Autumn in Sardinia: why you should go now and how to find the perfect getaway.

Sunny summer in Chia, Sardinia

According to The Sun: I enjoyed relaxing on the soft white sand as the crystal clear waters washed over my feet, feeling as though I had found paradise on Earth.

This took place in Chia — a village in southern Sardinia, known for its rugged landscape and coastal lagoons filled with flamingos, which the locals call 'sa genti arrubia', meaning 'red people'.

When I got tired of quiet days by the pool, the resort became a wonderful base for travel. Cagliari is the perfect place for day trips.

Luxury at Conrad Chia Laguna

Although Sardinia is officially part of Italy, its southern coast is closer to Africa, which makes it warm even in October. The temperature this month hovers around 20 degrees, which is very pleasant.

I stayed at Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia, where I worried about nothing but enjoying the autumn sun. This five-star Hilton hotel is located just an hour's drive along the coast from the island's capital, Cagliari.

The hotel has 17 categories of rooms that are suitable for all types of guests — from multi-generational families needing connecting rooms to honeymooners seeking privacy.

My suite with a large bed and private garden impressed me with its space, wooden ceilings, and stylish cream sofas.

In the evenings, I spent time in the garden, lounging on a sunbed and enjoying the warm sea breeze, watching the sunset over the 16th-century Chia tower.

Among the many restaurants on the premises, La Terrazza is the main breakfast spot, serving delicious dishes such as traditional English breakfast, Italian hams, cheeses, and local honey.

In the evening, I tasted the local fish, amberjack with black garlic, which amazed my taste buds.

If you prefer sand and sea to serene swimming pools, guests also get access to two beach clubs located just a few minutes away via a free private shuttle.

Guests can enjoy their time at the beach, relaxing from sunbed to restaurant, but for complete relaxation, visiting the Conrad Spa and fitness center is a true delight.

I signed up for a massage and was thrilled to feel relaxed as the masseuse worked on my muscles using oil from the lentis plant, known for its healing properties, which really helped.

Beaches and active recreation

Be sure to visit the Bioaquam circuit — a spa program with three outdoor hot tubs, a steam room, sauna, and other pleasant experiences.

To enjoy the sand and sea, guests can also visit two nearby beach clubs using a free private shuttle. Monte Cogoni Beach has 60 steps leading down to a cozy beach with umbrellas and sunbeds.

Campana Dune Beach has facilities for people with disabilities — accessible via a flat wooden bridge.

If you have room left, you can order drinks and light snacks right to your sunbed. Active vacationers can take advantage of a free 30-minute paddleboard session.

This is just one of the many activities offered here. The highlight for me was a two-hour horseback ride through the picturesque Sardinian hills, which amazed with its views.

After quiet days by the pool, there is a wonderful opportunity to explore Cagliari, the perfect city for a day trip.

This city has its own identity, filled with Catholic culture and beautiful churches. Even on a Saturday, the narrow streets were sluggish, yet filled with locals sitting in cafes and restaurants.

I can’t imagine a more relaxing vacation. Isn’t it time for me to book another massage at Conrad Chia Laguna?

Need to know

ACCESSIBILITY: Flights from London Stansted to Cagliari start at £43 round trip with Ryanair.

Accommodation: Rooms at Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia start from £257 per night for two with breakfast.