Basked in crystal-clear waters and a favorite destination for both lovers of glamour and seekers of tranquility, the Costa Smeralda is dotted with magnificent spots that would be a shame to miss. Sailing northward, you’ll encounter dazzlingly beautiful bays such as Golfo Pevero, renowned locales like Porto Cervo, stunning islands like La Maddalena in its namesake archipelago, and charming towns like Cannigione and Santa Teresa di Gallura. Reaching the island’s northernmost point, you can continue your journey to Corsica and visit Bonifacio, with its medieval citadel perched on a cliff.
Golfo Pevero and Porto Cervo
Heading up the coast and before reaching Porto Cervo in the Arzachena area, you’ll arrive at one of the most sought-after beaches by international tourists. This is Golfo Pevero, one of the most famous bays on the Costa Smeralda and a favorite among sailors for its easy anchoring. Its beach, Grande Pevero, is about 300 meters long and bordered by white granite rocks and lush greenery. Nearby is Piccolo Pevero, another beach within the bay, offering both equipped facilities and a free-access area.
In Porto Cervo, you can either dive into its vibrant social scene, filled with trendy clubs, boutiques, and restaurants, or explore the crystal-clear waters of Cala Granu. This secluded beach, with its fine white sand, lies in a small cove surrounded by vegetation, forming a natural amphitheater just 100 meters long.
Cannigione and La Maddalena
Less glamorous than Porto Cervo yet a favored starting point for excursions to nearby hotspots, Cannigione is perfect for those seeking a quieter atmosphere. The town boasts a local beach with golden, coarse sand and abundant amenities, as well as two lesser-known beaches ideal for relaxation: Cala Li Mucchi Bianchi to the south and Barca Bruciata (or Spiaggia Mannena) to the north. Visitors often take the opportunity to explore the Maddalena Archipelago. With access to a boat, you can easily reach the largest island and its sole town, a charming and colorful settlement developed around a natural harbor. Once a military base, La Maddalena features quaint cobbled streets, 18th-century buildings, small shops, cafes, and restaurants. The island also offers a wide variety of stunning beaches, many of which can be accessed by driving the 20-kilometer road encircling the island.
Santa Teresa di Gallura and Bonifacio
The northernmost stop along the coast is the village of Santa Teresa di Gallura. Overlooking the Strait of Bonifacio and Corsica, the area is defined by rugged coastlines, weathered granite formations, Mediterranean scrub, and, of course, the omnipresent turquoise sea. Established by King Victor Emmanuel I, the village sits atop a promontory and is centered around the square and the church of San Vittorio. The surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking and trekking to landmarks like the 16th-century tower, the Lu Brandali archaeological site, and Capo Testa, a rock connected to the mainland by a sandy isthmus. Among its many gorgeous coves, the famous Rena Bianca beach stands out for its pristine white sand.
At this point, crossing into France becomes irresistible. Corsica’s coast is only 14 kilometers away, and Bonifacio is undoubtedly worth the detour. This stunning medieval citadel clings to white limestone cliffs 70 meters above the turquoise waters of the Bonifacio Strait. While its beaches are not to be overlooked, the true allure lies in its architectural and urbanistic marvels. Highlights include the Bastion de l’Étendard, a 25-meter-high fortification dominating the harbor since the 15th century; scenic alleyways like Saint-Roch; the Genoese Gate, the main entrance to the upper town; and the Eglise Sainte-Marie-Majeure, whose foundations date back to the 12th century, making it the oldest building in Bonifacio.
