Hotel Cala di Volpe, Costa Smeralda

The low-slung terracotta rooflines and weathered wooden beams were designed to look like a Sardinian fishing village, which is an ambitious premise for one of the Costa Smeralda's grandest luxury resorts. It works, somehow. Private coves, a waterfront pool, and suites with hand-painted furniture and sea views keep things from feeling too theme-park about it. Watersports and yacht excursions are on hand for guests who find lying still professionally difficult.