A new beachfront destination arrives on the shores of the Costa Smeralda, bringing the iconic African Queen lifestyle to Cala di Volpe.
Costa Smeralda, Sardinia – June 2026 – Hotel Cala di Volpe is pleased to announce the opening of African Queen Beach Club & Restaurant, a new beachfront dining and lifestyle destination set directly on the iconic beach of Hotel Cala di Volpe in the heart of the Costa Smeralda.
Developed in partnership with the internationally acclaimed African Queen brand, the new venue will offer guests a distinctive beachside experience that combines curated design, Mediterranean gastronomy, elegant hospitality and the vibrant spirit for which African Queen has become renowned.
Known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, effortless elegance and unmistakable Riviera charm that has captivated an international clientele for decades, African Queen brings its signature lifestyle to one of the Mediterranean’s most legendary destinations for the very first time. The new beach club and restaurant concept blends timeless sophistication, conviviality and a relaxed sense of luxury.
This opening marks the meeting point between two icons of Mediterranean hospitality and lifestyle: the legendary heritage of Hotel Cala di Volpe and the distinctive energy of African Queen, long synonymous with conviviality, elegance and the art of living.
The arrival of African Queen further enriches Hotel Cala di Volpe’s collection of exceptional culinary and lifestyle experiences, reinforcing its position among the Mediterranean’s most celebrated luxury destinations.
AFRICAN QUEEN
Born on the French Riviera
Founded in 1969 in Beaulieu-sur-Mer on the French Riviera, African Queen is one of the South of France’s most iconic restaurants. Inspired by the legendary film African Queen starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn, the restaurant has become a timeless institution where generations of guests gather to celebrate Mediterranean cuisine and the Riviera art of living.
Deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the French Riviera, African Queen is known for its generous Mediterranean cuisine, warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere. Over the decades, it has built its reputation around a collection of signature dishes, exceptional ingredients and an unmistakable Riviera spirit that has attracted both locals and international visitors alike.
The concept’s distinctive identity draws inspiration from travel, adventure and the glamorous spirit of the Riviera. Warm textures, natural materials and subtle references to the iconic film create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and inviting.
Following the acquisition of the brand in 2023 by Riccardo Giraudi, Philippe Schriqui and Patrick Gioannini, African Queen have opened a new chapter while remaining faithful to the values that made it a Riviera institution. Their vision has been to preserve the soul of the restaurant while introducing a fresh energy and expanding the brand to exceptional destinations.
From Beaulieu-sur-Mer to Dubai and now the Costa Smeralda, African Queen continues to share its unique Mediterranean lifestyle with guests around the world.
At Cala di Volpe, guests will discover the signature classics that have defined African Queen for decades, including the famous Grandma’s Niçoise Salad, the iconic 1969 Truffle Pizza, the Old-Fashioned Artichoke & Truffle Salad, the Tomato Tatin, fresh local fish from the daily catch, Giant Camarones and premium grilled meats. Seasonal creations complement the menu while remaining true to the spirit and DNA of the house.
More than a restaurant, African Queen is a place where people can gather, celebrate and create lasting memories. Warm hospitality, attentive service and a vibrant atmosphere come together to create an experience that is both sophisticated and welcoming, embodying the timeless charm of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
CALA DI VOLPE, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL
The luxury lifestyle authority in the Mediterranean
Stretching out over the bay like a timeless village and seemingly sculpted by the wind, Hotel Cala di Volpe embodies glamorous elegance immersed among the colors and scents of nature and sea. Hotel Cala di Volpe, managed by Marriott International and owned by Smeralda Holding, a company indirectly controlled by the Qatar Investment Authority (“QIA”), remains a world apart, a five-star legend widely recognised as one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic luxury destinations.
A masterpiece originally conceived in the 1960s by Jacques Couëlle, the hotel has been beautifully reimagined through new rooms and suites, new spaces and restaurants, offering an elevated guest experience.
The resort’s celebrated culinary collection now welcomes African Queen Beach Club & Restaurant, further expanding its portfolio of world-class dining experiences.