Back in 2020, we spent a few beautiful sunny days in Northern Sardinia. After exploring the stunning Maddalena islands, we were looking forward to relaxing in the countryside. The minute I stumbled upon Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat online, I knew I was gonna love it so we booked for 3 nights as a base to explore the Costa Smeralda. We had an amazing time there and where so happy to be among their very first guests, as the hotel had just recently opened. If you are looking for a peaceful heaven in Northern Sardinia, then Gallivant Stazzo Retreat might be just what you need!
GALLICANTU STAZZO RETREAT, A UNIQUE PROPERTY
Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat is a unique property nestled in the hills of Northern Sardinia. The retreat is a brand new renovation of an old stazzo (a traditional Sardinian farm), blending seamlessly with the surrounding nature and offering a true sense of peace and tranquility. Even though it is located only 30 min drive from the fancy Costa Smeralda, Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat feels very secluded and it is the perfect quiet escape from the busy coast line.
The property was abandoned for more than 50 years before the owners took an interest in the place and decided to give it a good clean-up! That alone took 2 years! Then together with a French architect, the owner Marco did a fantastic renovation job, preserving the traditional Sardinian estate feel while adding all the necessary modern touches making the property really comfortable.
GALLICANTU STAZZO RETREAT, ROOMS AND FACILITIES
Each one of the 5 rooms and 2 suites is uniquely decorated, cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm. We stayed in the Igna suite, which was huge for the two of us! But that was the last room left and once I had my eyes on this property, there was no way I was going to stay anywhere else. I particularly loved the locally produced amenities, the view over the garden, and the private terrace facing the almond grove.
If you want to relax and refresh after a hot day exploring Northern Sardinia, Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat has a beautiful pool sheltered between massive granite boulders and ancestral trees. In a small shed by the pool, you will find complementary tea, coffee, and ice cream!! Yes, you heard that well, free ice cream! If you are rather in the mood for a sundowner and a snack, the lovely staff can assist with that too. (The adorable kitten featured below is optional!)
Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat also has a spa, an ancient cave turned into a wine cellar and offers cooking classes, golf lessons (Marco is a passionate golfer), yoga sessions, etc.
GALLICANTU STAZZO RETREAT – THE RESTAURANT
Perched on a huge rock, with all around windows overlooking the Northern Sardinian countryside and all the way to Corsica, the restaurant area in Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat is really stunning. This is not a typical restaurant with a fixed menu, instead, the chef prepares a different degustation menu each night, taking inspiration from Sicilian traditions and focusing on fresh, seasonal and regional produces. A different menu each evening means plenty of delicious fares to try, together with a great list of local wines.
In the morning, breakfast is a mix of a la carte classics and a buffet of charcuterie, cheese, fruits and delicious homemade cakes and pastries. They also offer honey harvested from their own beehives.
USEFUL INFORMATIONS
Getting to Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat is relatively easy, with Olbia airport just 45 min drive away.
Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat opens from April to November, so visitors have a chance to experience the beauty of Sardinia during the summer months. I personally would recommend the shoulder months (April to June and September to November) to avoid the crowd. We visited Sardinia at the peak of summer (early August) and it was really busy!
The location of the retreat is ideal to explore the many beautiful sites and attractions in Northern Sardinia, including the famous Costa Smeralda, the Maddalena Archipelago, and the stunning beaches of the area.
While we loved every minute spent in Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat, there are a few considerations you might want to keep in mind before booking:
- Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat welcomes children above the age of 14 yo only,
- Unfortunately the nature of the terrain makes it hardly accessible for wheelchair users.
- The property is isolated and you will need you car to go everywhere. Most restaurants in the area would require a good 20 min drive, which can be a bit annoying especially at night.
Offering a unique and authentic Sardinian experience, Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat is really a gem and one of the nicest hotels I stayed at in Europe. Both Marco and Raffaella are fantastic hosts and always available to provide recommendations, help book restaurants or simply chat about life!
The retreat’s beautiful location, comfortable rooms, excellent facilities, and delicious food make it an ideal place to relax and unwind. If you are looking for a peaceful and secluded retreat, surrounded by nature, with a touch of luxury, then Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat is the perfect destination for you!