Porto Rotondo

Porto Rotondo on the Emerald Coast in north-east Sardinia, Italy.
Porto Rotondo and its marina, in north-east Sardinia, Italy.

About Porto Rotondo

a picture of porto rotondo on the costa smeralda in north east sardinia
Seen from the water, Porto Rotondo, Costa Smeralda.

Porto Rotondo is located between the Gulf of Cugnana and the Gulf of Marinella, 13 kilometers north of Olbia. Together with Porto Cervo, the “capital” of the Emerald Coast, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations of the Costa Smeralda. Some of its beaches make up the crown to the Emerald Coast, and its marina offers a safe haven to over 600 boats of all sizes. The area surrounding Porto Rotondo is divided into three parts: Punta Nuraghe, Punta Volpe, and Punta Lada. At the heart of this charming village is the Piazzetta San Marco, a peaceful square where locals gather for conversation and tourists lounge in quaint cafe’s enjoying their morning coffee. Ideal for a either short getaway or an extended stay, Porto Rotondo is a small port with a big reputation and some of the most stunning scenery anywhere along the coastline. This unassuming village is home to one of the most authentic travel experiences in Sardinia which is largely due to the lesser number of tourists in comparison with some other well known destinations. However, this most certainly does not give way to “lesser” experience as Porto Rotondo allows for a wonderful insight into the workings of a small town coastal village and retains an overall immersive local experience for the visitor, while still offering all the comforts of the modern world. Named after the circular nature of the bay on which it was built, Porto Rotondo has a very unique appearance in that the port itself is almost entirely enclosed, while on the outer side of this sheltered bay, you can find the most idyllic beaches and a number of exclusive resorts in between. The village is picturesque in every sense and most notable is the collage of colors of the surrounding area, from the reflection of the sun on the many expensive yachts docked in the harbor, the stunning white sandy beaches, the turquoise blue of the Mediterranean, to the green and luscious sporadic spaces. Although the nearby beaches are often referred to as paradise in appearance, the rolling landscapes and hills that stretch outward from the town are as idyllic as they come and leave little wonder as for why so many tourists return to vacation in Porto Rotondo on a yearly basis. Developed in the late 1960’s by a wealthy Italian aristocrat (DonĂ  delle Rose), this tiny port is now considered a luxury resort which is easily evidence in the number of expensive yachts in the harbor, not to mention the increase in exclusive hotels or villas that crop up in the surrounding area every year. Infused with a large number of fine dining restaurants with world class cuisine, charming cafe’s serving high quality blends of coffee, a surprisingly vibrant nightlife and prominent historical attractions such as the San Lorenzo Church and a man made amphitheatre, Porto Rotondo has something for everyone, albeit it sometimes comes with a monetary value. The perfect base for day trips by boat to beaches like Spiaggia dei Sassi and Punta Asfodelo, Porto Rotondo is a stunning destination where natural scenery meets an authentic local village and having made the effort to reach this pocket in the north-east of Sardinia, one thing is for sure; you will enjoy all it has to offer from the moment the sun reaches the sand and then remembering it long after it goes down.

Porto Rotondo Map

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Where to Stay in Porto Rotondo - Our Top Picks

Hotel Colonna San Marco

  • A 4 star Hotel in Porto Rotondo, 0.3 kilometers from the center of town (about 0.2 miles.)
The cozy Hotel Colonna San Marco on the Piazza San Marco.

