Travelers flying into Sardinia are greeted by a sight rarely seen: a sea of such an intense blue that it seems almost unreal, especially in Europe. The coastline is dotted with numerous rocky islets that, along with the stunning sea, create a haven for tourists and water sports aficionados. Islands typically have their own unique culture, tight-knit communities, and distinctive traits. Sardinia is no exception, with its history deeply embedded in the island's modern lifestyle and geography, presenting two contrasting aspects: Terra e Mare, Land and Sea. The renowned Costa Smeralda, a small section of the northeast coast, was transformed into a luxurious haven for the elite by the notable society figure Aga Khan in the 1960s. Yet, there's much more to Sardinia than this. The island boasts nearly 2,000 kilometers of idyllic coastline. Beyond the reach of mass tourism lie charming villages, towns, and pristine natural landscapes. The rugged interior is equally compelling, home to 'Nuraghe', ancient Bronze Age fortresses over 3,000 years old, with around 6,000 still standing. The Mirto bush, used to produce a local liqueur, is emblematic of Sardinia's rich flora, which includes a plethora of herbs, fruit trees, citrus, almonds, and expanses of vineyards and olive groves. The cannonau grape, linked to longevity (Sardinia is one of the 'blue zones'), is one of the oldest known grape varieties at 3,300 years and contributes to some of the finest wines in the Mediterranean.
The real estate market on this historically rich island showcases a stark contrast between 'Isola di Terra' and 'Isola di Mare.' The rugged, mountainous interior, home to 3 million sheep, and the coastal areas with their seaside resorts and opulent marinas, greatly influence housing prices. Traditional building styles, marked by the use of local Sardinian stone, are prevalent. The 'stazzu,' typically found inland, is a simple, old shepherd's dwelling, usually with just one floor. Today, new houses are being constructed in the stazzu style. The more opulent homes, often made with large natural stone blocks, are fancier and feature extensive outdoor living spaces with open-air lounges, external kitchens, and outdoor bathrooms, all contributing to a unique ambiance. Gardens with distinctive flora add to this. A house's location and view play a significant role in its value; proximity to the sea equates to higher prices. In the case of Costa Smeralda, prices can be three to four times higher, making this Jetset coast strip one of Italy's most costly areas.
In the last ten years, Sardinia has seen an increase in the development of apartments within modestly sized complexes. Purchasing a property in these developments, particularly in sought-after locations, is often quite feasible and comes with advantages such as shared amenities like swimming pools, as well as fewer worries about security and maintenance. The creative and sometimes playful architectural styles of coastal villas are often reflected in these new complexes.
In Sardinia, there's a range of options to suit every budget. Like many coastal areas in Italy, properties near the sea tend to be more expensive. Apartments within a short distance of the seafront start at approximately €300,000. Moving further inland, prices begin at around €100,000. Villas on the Costa Smeralda can start from €1 or €2 million and can go up to tens of millions. However, as you venture further inland, the prices per square metre decrease significantly.
properties in Sardinia