Cala Goloritzé is a stunning beach located on the east coast of Sardinia, within the Gulf of Orosei. This picturesque destination is celebrated for its pristine natural beauty and unique geological features.
Overview of Cala Goloritzé
- Location: Cala Goloritzé is situated in the Gulf of Orosei, along Sardinia’s eastern coastline. This secluded beach lies at the base of a rugged, mountainous terrain, accessible only by foot or by sea.
- Highlights: The beach is renowned for its incredibly clear turquoise waters, which are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The shore is composed of white pebbles, creating a striking contrast with the vibrant blue sea.
- Access: Cala Goloritzé can be reached in two primary ways:
- By Boat
- By Hiking
Visiting Cala Goloritzé provides a unique opportunity to experience one of Sardinia’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Beach Experience
Beach Description
Characteristics:
- White Pebbles: Cala Goloritzé features a shoreline composed of small, white pebbles rather than sand. These pebbles add to the beach’s unique charm and help keep the waters exceptionally clear.
- Crystal-Clear Water: The water at Cala Goloritzé is renowned for its incredible clarity, with shades of turquoise and blue that create a mesmerizing sight. This makes it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Natural Arch: One of the beach’s most distinctive features is its natural limestone arch, which adds to the dramatic landscape and provides a stunning backdrop for photographs.
Activities:
- Swimming: The calm and clear waters are perfect for a refreshing swim. The visibility underwater is excellent, making it a delightful experience.
- Snorkeling: Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world. The area around the natural arch and the rocky formations nearby are particularly good spots to see marine life.
- Sunbathing: Relax on the pebbled beach and enjoy the serene environment. Due to its popularity, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Facilities and Amenities
Absence of Facilities:
- No Restaurants: There are no dining facilities on or near the beach, so visitors need to bring their own food.
- No Bathrooms: There are no restroom facilities available at Cala Goloritzé, so plan accordingly before starting your hike.
- No Shade Structures: The beach lacks natural shade, and there are no provided shade structures. This makes sun protection crucial.
Recommendations:
- Bring Your Own Food and Water: Pack enough food and water to last the duration of your stay. It’s recommended to bring at least 2 liters of water per person.
- Sun Protection: Since there is no natural shade, bring sunblock, a hat, and possibly a beach umbrella or a small tent to protect yourself from the sun.
- Other Essentials: Ensure you have all necessary supplies before starting the hike, including a first aid kit and any personal items you might need for a comfortable beach day.
Getting There
Travel Options
By Car
Directions from Main Sardinian Cities:
- From Cagliari:
- Take SS131 north towards Nuoro.
- Merge onto SS389 and continue to Lanusei.
- Follow signs to Baunei and then to Su Porteddu on the Golgo plateau.
- From Olbia:
- Take SS131 south towards Nuoro.
- Continue on SS125 towards Dorgali.
- Head south towards Baunei, then follow signs to Su Porteddu.
- From Alghero:
- Take SS291 towards Sassari.
- Merge onto SS131 south towards Nuoro.
- Follow SS389 and continue towards Lanusei.
- Proceed towards Baunei and follow signs to Su Porteddu.
Parking Information at Su Porteddu:
- There is a designated parking area at Su Porteddu where hikers can leave their cars. The parking fee is generally around €6 per car. Ensure to arrive early, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure a spot.
By Boat
Departure Points:
- Santa Maria Navarrese:
- Several boat tours depart from Santa Maria Navarrese, offering scenic rides along the coastline to Cala Goloritzé. These tours typically include stops at other beautiful beaches in the Gulf of Orosei.
- Arbatax:
- Boat tours from Arbatax also provide an enjoyable and picturesque journey to Cala Goloritzé.
Costs and Schedules of Boat Tours:
- The cost for boat tours varies but typically ranges from €40 to €60 per person. Some tours may offer discounts for groups or children.
- Tours usually start in the morning around 8:00 to 9:00 AM and return in the late afternoon.
- It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the high season, to ensure availability and to check the specific schedules and prices with the tour operators.
Where to Sleep Close to Cala Goloritzé
For those planning a visit to Cala Goloritzé, there are several great accommodation options nearby that cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are some recommended places to stay:
Hotels
- Hotel Goloritzé (Baunei)
- Description: A well-rated hotel offering comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It is located close to the starting point of the hike to Cala Goloritzé.
- Facilities: Free WiFi, air conditioning, breakfast available.
