Okay, in Paris, we've pulled out our jackets, and sneaky rain is threatening to ruin our good hair day. We're just telling you like it is: right now in Cagliari, it's 28°C with bright sunshine. How about we dust off our swimsuits and treat ourselves to a sun-soaked escape in Sardinia? It's the perfect spot for a quick getaway, and we've found a 5-star hotel offering fantastic rooms starting from €200. The codename? Palazzo Tirso Cagliari - MGallery. So, come along with us.
A PALACE WORTHY OF THE WHITE LOTUS
From the outside, not far from the center of Cagliari, Palazzo Tirso (for short) looks every bit like a splendid Italian palace from the early 20th century, with its Neo-Renaissance façade adorned with extravagant balconies and columns (minimalism is for the Nordics). But inside, this architectural gem has been completely renovated to become a sumptuous hotel where you'll hardly need to step outside. It has it all, starting with comfortable, contemporary luxury rooms and well-lit bathrooms. Don't forget the L'Occitane spa with a pool, whirlpool, and sauna (body massage starting from €60).
ROOFTOP PASSION
The rooftop at Palazzo Tirso is a true living space, offering the joy of an infinity pool under the Sardinian sky with an incredible view of the city and the sea. Between laps, you can order a potentially Instagrammable cocktail (blue, green, purple... €12-€15), enjoy a local-style pranzo with focaccia, raw scampi, and guanciale (yum, €22), or go for the more classic tomatoes/burrata version (€15). Or, you can opt for the lobster club sandwich, which you'll rave about (€24). Cool fact: DJ sets add rhythm to these beautiful evenings, enhancing the dolce vita atmosphere and encouraging a few dance steps facing the Golfo degli Angeli.
GASTRONOMIC DELIGHTS
Downstairs, you'll gather for an elegant dinner with four or seven-course menus (€55-€75), exploring Sardinian products elevated by Chef Emanuele Scarello: Tortelli di pecorino, Maialino e pak-choi, Pasta, vongole e bottarga... all complemented by extraordinary wines sourced (naturally) from Sardinia (Capichera, Serranu... €65).
AND WHAT TO DO AROUND?
While in Cagliari, make the most of your time by:
- Having breakfast at the old port
- Booking a catamaran boat ride with Palazzo Tirso
- Exploring the historic neighborhoods of Stampace, Marina, Castello, and Villanova
- Strolling among the extraordinary plants at the Botanical Garden
- Climbing the steps of Bastione San Remy
- Splashing around on Poetto Beach (just a 10-minute drive from the hotel).
Rooms starting from €200. Suites starting from €600.
Also, discover a dolce vita getaway in Roquebrune
