Dive Sardinia

HOTEL PITRIZZA IS INCLUDED IN OUR BOOK, DIVE IN STYLE 

First opened in 1963 and substantially refurbished in 1990, its design is in keeping with the rest of the Costa Smeralda: nature has been respected, and the grounds and architecture are in perfect harmony with the rugged landscape of Sardinia’s north-eastern coast.

Diving in Sardinia offers aquarium-like conditions with almost limitless visibility. Often described as the most exciting diving in the Mediterranean, it is both varied and suitable for all divers, from novices to the more experienced.

A major reason why the diving is so good is that this corner of Sardinia is actually a national park, La Maddelena. You’ll come across more fish life here than anywhere else in the Med; at Picchi di Punta Coticcio, for instance, there are moray, octopus, large grouper, beautiful nudibranchs, scorpionfish, lobster and schools of castagnole. There is not much big life at any of the sites, but you can find a large group of good-sized groupers to the north in the islands of Lavezzi, which seem totally unfazed by divers’ paparazzi-like behaviour.

Proteus Diving is an easy five-minute drive from Hotel Pitrizza, and a private charter will pick you up from the hotel’s beach if you request it. You generally have to look after your own gear so it’s easiest to rent theirs, but this isn’t a problem; you get excellent and personalized service from the small, friendly team. Most importantly, you will only ever dive with five in your group (some local centres lead dives that number in the twenties).