- Reviews: Guests appreciate the friendly staff and convenient location.
- Hotel Plammas (Santa Maria Navarrese)
- Description: A three-star hotel located near the beach, offering comfortable rooms and great value for money.
- Facilities: Free parking, WiFi, air conditioning.
- Reviews: Guests praise its convenient location and hospitality.
Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs)
- B&B Selvaggio Blu (Baunei)
- Description: A charming B&B with excellent reviews, located in the heart of Baunei.
- Facilities: Free WiFi, breakfast included, free parking.
- Reviews: Guests highlight the welcoming host and beautiful surroundings.
- Sa Domm’e Galleria (Baunei)
- Description: This B&B offers rooms with mountain views and a balcony, perfect for a peaceful stay.
- Facilities: Free WiFi, air conditioning, breakfast included.
- Reviews: Visitors appreciate the serene location and friendly service.
Vacation Rentals
- Seaview House Cala Gonone (Cala Gonone)
- Description: Apartments with stunning sea views, located close to the beach.
- Facilities: Free WiFi, kitchen, balcony with a view.
- Reviews: Noted for the amazing views and convenient location.
- La Casetta (Santa Maria Navarrese)
- Description: A cozy cottage with modern amenities, ideal for a relaxing stay near the beach.
- Facilities: Full kitchen, free WiFi, air conditioning.
- Reviews: Highly rated for its comfort and location.
Where is Cala Goloritzé
Cala Goloritzé is located:
- In the southern part of the Gulf of Orosei, in the Ogliastra region of Sardinia, Italy
- Specifically, it is located in the municipality of Baunei, in the Province of South Sardinia
- The beach is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes walking distance from the town of Baunei
- It is situated near the town of Cala Gonone, which is the closest major town to the beach
Hiking to Cala Goloritzé
Trail Information
- Starting Point: The hike to Cala Goloritzé begins at Su Porteddu, located on the Golgo plateau.
- Distance: The trail is approximately 3.5 kilometers one way.
- Duration:
- Downhill to the beach: 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Uphill return: 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Difficulty: The hike is considered moderate, with some steep and rocky sections. The terrain can be challenging, especially during the uphill return.
Tips for Hikers
- Best Times to Hike:
- Early morning is the best time to start the hike to avoid the midday heat and to secure a good spot on the beach.
- Late afternoon hikes back can be more comfortable in terms of temperature, but ensure you have enough daylight to complete the hike safely.
- What to Bring:
- Water: Carry at least 2 liters of water per person to stay hydrated, as there are no water sources along the trail.
- Snacks: Bring energy-boosting snacks such as granola bars, nuts, and fruit. A packed lunch is also recommended if you plan to spend the day at the beach.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip to navigate the rocky sections safely.
- Clothing: Dress in layers and wear moisture-wicking clothing. A hat and sunscreen are essential to protect against the sun.
- Other Essentials: Bring a small first aid kit, a map or GPS device, and a fully charged mobile phone.
Environmental Considerations
Conservation Status
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site:
- Cala Goloritzé is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its importance and the need for conservation. This designation helps protect its unique natural environment and ensures that measures are in place to maintain its pristine condition.
Entry Fee and Restrictions:
- To manage the number of visitors and reduce environmental impact, an entry fee is charged. The fee is typically around €6 per person (bring some extra as fee can change). This fee helps fund conservation efforts and maintain the area.
- Controlled Number of Visitors: There is a limit to the number of visitors allowed each day to prevent overcrowding and reduce wear on the natural environment. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- No Overnight Stays: To preserve the site’s natural beauty and minimize human impact, overnight camping or stays on the beach are strictly prohibited. Visitors must plan to leave before dark.
Importance of Preserving the Natural Beauty and Guidelines for Visitors:
- Leave No Trace: Visitors are encouraged to follow the Leave No Trace principles, which include packing out all trash, not disturbing wildlife, and staying on designated trails to avoid damaging vegetation.
- Respect Wildlife: The area around Cala Goloritzé is home to various species of flora and fauna. It’s crucial to respect their habitat by not feeding animals, maintaining a safe distance, and not removing any natural objects like rocks or plants.
- Minimize Impact: Use biodegradable products where possible and avoid using soaps or other chemicals in or near the water. Stick to established paths to minimize soil erosion and vegetation damage.
- Fire Safety: Due to the risk of wildfires, open fires are not permitted. This includes campfires and barbecues. Always use portable stoves if you need to cook.
