Why go now?
Easyjet has just launched new flights to Cagliari, in the south of Sardinia. While the well-heeled have been flashing their Fendi handbags on the Costa Smeralda in the north of the island since the 1960s, head south to roam into uncharted territory and escape the fashion pack. No one will notice or care if your sandals aren't Manolos.

Where to stay
About 70km northwest of Cagliari, in the middle of a huge, deserted stretch of beach is the Hotel le Dune, below, (Via Bau 1, Ingurtosu; 00 39 070 977 130). Outside may be wild and rugged but inside exudes style and comfort. The area's extraordinary white beaches contrast with a dramatic backdrop of deserted mining towns. Rooms from €52.

Where to eat?
Ristorante dal Corsaro (viale Regina Margherita; 00 39 070 664 318) in Cagliari is well-known on the island. The atmosphere is finely tuned - think plenty of space, comfortable chairs, soft lighting, soft music, soft everything apart from the food and the service. Food is traditional and specialities include scorpion fish with cherry tomatoes, lobster salad and eel with pecorino cheese, accompanied by regional wines. Average price is £50 per head.

The big night out?
After a day of clambering sand dunes, leafing through a novel or floating in the crystal blue waters, you may be reluctant to venture from the charming walls of your villa or hotel. If you can bear it, drag yourself to a chic open-air cafe bar (Poetto beach is a good starting point), then step out in one of Cagliari's nightspots. Teatro Comunale (Via Sant' Alexinedda; 00 39 070 408 2230) is the main stage for classical music concerts and opera if that's more your taste.

Getting there?
Easyjet (0905 821 0905; www.easyjet.com) flies from London Luton to Cagliari with fares starting from £50.98 return including taxes.