Hotel El Faro,  Sardinia  Italy

★   ★   ★    ★

 

The most striking aspect of this property is the architecture, not least the incorporation of the lighthouse into the design. The sundecks and pool are a popular focal point although a car would be needed for exploring the surrounding areas including the national park on the peninsular opposite and the old town of Alghero, a 20 minute drive away. It does provide a popular base for all holidaymakers and lift access makes all facilities readily available, although there are a number of steps throughout the grounds.

Exterior

A double-archway leading off from the land-side of the large parking area marks the entrance to the property which leads on to a pathway passing the 2-storey white-fronted bougainvillea-draped garden-view rooms and to 11 broad steps up to the double-sliding door entrance. Most notably, the existing lighthouse has been incorporated in to the structure of the building and provides an attractive and complimenting facade.

Property type: Hotel

Storeys: 4

Built Year: 1950

Interior

The foyer is fronted by a long reception counter beyond which is a lounge area with white walls and deep soft seating benefitting from the natural light from the large sea-facing panoramic windows to the end. Lifts serve all floors including the lower ground where there is a large bar area, with both indoor and outdoor seating, a large sea-facing indoor restaurant where lunch and dinner is served and a separate breakfast room. There is also a TV lounge and meeting room.

Rooms: 88

Grounds

Built in the late 1950s, the architect not only incorprated the lighthouse but designed the front of the property to resemble the bow of a ship with a deck area leading from the restaurant and bar overlooking a lower floor that holds a larger mainly circular swimming pool surrounded by ample sunloungers and parasols and ship-like balustrade railings. This in turn overlooks the sea to which a series of steps lead down to a small sandy area where further beach furnishings are provided. The property is spread over 4-storeys to the front.

Location

Area Type: Overlooking the Baia di Ninfe, 10 km north of the resort, to which a shuttle service operates, at the end of the road to Porto Conte with sweeping views across the bay towards the Mount Timadore and the surrounding national park. Property adjacent to a large parking area and an Aradonese fort-like tower. Overlooks small beach reached by steps down low rock face. Transfer time from Alghero Airport 20 minutes.

Nearest beach: On beach (Faro)

Map Ref: 3