Tr avel report SARDINIA

The small town of Chia is nestled on the island’s southern tip, perched in the corner of a gorgeous lagoon home to flamingoes. Yes, flamingoes in Europe.

Italy may be the place for carbs and culture and city breaks, but its beaches are pretty something, too, and Sardinia boasts some of the best. Despite being popular for holidays it’s still relatively unspoiled by the throes of tourism.

The island has one of Italy’s highest life expectancies at 81 which is saying something for a country governed by the attitude of ‘life’s too short not to enjoy it.’

But if the locals live half as well as you’re treated at the stunning Chia Laguna resort, it’s not hard to see why.

The resort itself is stepped back from the bay, built tastefully into the cliffside. Run by Italian Hospitality Collection, it’s actually a group of hotels clustered around its famous Chia Natural Spa.

Families can stay in the low-key Hotel Village or Spazio Oasi, which has the children’s pool and more family-orientated restaurants.

They also run their football academy led by none other than Juventus coaches throughout the summer season, as well as a dance academy. But if you really want to experience true luxury, push the boat out onto the Mediterranean waters and book in at the Hotel Laguna or newly opened Hotel Baia.

One of the first things to greet you