On a recent visit, our inspector was pleased to find that Don Diego remains in a little world of its own, and still deserves its place in the guide because of its seaside charm. It stands in a secluded position south of Olbia on the Costa Dorata: a quiet stretch of coastline that provides guests with many coves and beaches to explore. But despite its seclusion, Don Diego is only a twenty-minute taxi ride from Olbia airport, making it ideal for a long-weekend away.
 
The hotel is of typically Sardinian design, consisting of airy, quaint, and yet quite stylish single-storey cottages scattered amongst the macchia and pine trees. Double bedrooms are located futher away from the main building than the junior suites, which enjoy sea views (and the occasional glimpse of a fellow guest en route to a neighbouring cottage). From the lovely, curving sea-water swimming pool there are views across to the nearby islands of Molara and Tavolara. But for truly uninterrupted views make the short stroll down to the hotel's small private beach.

English visitors will find the food, and the rooms, very expensive, especially when the exchange rate doesn't favour the pound. In fact, as noted elsewhere, prices on this east coast of Sardinia are among the most eye-watering in Europe.