2 Costa Smeralda Spiaggia del Principe (also known as the Portu Li Coggi) Northeast

Granite landscapes, fantastic formations of wind and sea-sculpted rock, and a coastline scattered with islands, indented with hideaway coves and floating palatial boats — this is the Costa Smeralda. The sea around here really does sparkle like a jewel, reflecting in the diamonds and platinum of those who flock to this ‘millionaires’ playground’.

Some beaches like Cala Liscia Ruia and Spiaggia Capriccioli have easy, signposted access. But the exquisite Spiaggia del Principe, (the Prince's Beach), is more reclusive. Framed by macchia – you may even spot the odd wild boar having a root around in the backdrop of this lovely cove – especially out of season.

Reach the beach

Pass the retro-chic,fantasy Moroccan/troglodyte-style Cala di Volpe hotel to the right and before Capriccioli take the junction for Romazzino on the left. Head north and near the resort (0.5 miles) turn right towards the sea and after 328 yards (300 metres) downhill arrive at the car barrier. A short mule track — about 10 minutes on foot— leads to the shore.

3 Cala Luna — East coast

Take your pick of gorgeous beaches lining the gloriously undeveloped 25 mile coastline. Grottos, secret coves and hidden, pearly-white sands are backed by limestone cliffs, sculpted rock formations and forests of holm oak, juniper and macchia in one of Europe’s last coastal forests.

Cala Luna is a white half-moon crescent lapped by crystal-clear waters, overlooking the Gulf of Orosei. On one side of the beach there are six small caves and, nearby, is the Grotta del Bue Marino, the last Sardinian hiding place of the endangered monk seal and the largest, most dramatic of the many beautiful grottos.

Reach the beach

Cala Luna is 4miles (7 km) south of Cala Gonone, accessible by fairly rough walking down mule tracks. The last descent is very stony and a bit of a scramble. But you can always return — or arrive — on one of the regular boats from Cala Gonone.

4 Baia Chia — Southwest

South-west of Cagliari, the road along the Costa del Sud is one of the island’s most scenic along the snaking coastline, punctuated by rugged cliffs, coves and Spanish watchtowers. The beaches are magnificent with soft white sand and dunes, partly flanked by lagoons where flamingos live among the rushes.

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