Costa Smeralda

For the cruise ship, see Costa Smeralda (ship).

The Costa Smeralda (Italian: [ˈkɔsta zmeˈralda], lit. 'Emerald Coast'; Gallurese: Monti di Mola; Sardinian: Montes de Mola) is a coastal area and tourist destination in northern Sardinia, Italy, with a length of some 20 km, although the term originally designated only a small stretch in the commune of Arzachena.

A view of the Costa Smeralda

A regional map of Gallura with the location of the Costa Smeralda

Sardegna's Costa Smeralda Drone Views

Three luxury yachts—Lady Anne, Lady Moura, and Pelorus, within the port of Porto Cervo. They are among the 100 largest luxury yachts in the world.

With white sand beaches, golf clubs, private jet and helicopter services, and exclusive hotels, the area has drawn celebrities, business and political leaders, and other affluent visitors. Costa Smeralda is one of the most expensive locations in Europe. House prices reach up to 300,000 euros ($392,200) per square meter.

The main towns and villages in the area, built according to a detailed urban plan, are Porto Cervo, Liscia di Vacca, Capriccioli, and Romazzino. Archaeological sites include the necropolis of Li Muri.

Each September the Sardinia Cup sailing regatta is held off the coast. Polo matches are held between April and October at Gershan near Arzachena.

Development of the area started in 1961, and was financed by a consortium of companies led by Prince Karim Aga Khan. Spiaggia del Principe, one of the beaches along the Costa Smeralda, was named after this Ishmaelite prince. Architects involved in the project included Michele Busiri Vici, Jacques Couëlle, Savin Couëlle, and Vietti.

See also

• Tourist destinations of Sardinia