Experience the Best of Sardinian Culture at Su Gologone
This unique hotel is more than just another island accommodation. Indeed, it is a destination that gives travelers a tantalizing glimpse of the color and character of this unique Italian location
If you are looking for a destination in Italy which goes beyond the usual, perhaps a trip to Sardinia would be the perfect getaway for you.
A mix of the intriguingly ancient and modern sophistication, Sardinia charms the eye and the heart in equal measure with the breathtaking beauty of its natural environment and the luxurious elegance of key locations like the Costa Smeralda and the numerous islets dotting the vicinity which feature stunning holiday homes owned by celebrities and prominent personalities.
But the best place, perhaps, where travelers can experience the beautifully nuanced arts and crafts intrinsic to Sardinian culture is an unusual boutique hotel in the town of Oliena called Su Gologone.
A Home for Tradition
Formally known as the Su Gologone Experience Hotel, this little gem of a destination allows visitors to experience different aspects of Sardinian culture from its delectable cuisine to accommodations that showcase the beauty of the region’s native fabrics, ceramics, woodwork, and jewelry.
Founded in 1967 by husband and wife team Giuseppe (fondly nicknamed Peppeddu) and Pasqua Palimodde, Su Gologone started as a restaurant featuring local specialties such as the crisp pane carasau (known elsewhere as carta da musica), homemade pasta that is more substantial than similar dishes in the Italian mainland, and exquisite local cheeses and preserves.
While many people balked at the notion of opening a restaurant in what was, at the time, an area notoriously ridden with bandits, visitors came pouring in, lured to the area by the excellent dining experience the Palimoddes offered. In time, people asked if they could stay for a few days as the restaurant was close to the famed Su Gologone mineral spring. Eight rooms were opened to guests and, by 1975, had increased to 33 – something that transformed the little restaurant into a hospitality venue in its own right.
Today, under the management of Peppeddu and Pasqua’s daughter Giovanna Palimodde, Su Gologone is a thriving establishment which upholds her parents’ emphasis on comfort and quality while championing local artists through a six-studio atelier called Le Botteghe di Su Gologone.
Where Craftsmanship and Artistry Rule
Located in what used to be the property’s stables, Le Botteghe di Su Gologone has become a mecca for those who want to bring home an authentic bit of Sardinia with them.
Here, artisans whose skills have been in practice for generations produce a variety of items, many of which are featured and used within the hotel. Brightly embroidered bed linens share shelf space with colorful clothing modeled after traditional costumes. A master soapmaker offers a selection of essential oils, fragrances, and soaps featuring locally-sourced ingredients like native myrtle and juniper, while porcelain craftsmen carefully hand-fire beautiful plates to add an exotic and whimsical touch to many dining tables all over the world.
Likewise, guests can also try their hand at traditional crafts, as some artisans hold regular classes for sewing and embroidery, painting and drawing, as well as paper craft and mosaic work.
More than half a century since it opened its doors, Su Gologone has gone beyond feeding the body with excellent food. It now offers a restful space paired with the perfect venue to uphold the rich traditions and vibrant culture of Sardinia.
Sardinian Specialty
Outdoors at Su Gologone