Located right in the center of Porto Rotondo, Hotel Colonna San Marco is a short distance from Olbia Costa Smeralda airport and even closer to popular hotspots such as Golfo Aranci. Costa Smeralda is among the most picturesque regions on the island of Sardinia and staying at the Hotel Colonna San Marco is a great way to feel immersed in this natural beauty. While the location is impressive, this charming hotel is also fully equipped with world class amenities including a sublime free-form swimming pool which opens up to beautiful views of Piazzetta San Marco Square. For those who prefer to swim at the beach, the property is also just a few minute walk from white powdered sands. Since the hotel is situated in the middle of Porto Rotondo, you will find that everything is easily accessible such as the charming promenade just a few steps away. It is also here, on the promenade, you will find several trendy boutiques with Italian made goods and a long lineup of bars and restaurants serving local cuisine. That being said, the hotel is renowned for having one of the most delectable breakfasts on the island and offers an idyllic spot to enjoy lunch on the wooden veranda and drink in the panoramic views. As for the rooms, Hotel Colonna San Marco is stylish and comfortable in every way. Furnished with authentic Sardinian décor, the interior is often the subject of 5-star feedback with beautiful wooden furniture and pastel-colored beddings throughout. In fact, the rooms are wonderfully bright and cozy while also retaining a distinctly Sardinian tradition. There are single, double and triple rooms with some rooms overlooking the stunning views of San Marco square. Each room is furnished with a minibar, air conditioning system, telephone, safe and flat screen TV, and there is also Wi-Fi all throughout the hotel. Simply put, Hotel Colonna San Marco is a delightful boutique hotel with a central location yet also enough enticing features to make this feel like your little hideaway in Sardinia.

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Residence Stella Di Gallura

  • A 3 star Hotel in Porto Rotondo, 2.6 kilometers from the center of town (about 1.6 miles.)
Gorgeous views at sunset, at the Residence Stella Di Gallura, in Porto Rotondo, Sardinia, Italy.

Set in beautiful gardens that feature an ample size swimming pool, Residence Stella Di Gallura is a popular hotel on the island of Sardinia. Located close to the airport and less than five hundred meters from the nearest beach, it is also nicely situated to provide a relaxing break with minimum travel time. Upon entry to Porto Rotondo, you will immediately find the Residence Stella Di Gallura with so many facilities on the doorstep including supermarkets, pizzerias, bars, restaurants, boutiques, etc. Because of this strategic location, you can also explore the nearby tourist spots at ease, while passing through the most beautiful Italian villages in Costa Smeralda. As mentioned, the area is overflowing with lush greenery, and several immense yachts docked at the nearby port. If you want to go shopping, you could also head to Olbia, where huge shopping centers offer the finest Italian goods. Meanwhile, in the evening, you could take a romantic stroll at the nearby beaches or through the historic town center in Olbia. Furthermore, in the summer, you will find several stalls selling a wide variety of local goods and other Italian delicacies. Moral of the story; there are many things to do in the area. At the same time, if you do not feel like venturing out, you can still enjoy the amenities at the hotel. Perhaps, you might take a dip in the ample sized swimming pool. Alternatively, there are several parasols and sun loungers where you can sunbathe and relax after swimming. When hungry, there is also a restaurant in the hotel which serves the most delectable Sardinian dishes and this is often the main topic in five-star reviews. As for the rooms, apartments, and studios at Residence Stella Di Gallura – they never fail to impress. Consisting of an ample sized living room, fully equipped kitchen, and dining area, these rooms are fantastic and have all the comfort you could hope to expect as well as a covered patio outside.

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Hotel Palumbalza Porto Rotondo

  • A 4 star Hotel in Porto Rotondo, 2.2 kilometers from the center of town (about 1.4 miles.)
Splendid views at the four-star Hotel Palumbalza.

Situated between crystal clear waters in the Mediterranean and the surrounding lush vegetation, Hotel Palumbalza Porto Rotondo is ideally located in every regard. In fact, the nearby beach is within walking distance, while Porto Rotondo, one of the most popular tourist spots in Sardinia, is just a few kilometers away. Featuring an exclusive marine, Porto Oro serves as the crown jewel in the resort and can accommodate yachts up to fifteen meters long. Interestingly, the hotel can also arrange private tours on some of these ships so you can go venture into nearby bays and enjoy the beautiful coastline up close. Consisting of simple yet well-refined architecture, Hotel Palumbalza Porto Rotondo is surrounded by patios and flower gardens, which are perfect for relaxing and winding down on an intimate Sardinian holiday. Sitting next to the Gulf of Marinella, it also overlooks the ocean, while the best-known attractions on the island are also nearby. In the hotel itself, you will find a scuba diving center for guests who feel a little more adventurous, but there are also various sporting facilities, such as a football pitch and tennis court. In the midst of the massive garden is a playground where kids can spend some time playing while parents get on with their activities and there are even function rooms that cater to seminars, meetings, and conferences. As for the suites, the rooms at Hotel Palumbalza are spacious and well decorated with some suites opening up to stunning sea views and luscious green lawns. Each room is also furnished with a satellite TV, air conditioning system and other amenities to make your stay even more relaxing. With that said, it must be noted how the facilities at this particular hotel never fail to impress, from the treatment spa and massage room to the gym and excellent beauty shop.

