El Faro Hotel

The privacy of the location and beautiful setting -- hidden away on a rocky peninsula overlooking the Bay of Nymphs --  make this Sardinian hotel primarily popular with couples. Stone terraces have gazebos and loungers that feel secluded from view of other guests, adding to the romantic vibe. The well-regarded architect who designed the hotel in the 1950s had an ocean liner theme in mind, which is reflected in the "stern" at the center of the property that has a large circular swimming pool overlooking the sea. The reception area has comfortable gray-and-white-striped modern couches mixed with classic furniture, potted plants (including cacti), and artwork such as nude sculptures and bronze-lighting fixtures. The restaurant has a bit old-fashioned yet pleasant furnishings in a neutral-tone, plus panoramic windows and billowy drapery covering the ceiling. Rooms and amenities aren't quite exceptional, but the widespread stunning sea views are the drawcard.

El Faro Hotel is located in the natural park of Porto Conte and the marine reserve of Capo Caccia. There are no restaurants within walking distance, but it's a quick three-minute drive to the village of Maristella, where there are a market and a few bars. The historic town of Alghero is a 20-minute drive away; a bus stops directly in front of the hotel that will take guests to the town, but considering that buses don't run frequently, renting a car is the best option. The Alghero-Fertilia Airport is a 16-minute drive away. There are plenty of sites nearby for nature lovers to explore: Capo Caccia's vertical cliffs are a 19-minute drive away and Diving Porte Conte (offering boat tours, snorkeling, and other water activities) is only a nine-minute walk from the hotel.

The 85 rooms at the El Faro Hotel are attractive and simply furnished, with no two rooms looking exactly the same. The design consists of marble or wood floors, wooden or wrought-iron furnishings, and colorful accents -- such as bright red or turquoise -- in the walls or seating. Standard Rooms have more classical decor, while Deluxe Rooms that were renovated in 2014 have a more modern, minimalist vibe with hip touches such as large green ceramic apples on top of desks. Every room has a shaded terrace or furnished balcony, most with stunning views of the bay; for some of the rooms, these furnishings include sun loungers in addition to a table and chairs. Each room also comes with mosquito netting, a phone, flat-screen TV, minibar, and safe. Wi-Fi is also free. Bathrooms have marble or colorful mosaic tile, and either stall showers, bathtubs, or both. Hairdryers and free toiletries are also provided. 

Aside from a kiddy pool and babysitting services (for a fee), there are no kid-centric facilities, but there are plenty to keep adults occupied. While not an actual beach, the hotel has a waterfront deck with a handful of loungers and steps that lead into the water. The water is suitable both for swimming and snorkeling. The main pool has gorgeous sea views and is surrounded by loungers and umbrellas. A spa offers treatments such as a Dead Sea salt bath, Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, aromatherapy showers, and beauty treatments. The on-site gym has just a handful of equipment but it also has excellent views of the gardens and sea. Additionally, equipment rentals of canoes, dinghy boats, and mountain bikes are available. The Baia Della restaurant has a menu of traditional Sardinian food and offers indoor seating and an outdoor terrace overlooking the bay. The Grill Bar in the pool area offers snacks and more casual meals. All rates include a free hot and cold buffet breakfast. A meeting and event space is available, as are wedding services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Small pets are allowed.