The jewel in the crown of this emerald coast, Cala di Volpe, or ‘The Bay of the Fox’, holds legendary status in Sardinia. Among the first in a long line of luxury establishments, its waterside design by architect Jacques Couëlle continues to stand the test of time – and for good reason.

Designed as a destination unto itself, to the untrained eye a pastel-hued hamlet hugs a private marina, where the yachts of high society flock for famed culinary fare.  The barbecue buffet is the most popular draw, served poolside as the sun reaches full height. A star of the silver screen comes a close second, with those sticking around for longer than a light lunch able to enjoy Japanese Nobu-style cuisine overlooking the pier at Matsuhisa restaurant by Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa. Film fanatics may even recognise such a cinematic setting as 007’s suite in The Spy Who Loved Me.

Authenticity is in the air here; interiors with traditional Sardinian touches give a timeless character to an otherwise Mediterranean elegance. Whitewashed walls pair with tiled floors throughout, though the cool of contemporary is left to the modern suites, while the original wing retains its stained-glass windows and distinctive style. And for that extra element of privacy, consider the Presidential Suite – stretching across the entire fourth floor, relax on its rooftop terrace or by the infinity pool, without any neighbours nearby.