I was lucky enough to be invited by one of our preferred partners, Classic Collection, to experience what I now understand to be "Sardinia’s best-kept secret" - Forte Village. Well, it was a secret until now!
Forte Village was built in 1970. A vast site set in the rainforest in a beautiful part of Sardinia. Catering for couples and families with both young and older children. It’s a resort in itself! It really does have everything you could want for an amazing holiday. We arrived early morning at Caligari airport and were transported in style in a black Mercedes. Travelling in convoy for 45 minutes to what would be our home for the next few days.
Upon arrival at Hotel Castello, we were greeted by the manager and friendly staff. One of the 5-star hotels within the resort, our room did not disappoint. Classically furnished, with a clean, crisp feel. Ample space, a large bathroom with rain shower and separate deep bath. It had two sinks and plenty of wardrobe and cupboard space with drawers, a huge TV and a safe. Drawing back the curtains and opening the sliding patio door, led onto a large balcony with a table and chairs. The view was staggering! The beach and sea are just meters away. It would be rude not to take a stroll down through the stunning bougainvillaea.
I'd heard that the beaches in Sardinia were something else and I was totally taken aback. Not only was the sea bright blue and clear but the sand was almost white and powder-like. Sunbeds with deep cushions were well-spaced along the shore. Meeting in reception, we walked down to the pizzeria where freshly prepared pizzas were being made in front of us. Far too tempting to ignore but first I tried the salad bar. So much choice, from succulent king prawns to fresh tuna and all that makes a refreshing salad. Right on the beach with an amazing view of the sea. After lunch, we started our tour of the resort. Set in almost 50 hectares of beautiful gardens, something truly special had been created.
The resort offers a variety of 4 and 5-star hotels and villas. Along with the 19 sports academies, a life-size Barbie house, a children's club plus much more. The first evening we were escorted to the wine cellar, where we enjoyed sampling some lovely red and white wine, accompanied by a delicious selection of hams and cheeses. We then went for a lavish dinner at the gourmet restaurant, Le Dune. Starting with salmon carpaccio marinated in citrus fruits, crunchy fennel and wasabi mayo. Typical Sardinian fregola with mussels and baked tomatoes. Turbot Darnall followed in white wine sauce and crunchy vegetables. Dessert was a vanilla ice cream coated in a rich chocolate crisp.
Breakfast at Cavalieri was amazing. All sorts of cereals, fresh fruit, yoghurts, pancakes, eggs, bacon, beans and a variety of omelettes to choose from. Everything you could need to set you up for the day ahead. After breakfast, we set off to the Aquaforte Spa Thalasso experience for the afternoon. Here we submerged ourselves in the delightful pools with varying oils and potions. There was a sea salt-bedded pool with water jets to relieve aches and pains. All set in a tropical rainforest. It was so calming and relaxing, a definite must when you visit the resort.
After a succulent steak for lunch, we wandered around the resort looking at the high-end villas. They really were something else. Hidden away in the gardens. Nobody would realise they were there until a pathway led you to a hidden gate and then wow! All beautiful properties, very spacious, high ceilings and well decorated with all the amenities. They had carefully manicured lawns and exquisite views towards the ocean with inviting pools. Dinner this evening was at the Sardinian restaurant. Very traditional, fresh and tasty. We walked to the outdoor concert area which showcases many bands. Sting will be returning to perform this summer.
Day 3 started again with another delicious breakfast at Cavalieri, then we sampled the pools and beach. A cooking class followed where we made our own pizzas - with instruction of course. I was very pleased with mine. Mozzarella, ham, mushroom and pepperoni. That evening we were taken to the Brazilian restaurant. I was amazed at the amount of meat on the huge BBQ. There were sausages, chicken, steak, venison, pork and lamb chops. It was a delicious "meat feast!"
The following morning we departed for the airport. Again, we travelled in style, in a convoy of black Mercedes. En route, we stopped at a city hotel called Palazzo Doglio. Classic rooms are set around a beautiful courtyard with a fountain. The hotel hosted an impressive restaurant, bar, coffee shop and spa. I hadn't ever thought about a city break to Caligari but this has certainly opened my eyes. Just a short flight away, packed full of history and culture plus lots of restaurants and coffee shops to enjoy while watching the world go by. Not forgetting the lovely weather - what’s not to like!
To sum up the trip. We were truly spoilt. The accommodation, food, beach, pools, entertainment and friendly staff. Nothing was too much trouble and a feeling of "home from home."
If you would like to know more about my time in Sardinia, or you are interested in experiencing this amazing destination yourself, please get in contact with [email protected] or call into the shop in Monmouth.
