Our Roots

The roots of Verde Smeraldo

The roots of Verde Smeraldo run deep in the soil of Gallura, long before the birth of Costa Smeralda. Our story began in 1957, when young Vanni Orecchioni, alongside his father, took the first steps in transforming this rugged and wild land into a green haven. Even then, Vanni demonstrated an extraordinary sensitivity to the landscape and a profound knowledge of the local flora.

In the 1960s, when Prince Karim Aga Khan IV and a group of visionaries discovered this untouched paradise in northern Sardinia, they found in Vanni Orecchioni a valuable ally. His expertise and passion were crucial in realizing a new concept of tourism development that respected and enhanced the surrounding nature.

It was under Orecchioni’s guidance that the first nursery of the Costa Smeralda Consortium was born—the precursor to Verde Smeraldo. This nursery quickly became the heart of botanical innovation in the region, where Orecchioni and other experts collaborated to develop the concept of the Mediterranean Garden, a perfect fusion of architecture and the natural environment.

As the international fame of Costa Smeralda grew, so did the demand for unique and spectacular gardens. Our nursery played a vital role in supplying the plants and expertise needed to create these green spaces, which became gathering places for the world’s elite.

Today, Verde Smeraldo continues this tradition of excellence and innovation, built on over 60 years of experience. We remain committed to sustainability and harmony with nature, carrying forward the original vision of Vanni Orecchioni and Costa Smeralda, helping to preserve and enrich the natural heritage of Gallura.

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