Mediterranean masterpiece with private beach the ultimate luxury escape

If you find solace in the embrace of pristine waters, it’s hard to resist the allure of a property right on the waterfront. Sure, views of the ocean or a neighbouring waterway can be indulgent, while residing across the road from the ocean is convenient.

But absolute waterfront ensures nothing gets between you and stepping into those crystal clear waters (the French call such a location “pieds dans l’eau”, which directly translates as “feet in the water”). And the epitome of extravagance? Your own private beach.

Travel to the north-eastern tip of the Italian island of Sardinia where you’ll find Porto Rafael, a very private coastal village along the picturesque Costa Smeralda. Porto Rafael is a sophisticated enclave controlled by guards, where nature intertwines seamlessly with the built environment, and the community feels more like a large family.

Hidden amongst it is The Ulivi Estate, a luxury Mediterranean masterpiece with 10 bedrooms and nine bathrooms, currently listed for €14 million ($23.181 million).

Set over three hectares of stunning, landscaped grounds, the estate is one of the largest in the area, featuring two independent villas, and one of those rare “pieds dans l’eau” positions, with its own private beach.

The villa’s exteriors are the quintessential Italian snapshot: chic white facades, all sleek curves and arches, draped in bright purple bougainvillaea, topped with terracotta roof tiles, with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean as a backdrop.

Covering a generous 480 square metres across two levels, the main villa boasts six bedrooms and five full bathrooms, with open-plan living spaces framing spectacular sea views, inviting the outdoors in.

From the main bedroom suite, step straight out to a terrace surrounded by striking granite rock formations and native flora, while the second floor’s primary suite opens to a large roof deck where you can gaze out to the sailboats below.

The guest villa, completed in 2008, mirrors the main home in colour and shape but sits privately, with four bedrooms, each with an en suite, and several pergolas with ocean views.

And there are multiple outdoor spaces for relaxing or entertaining, including a charming grotto adorned with a fireplace and pizza oven sheltered by a pergola wrapped in lush grapevines.

“The property was built in harmony with its Mediterranean surroundings and boasts a secluded and concealed private setting overlooking the beautiful Islands of La Maddalena, Santo Stefano, Spargi and Budelli. The beautiful, impressive grounds lead down to a private sandy beach shaded by olive and oleander groves,” says selling agent Daniela Bracco.

The property’s size and direct sea access make it unique to the area, as do its stunning grounds: “a natural amphitheatre of gardens bursting with colour, expansive lawns, pristine pink sand beaches, and natural sculptures of granite rock formations.”

And the property’s history is just as charming as the home itself. It was designed by noted Italian architect Michele Busiri Vici.

“The current owner specifically sought out the architect for the realisation of her villa. Indeed, it was he who advised her to buy one of the few rare plots that had a beach at the bottom. It seems that the architect sat on the land a whole day visualising a house that deserved to be seen next to those magnificent rocks,” says Bracco.

“The large house was built first. Busiri Vici designed a heart into every door handle, as a tribute to his friendship with the owner.”

To this day, on the chimney beam in the winter salon of the main residence, you can find “1969” written in pencil by Busiri Vici, marking the date the home was completed.

From the estate, it’s only a short drive to the local sailing club, or the vibrant piazzetta, with outdoor cafes, refined seaside restaurants and luxury boutiques. But the villa itself is a hidden sanctuary, and a place to escape to.

“The Ulivi Estate is a retreat of peace and serenity designed to accommodate families and their guests in total privacy and tranquillity and utmost security. It’s perfect for buyers looking for nature, wellness, healthy living, and a genuine lifestyle,” says Bracco.

“It is ideal for families looking for this kind of lifestyle, a safe destination for their children, a small community offering the possibility of living in a place that makes you really feel ‘at home’. Security is a very important feature of this villa and of Porto Rafael in general. It is not a place for those looking for jet set, boutiques, fashionable restaurants, and nightlife but for a most refined clientele looking for something unique, authentic and different in Sardinia.”