Situated on pretty Porto Frailis bay, the three-and-a-half-pearl La Bitta is an elegant, traditionally designed hotel in the town of Arbatax. The 63 rooms are done in classic Sardinian style, with majolica tiles, minibars, and flat-screen TVs, but expect small shower stalls in most. While most guests spend their days on the beach, a lovely infinity pool and spa offering a range of treatments -- some outdoors overlooking the sea -- provide additional relaxation options. The two restaurants serve well-regarded Sardinian cuisine, and half-board rates are available. Note that some rooms lack furnished terraces and there's no gym here. Families looking for more activity may prefer the Hotel Club Saraceno, which has kid-friendly entertainment and additional facilities.

The upper-middle-range Hotel Club Saraceno is located in a quiet area of Sardinia, near a village and right on a sandy private beach. Both the hotel and the area offer quite a bit for nature-lovers, thanks to free group sailing, tennis, and canoeing lessons, plus more beaches and archaeological sites within a short driving distance. The 139 simple rooms are decorated in typical Sardinian style and have flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and outdoor spaces. The all-inclusive packages are popular, but there are a few random charges -- Wi-Fi, tennis racquets, beach towels -- that pop up. The food is generally good quality. Overall, the hotel is a good choice for large groups and families, offering ample activities and programming available for kids. Couples wanting something more romantic might prefer the La Villa del Rey, which is far more sophisticated.