Sardinia's Blue Zone: The Italian Island Where Locals Live Beyond 100
If you are unfamiliar with the world's Blue Zones, these are specific regions where life expectancy significantly exceeds global averages, largely attributed to the diet and lifestyle practices of the inhabitants. Factors such as regular physical activity, effective stress management, and strong social connections are believed to contribute, with many residents living well beyond 100 years of age.
The Jewel of the Mediterranean
One notable Blue Zone is located in Sardinia, an Italian island often celebrated as the Jewel of the Mediterranean due to its stunning beaches and verdant landscapes. The Nuoro province, situated in the mountainous central area of the island, is renowned for its high concentration of centenarians. Historically, it was home to the world's oldest woman, who lived to 113 years. Although that record has since been broken, Sardinia remains a destination where embracing a healthy lifestyle is deeply ingrained in the culture.
To experience this firsthand, a visit to the 7Pines Resort in the northern part of the island offers an immersive way to adopt these longevity principles. This five-star establishment exudes a relaxed atmosphere, welcoming guests with a glass of prosecco upon arrival. The resort features a double-layered pool with ambient house music, while floor-to-ceiling windows in the restaurants and gym create a seamless connection with the outdoors.
Accommodations are designed to blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings, using materials like natural wood and textured stone tiles. Deluxe rooms include thoughtful extras such as complimentary flip-flops and a mini freezer stocked with ice, enhancing the overall experience.
Embracing an Active Lifestyle
Days at the resort can begin with an early morning swim in one of the pools or at the sandy beach with calm waters. Morning activities like stretch classes or Pilates are offered, and the gym, despite its transparent walls, provides breathtaking views that make workouts more enjoyable.
For further exploration, a two-hour walk around neighbouring Baja Sardinia reveals five diverse beaches, from secluded sandy coves to expansive golden shores. The crystal-clear, shallow waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, and nearby restaurants and bars offer snacks and drinks.
Additionally, the Pevero Health trail, a 20-minute drive away, features paths through aromatic scrubland with scenic viewpoints and accessible beaches. Renting a car is advisable due to the high cost of taxis in the area.
Nutrition and Culinary Delights
The breakfast buffet at 7Pines is a robust start to the day, offering fresh fruit, pastries, cooked meats, grilled vegetables, and egg dishes like Uova Frattau—a traditional Sardinian creation with bread, tomato purée, pecorino cheese, and a poached egg.
At the poolside Spazio by Franco Pepe restaurant, claims of serving the world's best pizza are backed by unique options such as the Spazio Mare, a fried pizza topped with buffalo mozzarella, red prawn, green salad, and lime. The trattoria menu includes fresh catches of the day, pasta dishes, and tiramisu, considered by many to be Italy's finest dessert.
For a more refined dining experience, Capogiro restaurant presents the Le Nostre Storie tasting menu, a theatrical and flavorful journey using herbs from the resort's kitchen garden. Dishes like lobster ravioli in crab broth are exquisitely presented, delighting the senses.
Wellness and Relaxation
The spa at 7Pines, with five treatment rooms named after local flora, includes an open-air relaxation area, sauna, steam room, ice bath, and experience showers. To ensure intimacy, only five guests are allowed at a time, so booking in advance is recommended.
A personalised body massage here is both relaxing and invigorating, easing tension while boosting energy levels. Other services include body scrubs, facials, manicures, and reflexology, all designed to promote well-being.
Social Connections and Enjoyment
Socialising and having fun are key aspects of the Blue Zone lifestyle. The resort's beachside Cone Club, with DJs and summer parties, is ideal for sunset viewing. In Baja Sardinia, Phi Club is another popular beach club during warmer months.
The swim-up bar at 7Pines attracts crowds in the late afternoons, with Bellavista sparkling wine being a favourite sundowner. For wine enthusiasts, the hotel can arrange tastings at local vineyards like Capichera, a 20-minute drive away, offering tours and samples of five wines.
Additional activities such as watersports and boat trips can be booked through the concierge, though simply lounging on the comfortable sunbeds is equally acceptable.
Practical Information
Rooms at 7Pines Resort Sardinia start from €350 per night based on double occupancy. Flights from the UK to Olbia, approximately a 30-minute drive from the resort, are available through airlines like British Airways and Ryanair.
