escapes
GABBIANO AZZURRO Break Free of Frozen Chains By Kenza Salahdine
T
he fresh, cool flows of air are filled with sounds of tweeting birds. The sunrays pierce the crystally blue, cloudless sky... This is what the wonderful season of spring feels like in the aftermath of roaring blizzards that have left slush and dirt on your newly-acquired leather shoes. Unfortunately, we cannot change the weather or buy you a new pair of shoes, but we know just the right place to find “real” spring. Located in one of the most picturesque places in northeast Sardinia, the scenic gulf town of Golfo Aranci, Hotel Gabbiano Azzurro is the ultimate savior for your spring expectations. The hotel boasts 80 rooms and suites, which overlook glorious Mediterranean landscapes, and provides exceptional service along with wonderful amenities. Up to relaxing under the Italian sun? Offering a direct access to a white sandy beach, Gabbiano Azzurro Hotel & Suites is located on the seafront of Sardinia’s famous Emerald Coast. Leisurely stroll along the cozy fisherman village, a 5-minute walk from the hotel property offering an entertaining shopping experience called La Dolce Vita Golfo Aranci. The hotel is a 20-minute drive from Olbia Airport and within a stone’s throw of the most stunning beaches of the Golfo Aranci that can be reached in just a few minutes. Keep in mind, Sardinia is an island that strikes its visitors with a wild and pure nature. Explore Sardinia by visiting the Maddalena National Park that encompasses Maddalena Archipelago and its “seven sister,” with its lively seabeds that provide an incredible scuba-diving experience. Fortunately, you can
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easily access the BonAriA sailing yacht excursion to the famous Archipelago of La Maddalena with a visit of the Maddalena Village straight from the hotel. We also recommend you visit Archeologic Park of Arzachena, where you can follow the steps of the ancient past of Sardinia’s Nuraghe, the main type of ancient megalithic edifice found on the island, and Tombs of the Giants, a gallery grave built during the Bronze Age by the ancient Nuragic civilization. And, finally, don’t miss out on wine tasting at one of the local wineries. Guests are welcome to choose from the wide range of rooms with amazing views of the Mediterranean and Tavolara Island that seems like a massive limestone is springing out of the sea. Boasting furnished balconies or patios, rooms and suites are as charming and come with 4-star superior amenities such as flat-screen TVs with international satellite channels, WIFI access, and minibars. The interior design may look too old-fashioned, but, remember, Sardinia is a gemstone of Italian traditions. Radiating a romantic vibe, the property is ideal for couples. Gabbiano Azzurro Hotel & Suites offers not one, but two 24/7 pools with attached whirlpools and poolside bar service, allowing guests to enjoy a glass of excellent wine, such as Vermentino di Gallura or Cannonau, without leaving the pleasant water. Don’t forget to rent beach loungers and umbrellas to enjoy the warm weather without having to burn to a crisp.
Flavorful cuisine will surely satisfy the most demanding palates with fresh natural ingredients and delicious recipes, brought to life with local products. Mediterranean and Sardinian cuisine traditions are mixed together by Chef Daniele Sechi to create a signature menu for the on-property eatery, Blù Restaurant. The majestic, fairy location, only three meters above the Sardinian sea, is a prologue to an unforgettable symphony of the Italian gourmet experience. The menu always changes, but one indispensable dish is always available for customers. You cannot leave the island without tasting La Fregula Nera, a unique Sardinian pasta plate at Blù Restaurant. Managed also by Chef Daniele Sechi, the White Restaurant offers daily a la carte with a focus on well-balanced cuisine of Italian, mediterranean and vegetarian traditions, especially Sardinian specialties. We recommend you book tables in advance to overlook the 180 degrees of stunning panoramic views from the restaurant’s large windows. With its tremendous cuisine, ancient historical sights, and almost scenic views, Sardinia is a must visit, especially in spring when the the island pampers travelers with warm temperatures and caressing rays of the sun. Embrace the season of new beginnings without heavy coats and wool scarfs but with Gabbiano Azzurro Hotel & Suites, a blooming opportunity in the firmament of the New York City brumal fairytale. hotelgabbianoazzurro.com
Sardinian food is as historical as the island itself.