Dorgali – Cala Gonone

An unmissable destination on the east coast of central Sardinia, a village known for its archaeological and craft interests and incomparable natural beauty both inland and on the coast. History and archeology, tradition and craftsmanship, the enchanting sea and the wild Supramonte mountains covered with aromatic forests will take you to a magical world from ancient legends. In Dorgali you will find a natural heritage of 225 square kilometers and one of the most beautiful and largest urban areas in Sardinia. In the historic center of the city, you will walk through the characteristic streets between houses made of volcanic stone and shops, where filigree jewelry and ceramics, together with hand-woven carpets, will help you discover the artisanal mission of the village. The churches of San Lussurio, Madonna d’Itria and the parish church of Santa Caterina bear witness to the city’s deep devotion. You will step back in time in the archaeological museum, which collects findings from the Nuragic period (especially from the Nuragic village-sanctuary of Serra Òrrios) to the Punic and Roman times. A few kilometers from the city is the valley of Lanaittu, leading up to the legendary village of Tiscali, which served as a defensive fortress during Roman raids. Right outside the city, after passing through a short tunnel, the imaginary door between the mountains and the sea, the beauty of Orosei Bay will open up to you. A fascinating winding descent takes you to the village of Cala Gonone, famous for its bays, which are an attraction for nature, adventure or romantic boat trips lovers. It is situated on a steep hill that slopes down to the sea and has golden sandy beaches such as Cala Cartoe, Ziu Martine and Cala Osalla. By sea or by strenuous trekking, you can reach the Cala Luna on the border with Baunei, one of the most famous beaches of the island and one of the most magical places in the Mediterranean, characterized by fine sand and surrounded by a forest of oleanders. It is also the scene of the cult film Seized by an unusual fate – an Italian film from 1974, which was later remade with Madonna in the lead role and known under the name Swept away. First you will arrive at Codula di Luna, a chasm set in steep limestone walls, where you will enjoy the spectacle of thousand-year-old junipers, since time immemorial the guardian of the beauty of this place. From Cala Gonone, you can also take a guided excursion to the famous natural caves of Bue Marino Caves, a magnificent forest of stalactites, once home to Mediterranean seals, where there is an underground salt lake. Inside the caves, one of the most spectacular concerts that Sardinia has to offer takes place every year during the Cala Gonone Jazz Festival. Speaking of marine discoveries, we also recommend visiting the aquarium in the village of Cala Gonone.