an array of high-end brands and local artisanal craft work.
Families with children are not left out, as the hotel's Kids Club provides a safe and fun environment for young guests to enjoy their stay. The facility is equipped with the latest games and toys and managed by a team of trained, professional staff. For business travelers, the Cala di Volpe also houses well-equipped meeting rooms and event spaces, perfect for hosting any gathering or corporate function.
How to get to the Cala di Volpe Hotel in Sardinia
When you first set foot in Sardinia's airport, the snowy white allure of the Cala di Volpe Hotel isn't too far off. With public transport, bus line ASPO operates frequently to provide connection from the airport to the city center. From there, you can switch onto the ARST line that services the Porto Cervo area, where the Cala di Volpe Hotel is situated.
If you're not one to navigate public transport with luggage in tow, a yellow taxi awaits you right outside the arrivals gate. When you book your ride, remember to request a taxi with a rate meter or negotiate the fare upfront to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
What Customers Have To Say
They accept reservations for until 19h
That's what came to mind when I walked into this hotel and looked through the bar window out to the view and the property...
A truly unique and stunning hotel.
The architecture and interiors are unique but also consistent with local style.
The room was beautiful and the view was amazing.
The outdoor and I door gym is functional and excellent. The pool area adjacent to the boat ramp surrounded by deck chairs and resturant and bars was heavenly....you just do not want to leave the premises...one of the prettiest outdoor areas of any hotel I have stayed in...the boats coming in and out of the resort was a unique experience for me personally but typical for Sardina perhaps.
The bar and restaurants were very high quality.
The staff and service was of the highest standard...very friendly and nothing was a problem.i loved the breakfast overlooking the pool and sea water. Very memorable.
We did have an issue with a smell in our room but they swapped rooms immediately so I can't argue or complain.
The private beach had gorgeous clean green blue water...
Did not want to leave in all honesty...
Thanks again to the staff from the concierge to the waiters and front desk....I will remember you all.
If you do want to leave the resort and shop or go to other resturants u r just 10 mins away from porto cervo and the sister hotel is there amongst all the high end shops.
The private beach is incredible and would highly recommend staying there over outside beach clubs. Our experience was that the cala di volpe one was far superior to the outside ones.
The only knock on this place is the food & beverage prices are absolutely outrageous, i would even categorize them as offensive. I would guess they keep their prices high to maintain a certain level of prestige, but i think in the end it has the opposite effect.
The landscaping of the hotel is incredibly beautiful, creating a serene and picturesque environment. The hotel's beach is fantastic, accessible either by a charming five-minute boat ride or a leisurely walk. It's a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun.
The views from the rooms are truly spectacular, providing breathtaking panoramas that are simply unforgettable. However, the highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the service. The staff is friendly, professional, and genuinely welcoming, making us feel right at home.
If you have the chance to spend a few days at Cala Di Volpe, you are guaranteed to have an amazing time. Highly recommended!
Contact:
Address: SP160, 07021 Capriccioli SS, Italy
Phone: +39 0789 976111
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
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