About Ca’ la Somara
As soon as we saw Ca’ la Somara we fell in love with it and knew it was the perfect place for a writing retreat.
It’s an agriturismo, which means you get quality, charming accommodation (in a converted farm) with fantastic food at a ridiculously affordable price. It’s a small place - just 12 rooms in total. That’s what helps to give it such an informal, friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Ca’ la Somara is close to the Costa Smeralda, arguably the hippest destination in Sardinia, so we’re close enough to be able to get to the beach but far enough away that you can feel yourself relaxing into the peace of the Sardinian countryside.
Ca’ La Somara is set in betwitching surroundings. Craggy, gnarled olive trees surround the swimming pool and dot the land while granite rocks tower up above.
Maybe they’ll give you a sense of security, the farm nestled down under the protection of the rocks. Or maybe they’ll give you a sense of inspiration: stretching up proudly into the cloudless blue sky.
While it’s tempting to do nothing much, the town of San Pantaleo is a pleasant 30-minute walk from Ca’ la Somara. You can pop up there for any necessities you might need during the week - which might include a frothy cappuccino, an ice-cold beer, Italian pizza, people-watching in the granite piazza as well more everyday essentials like banks, pharmacies or a post office.
We also hope to be able to visit the market at San Pantaleo - time, weather and the rest of the programme permitting.
Writing at Ca’ la Somara
We’ll be using the large, airy sitting room for some writing activities and group conversations. But there are plenty of other writing spaces in the grounds of Ca’ la Somara too, where you can work in groups or on your own. We’ll also be dining outside each night on a long trestle table under a vine: perfect for conversations, feedback, and sharing some of your words with some good food, good company and glass of wine or two
Relaxing at Ca’ la Somara
Ca’ La Somara has been designed for some truly luxurious me-time – a chance to indulge in some sensuous massage treatments in the purpose-built relaxation zone (think steam room, sauna, massage, meditation room, relaxation space and a tea room), laze by the pool surrounded by gnarled olive trees and dine under the starlit sky.
There’s plenty of room in the grounds to find your own space, and routes away from the farm where you can walk peacefully and safely (and away from busy roads). San Panteleo is a half-hour walk away along a safe, minor road.
Food and Drink at Ca’ la Somara
Most meals are eaten outside on the long wooden table under the vines. A huge buffet breakfast is included in the price, as well as a five-course meal each evening. We don’t expect you’ll need too much else during the day time. We’ll organise some light snacks during the day (fruit, salads, pasta) and you can also make use of guest kitchens to prepare whatever you want.
Laura, the Italian owner, is used to catering for vegetarians so you’ll never feel like you’re getting a raw deal. In fact, even hardcore meat-eaters are known to opt for one of the delicious vegetarian meals at least once during the week. As for alcohol, local wine flows freely during dinner but you can also buy drinks from the small bar.
Ca’ la Somara, Near the Costa Smerelda
It’s in the north east of the island of Sardinia near Costa Smerelda.
More About Ca’ la Somara
Check out the Ca’la Somara website
Testimonials and reviews:
From Alistair Sawdays
Trip advisor reviews
Photos from Ca’ la Somara:
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