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Villa Arena

  • A 4 star Villa in Porto Rotondo, 0.5 kilometers from the center of town (about 0.3 miles.)
a picture of the living room and kitchen of Villa Arena in Porto Rotondo, north-east Sardinia, Italy.
The living room and kitchen at Villa Arena, an exceptional holiday villa in Porto Rotondo.

Villa Arena is nicely located near the famous town of Porto Rotondo, in the heart of the Costa Smeralda. This exceptional rental villa is just a few minutes walk away from the village's promenade, where there are plenty of pizzerias, restaurants, and bars. Furthermore, Villa Arena is also a short walking distance away from a handful of must-see beaches, and there is a free shuttle service within the village that can take visitors to Punta Volpe and Punta Nuraghe, as well as to the various other beaches near Porto Rotondo. Built in the traditional architecture of the Emerald Coast, the holiday villa features a spacious private outdoor pool that comes with barbecue facilities so you can share a sumptuous barbecue with your loved ones while enjoying the outdoor views. Furthermore, this charming villa in north-east Sardinia is equipped with modern amenities. It’s fully air-conditioned and has kitchen facilities so you can cook your own food. Upon entering, you’ll be greeted with a spacious and fully furnished living room. Aside from the living room, there’s also a kitchen island that can double as a breakfast nook. As for the sleeping quarters, these spacious rooms are ideal for couples, large groups, and families with kids. Overall, the villa has three double bedrooms and another bedroom which is equipped with a bunk bed and two bathrooms which features an inviting bath tub.

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Things to Do in Porto Rotondo

Visit Chiesa San Lorenzo

Located in north-east Sardinia, the Church of San Lorenzo is often said to be quite unassuming on the exterior but fascinating on the inside. Built in 1971 by Mario Ceroli and Andrea Cascella, this small church is located at the center of Porto Rotondo next to the Piazza San Marco. A beautiful megalithic cross marks the entrance, which opens up to an impressive altar and small atrium. Featuring a polished glass windward beautiful artwork, this is also one of the most memorable churches in this part of Sardinia. You will find plenty of artwork inside by famous artists like Fini, Ceroli, and Cascella. The granite features in the courtyard only serve as a further reminder of the architectural genius involved. Much of this artwork contains references to great works of art such as the Last Supper and the Tree of Life. Chiesa San Lorenzo is a hidden gem, and visitors often mention this online. The striking bell tower is sometimes the only way to locate this beautiful little church at the heart of Porto Rotondo.

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Marina di Porto Rotondo

Porto Rotondo Marina is located in a small bay between Punta Volpe and Punta Nuraghe in north-east Sardinia. With a lively port area and unrivaled views of the sea, this is a beautiful place to stop over and experience a quiet yet authentic side of Sardinia. This quaint marina has an international reputation when it comes to nautical awareness. Furthermore, the surrounding area has transformed this marina into a tourist hotspot in the Mediterranean. But that’s just part of the story. You see, Porto Rotondo Marina was used by the ancient Romans and became an important trading port back in these times. Two thousand-year-old columns can be found at the entrance, which further testifies to the fascinating history behind the region. Aside from a prestigious yacht club, you will find the necessary facilities in the marina and clean toilets and showers. This marina is best known for being the perfect place for an afternoon stroll and an opportunity to soak in some of its rich history.

