FROM MONTI MOLA TO ELITE TOURIST DESTINATION

Welcome to a journey through the fascinating history of the Costa Smeralda Consortium, which has transformed its Monti di Mola past to become one of the jewels of world tourism. This magical place has undergone an epic transformation, led by a small group of visionary investors consisting of the Prince of the Ishmaelite community His Highness Karim Aga Khan, who was then the driving force behind the development, John Duncan Miller, a well-known British financier, and pioneers such as Patrick Guinness, Renè Podbielski and Giuseppe Mentasti, owner of San Pellegrino, also known as Kerry.

Thanks to the bold choices and ambitious visions of this group of enlightened patrons and entrepreneurs, the Costa Smeralda® became an unprecedented and outstanding tourist destination in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea in just a few years.

THE EXCITEMENT OF BIRTH 

In 1959, the enchantment of the sea and the strategic location of this place captured Miller’s imagination, paving the way for a series of transactions that would change the destiny of the region. It was during this period that Giuseppe Mentasti embarked on a bold journey, purchasing vast uncultivated lands, laying the groundwork for what we know today as Costa Smeralda. His pioneering spirit and determination made the region one of the most exclusive tourist destinations in the world. 

FOUNDATION & INNOVATION 

In September 1961, a group of brilliant minds came together to sign a declaration of intent that would lead to the establishment of the Costa Smeralda Consortium in March 1962, committed to creating an élite tourist destination that respected the integrity of the landscape and the surrounding environment. Among these illustrious figures were Karim Aga Khan, Patrick Guiness, Giuseppe Mentasi, Felix Bigio, J.D. Miller, Lawyer Andrè Ardoin and Renè Podbielski. This historic moment marked the beginning of an era of innovation and collaboration, setting new standards for sustainable tourism planning in Europe. Through a unique combination of traditional Sardinian architecture and contemporary design, Costa Smeralda® quickly became synonymous with sophistication and well-being. 

HARMONIOUS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

During the growth process of the consortium and the entire region, special attention was paid to environmental protection. All projects, from the large hotel to the private residence, had to be submitted to the architectural committee for approval: the structures were designed and built with a holistic approach, blending harmoniously into the surrounding landscape.
Architects Luigi Vietti, Michele Busiri Vici, Savin Couëlle and Simon Mossa were commissioned to design the first settlements under the Aga Khan’s direct supervision. 

Through this philosophy of harmonious and sustainable development, the Costa Smeralda Consortium has managed to grow positively over the years, thanks also to the expansion of connections with Olbia, becoming an elite tourist destination offering not only luxury and comfort, but also authenticity and a connection with nature and local culture.

THE 1960S

By the end of the 1960s, the coastline already included the village of Porto Cervo, the five hotels, the Stella Maris church, a large golf course under construction and the first beautiful villas, built at the most charming beaches and inlets, such as Capriccioli, Grande Pevero, Pantogia, Romazzino, Cala di Volpe.

The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, established in 1967, became in a few years one of the most renowned yacht clubs in the world, hosting a long series of important international regattas over the years.

FUTURE PROSPECTS 

As the history of the Consorzio Costa Smeralda teaches us, looking to the future is both necessary and necessary.

In Gallura, the future presents itself as an unrepeatable opportunity for investors and enthusiasts of beauty, wellness, privacy, nature, as well as services, amenities and high-level neighbourhoods. This area of Sardinia, in particular, boasts a cultural, natural and scenic heritage of inestimable value, with a history to be discovered that is still often little known.

Thanks to its established reputation and growing popularity, it offers a favourable environment for investment in tourism and real estate. With an ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development, the region is ready to host new ideas and innovative initiatives that will successfully launch the island into the global market.