Eastern Sardinia
Gulf of Orosei
With idyllic bays such as Cala Goloritzè, Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu, the Gulf of Orosei is a treasure trove for nature lovers: wild, romantic rocky beaches, some of which can only be accessed via idyllic footpaths - perfect for snorkelling, climbing, bathing and admiring.
Beach description
Gulf of Orosei - stunning rocky coves and a hikers’ paradise
With idyllic bays such as Cala Goloritzè, Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu, the Gulf of Orosei is a treasure trove for nature lovers: wild, romantic rocky beaches, some of which can only be accessed via idyllic footpaths – perfect for snorkelling, climbing, bathing and admiring. The Gulf of Orosei stretches 30 kilometres along the eastern coast of Sardinia, marked by the foothills of the Supramonte massif. Rivers flow along the imposing rock formations into the sea, like at the iconic Cala Luna. Nearly all of the beaches are only accessible by walking or climbing – and this is why the bay of Orosei is particularly popular with outdoor lovers and hikers.The dream beaches of the Gulf of Orosei in detail:
Cala Goloritzè
Probably one of the most beautiful bays in Europe, Cala Goloritzè is a wild, idyllic bay with bright white sand and crystal-clear water, framed by mighty rock formations. The landmark of the bay is the 100 metre-high Punta Caroddi, a ‘rock needle’ that towers over the beach into the blue sky. A beautiful gate-shaped rock lies at the end of the beach, which can be walked to following the well-signposted trails from the Su Golgo plateau.Good to know:
A sea protection zone prevents Cala Goloritzè from being stormed boats full of tourists.
Cala Luna
The ‘moon bay’ is a true gem: a gently sloping beach with powdery sand, amazing grottos for diving and snorkelling and fragrant oleander make Cala Luna so beautiful you’ll hardly believe it's real. A small restaurant and a bar in the hinterland make sure guests are refreshed and replenished. This beach is also only accessible via a hiking trail or excursion boat, for example from Arbatax. The hiking train follows an idyllic route alongside the Codula di Lina river, which flows into the sea at Cala Luna.Cala Mariolu
This dream beach is another that requires a little hike first, but through the most breathtaking scenery. From Cala Gonone, the trail leads through old, gnarled cork and holly oak forests, along the side of the picturesque Codula di Sisine river. Once at the bay, you’ll be blown away by the fusion of bright, fine sand and turquoise water.Su Barone
A dream, and not just for families: Stretching 7 kilometres, the sandy beach Su Barone seems endless – gently sloping into the azure water, with the mighty mountains of Gennargentu standing behind it.Cala Osalla
A little insider tip south of Marina di Orosei is Cala Osalla. The family-friendly, secluded beach is paradise for divers and snorkellers. It can be reached by car, and a little bar around 100 metres into the hinterland offers refreshments. Alternatively, Cala Osalla can also be reached on foot from Su Petrosu beach.Location and surroundings
Beaches in detail
Cala Cartoe
On SS 125 follow the signs for Dorgali. Roughly 15 kilometres behind Orosei follow the street signs for the Grotta di Ispinigoli, pass the associated hotel and the entrance of the cave. After 4 kilometres you take a right and follow the road roughly 2.7 kilometres, and then take a gentle right. After 400 metres take another right, and after 150 metres you reach your destination. The road is very narrow at times and not in very good condition. At this beautiful location, the limestone coast of the Golf of Orosei begins to the south. The small bay Cala di Cartoe is surrounded by unspoiled nature. The beach is covered with fine, golden sand interspersed with pebbles, the water is azure and slopes gently. During peak season the beach has some visitors; however, it is not overcrowded. It is clean and there are only occasional seaweed patches.
Cala Fuili
In the Cala Gonone holiday resort, you cross the Viale Bue Marino (the signposting is not very good; however, the location is easy to find in the pine forest) and follows the panoramic road. Leave the Cala Ziu Martine behind you and go up to the end of the road. You reach the beach by steps that lead along an old path that the coal miners and shepherds used to use (if you wish, you can follow this path further to the south to reach the famous beach of Cala Luna, although the path here becomes significantly more strenuous). The small bay is located in the middle of unspoilt, wild nature; its beach consists of white, medium-sized pebbles; the sea is turquoise and flat. Since many people prefer sandy beaches, Cala Fuili is scarcely crowded even in peak season. The beach is clean, and there are very few patches of seaweed. The Nuragic tower Mannu is located nearby, and guided tours are available.
Cala Luna
What is special about this famous bay on the steep coast of Golfo di Orosei is its unique position. Behind the sandy beach there is a small lagoon. Madonna, the singer, filmed a movie remake here a few years ago. The bay is only accessible by boat, which is possible starting from Orosei, La Caletta or Cala Gonone. Alternatively, you can reach the bay by various hiking trails. The easiest hike lasts roughly two hours and begins on Cala Fuili (Cala Gonone).
