Sardinia might have been ‘discovered’ but Casa Pantaleo, a five-bedroom villa near the off-the-beaten track Italian village of San Pantaleo, is tucked away. Villages like these have earned themselves worthy accolades. The Telegraph UK has voted it one of 19 ‘Most Beautiful Italian Villages’ for good reason but the charm of Casa Pantaleo Estate, with its two private villas – the larger Casa Pantaleo and the romantic hideaway, Casa Gallo – lies in its utterly secluded location up in the hilly outcrop just above the village, a completely private and elevated retreat that’s hidden away yet conveniently close to everything.
Even though Prince Karim Aga Khan IV put nearby Porto Cervo on the map in the late 50s, Sardinia has been much-loved by bohemian artists, including Ringo Starr who penned Octopus Garden here in the summer of 1968 when he was a guest of Peter Sellers. Today, Sardinia is a magnet for an eclectic mix of sybarites who come every year to enjoy the mild climate and long summers. By midsummer, marinas bustle with the arrival of luxe yachts and sidewalk cafes and markets are a place to meet old friends and new – or simply people-watch.
The restored stone farmhouse of Casa Pantaleo is a delightful surprise: recently renovated and with contemporary interiors, it’s a superb option for large families (sleeps 8 adults and 4 children). Those who feel like relaxing and staying put can enjoy the generous pool or hot tub, play table tennis, walk or hike. Surrounded by an oasis of lawn and olive trees, and with expansive shaded terraces for alfresco entertaining, it’s easy to understand why many guests simply stay put! Oversized day beds are perfect for a siesta if you’re heading out for drinks or a meal in one of the nearby villages that evening, but it’s equally tempting to fire up the wood-fired pizza oven or enjoy a barbeque as the sun begins to dip and the rocky outcrops begin to glow in the evening light.
What we love!
• The location: it’s beautifully secluded and private with magnificent views yet close to pretty villages, beaches and marinas. You can book both villas for a multigenerational holiday or book one – they are completely separate.
• San Pantaleo village is charming: it’s only 2km away and has shops, a chemist, cafes, restaurants and bars but walking to the local market is a must, every Thursday morning – 10-15 minute walk. You’ll find everything from cashmere to cheese what is arguably the best market on the island.
• That glam Porto Cervo is not far from the peaceful haven of Casa Pantaleo – for anyone in need of a touch of glitz. Expect mega yachts, non-stop night life, boutiques and restaurants. The market is held here in summer on Friday morning. Cannigione, a quieter marina and seaside resort, has excellent shopping and a summer market on Tuesdays.
• Evenings spent making pizza – there’s a wonderful large seating area around the pizza oven. A pizza chef can be supplied for in-villa pizza evenings.
• Being able to charter a boat from the marina at Portisco, 7km away, for beautiful day out. Sail out to the beautiful coves at Isola di Soffi for the day and have a picnic onboard. The owners own a berth at Portisco with key-card access and a private parking space, which can be made available for guest use.
What you need to know…
• The nearest airport, Olbia, is 24km from Casa Pantaleo, is 25 minutes’ drive by car.
• Sardinia is well-loved for its long summers, so although it’s cooler from October to May, it welcomes visitors year-round.
• Bespoke concierge services are offered so you can book anything from a special wedding or celebration to an airport transfer, private boat charters and pre-shopping.
• Casa Pantaleo’s has a hot tub and a generous pool (may be heated at an additional cost) with showstopping views and 12 sunbeds.
• The best supermarket is in Abbiadori (7.5km) as it has a deli, bakery, fish, meat and fresh produce. The closest winery is Vigne Surrau (5km away).
• There are four other beaches close by: Rena Bianca (7.5km), Nikki Beach (7.5km), Liscia Ruja (8.5km) and Capriccioli (9.5km).
• Keen golfers will enjoy the 18-hole, Robert Trent Jones-designed Pevero Golf course, 9km away.
Reviewed by Michelle Snaddon