The small boutique hotel Albero Capovolto is located in the north of Sardinia, not far from Olbia International airport. With our rental car we took the road up to Porto Rotondo and reached the entrance of the hotel after a mere 15 minutes drive. The house is surrounded by other big privately owned villas. The gates are decorated with pink flowers and it’s a joy to arrive at this truly hidden gem.
The house
Ten years ago, Alessandro opened his parents’ former holiday home as a boutique hotel. And what a hotel it is! You glide through the entrance gate up to the stone villa, walk through the living room onto the veranda – and end up in a Garden of Eden. The host is usually around and greets you personally. Then you drop into one of the armchairs – and you’re in perfect holiday mode.
Alessandro used to live in the house with his parents and four brothers during the summer holidays. He says: “It’s a part of me. That’s why I want the guests to love it as much as I do.” And indeed, he pays a lot of attention to detail.
The garden is an oasis, an explosion of colours and scents that changes with every season. Between olive trees, vines, fruit trees, herbs and indigenous plants, there is a vegetable garden. Various types of vegetables and herbs are grown here according to the needs of the Albero Capovolto kitchen. And the infinity pool at the end of the garden gives you the feeling that you could be swimming in the Sardinian countryside.
We also discovered a small boutique, a green glass house where you can buy all kinds of treasures.
But the Albero Capovolto lives most from its flair. You quickly feel at home. In any case, you can find out about the little insider tips on the island and navigate your way through Sardinia and your holiday in the best possible way.
The rooms
There are seven rooms in total. Two very nice, spacious suites, as well as two superior rooms upstairs, and three rooms in the basement. These are the former children’s rooms. You can recognise them by the fact that Alessandro has put a cover over the air conditioning system with a portrait of his brother. All rooms have direct access to the garden and are therefore very bright and have been personally furnished by Alessandro with antiques and unique pieces from the region. While the suites and superior rooms stand out for their size, the standard rooms in the basement are a cosy nest. (The latter are also cheaper, and at Albero Capovolto you spend most of your time in the entire house, in the living room and especially in the garden).
We really liked the fact that the bed linen was also made by local craftsmen.
Culinary
In the morning there is a very rich breakfast. 5 stars for the preparation and cooking! Here too: Alessandro wants to introduce his guests to Sardinian cuisine. As far as possible, nothing is imported and he even offers tours to visit his producers. Except for Mondays Albero Capovolto also serves a candlelight dinner. You are shown the menu in the morning and can then decide whether you want to join in. We can only recommend it. What’s on the menu? Slow food, little meat, lots of fish, plenty of seasonal vegetables. Everything is served Pretty Hotels style.
A special wine list was created in collaboration with a Sardinian sommelier, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the island’s culture once again thanks to the small, family-run wineries. That’s extra bonus points.
The region
The most beautiful bays in Sardinia are just 15 minutes away. Should you also drive up to mingle with the Jet Set in Porto Cervo? Rather not. Better choose one of the small restaurants that Alessandro presents on a map. It is filled with insider tips and is given to you on arrival. If you want to take a look at the beaches beforehand, the nearest ones are called Spiaggia di Ira and Spiaggia di Marinella.
Ideal for
A week’s first class Sardinia holiday with that extra personal touch. With the personalised dinners and recommendations, this place is one of the most luxurious places you will find on the whole island.
Kids
Must be older than 12 years.
Prices
Doubles around 300 euros per night including breakfast.
Booking & Contacts
Albero Capovolto
Strada Su Donnigheddu, 13
07020 Golfo Aranci / Olbia
Italy
@Hannes Kläger