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More Places to Visit Near Porto Rotondo

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Golfo di Marinella

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Baja Sardinia

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Portisco

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Porto Rotondo Restaurants - Where to Eat

Gintilla (Vegan, Vegetarian)

🏠 1, Piazza casbah, Porto Rotondo, Sardegna, 07026, Italy.
📱 Telephone: +39 0789 34885

Gintilla is a charming restaurant in Porto Rotondo with a variety of dishes for vegetarians and vegans. This variety is arguably the highlight of the eatery with a wide selection of fresh vegetables to gratify the senses and many bread options made from the finest organic grains. Located at the heart of town, Gintilla is easy to access and quite well-known to locals. At the same time, the friendly staff is often mentioned in online reviews, while a quiet ambiance provides the perfect setting for breakfast, lunch or dinner. While breakfast is served a la carte from the open kitchen, lunch consists of a buffet with many salads, different kinds of pasta, and local delicacies. Gintilla is also known as a slightly up-market restaurant in Porto Rotondo with comfortable chairs, smooth wooden tables, and a lovely outdoor terrace. With this in mind, this eatery is bright and spacious while the vegan/vegetarian style is sure to please those with such requirements.

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da Giovannino (Seafood)

🏠 B11, Piazza Quadra, Porto Rotondo, Sardegna, 07026, Italy.
📱 Telephone: +39 0789 35280

Giovannino Romano was renowned for providing one of the most exclusive dining experiences on the island when he first arrived in Sardinia. Today, the dining room is managed by Signora Anna and the Romano brothers including Giovannino Jr as this Porto Rotondo restaurant continues to thrive. Featuring a beautifully elegant interior with wooden furnishings and a very natural feel, this is also one of the most charming restaurants in Porto Rotondo. As for the food, you will find a delightful range of seafood on offer and many local dishes including sublime homemade pasta. For example, the fresh sole is seasoned to perfection, while both the spaghetti carbonara and cheese ravioli never fail to impress. The restaurant insists on only the freshest ingredients, and every meal is cooked to order. What’s more, da Giovaniino has an attractive wine bar and some of the most exquisite wines from the region. When you combine the friendly staff, excellent food, and a warm setting, da Giovannino is one of the best restaurants in Porto Rotondo with an experience that more than lives up to its reputation.

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How To Get To Porto Rotondo

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The nearest airport to Porto Rotondo is Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, at a driving distance of just 19 kilometers. Head north by following the Strada Statale 125. After about 8 kilometers, head north-east by taking the Strada Provinciale 99 in the direction of Rudalza and Porto Rotondo. The trip shouldn't take you longer than 25 minutes.

Beaches Near Porto Rotondo

a picture of spiaggia punta nuraghe in porto rotondo sardinia

Spiaggia Punta Nuraghe

On the other side of Spiaggia Ira you'll find Punta Nuraghe, a small beach with a length of about 80 meters. It faces west, featuring ...
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a picture of spiaggia punta volpe in porto rotondo

Spiaggia Punta Volpe

Spiaggia Punta Volpe is one of the most beautiful beaches of Porto Rotondo. Situated in a cove shaped like a half moon, this beach faces ...
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a picture of spiaggia dei sassi in porto rotondo sardinia

Spiaggia dei Sassi

Just a few hundred meters east of the marina of Porto Rotondo, in the direction of Punta Volpe, you'll find Spiaggia dei Sassi. It consists ...
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a picture of rudargia beach on sardinia

Spiaggia Rudargia

Rudargia beach (Spiaggia Rudargia) is a small beach near Porto Rotondo and Ira beach - at the southern border of the famous Costa Smeralda area ...
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the beach named Spiaggia di Ira and its surroundings in Porto Rotondo, Emerald Coast, north-east Sardinia, Italy.

Spiaggia di Ira

Spiaggia Ira is located between the Gulf of Porto Rotondo and Cugnana, in Punta Nuraghe, Sardinia. It is the main beach of Porto Rotondo, and ...
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