Grotta del Bue Marino
It’s a scenic 40-minute hike from Cala Fuili, or a speedy boat ride from Cala Gonone, to this enchanting grotto. It was the last island refuge of the rare…
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Cala Gonone
Climbers, divers, sea kayakers, beachcombers and hikers all find their thrill in Cala Gonone. Why? Just look around you: imperious limestone peaks frame grandstand views of the Golfo di Orosei, sheer cliffs dip into the brilliant-blue sea, trails wriggle through emerald-green ravines to pearly-white beaches. It is quite magnificent. Even getting here is an adventure, with each hairpin bend bringing you ever closer to a sea that spreads out before you like a giant liquid mirror.
Gathered along a pine-shaded promenade, this seaside resort still has the low-key, family-friendly vibe of the small fishing village it once was. August aside, the beaches tend to be uncrowded and the room rates affordable. Bear in mind that the resort slumbers in winter, closing from October until Easter.
Explore Cala Gonone
- Grotta del Bue Marino
It’s a scenic 40-minute hike from Cala Fuili, or a speedy boat ride from Cala Gonone, to this enchanting grotto. It was the last island refuge of the rare…
- CCala Fuili
About 3.5km south of town (follow Viale del Bue Marino) is this captivating rocky inlet backed by a deep green valley. From here you can hike over the…
- NNuraghe Mannu
To get an eagle-eye view over the coast, follow the signs off the Cala Gonone–Dorgali road to this nuraghe. After 3km the rocky track peters out at a wild…
- SSpiaggia Sos Dorroles
About 1km south of Cala Gonone, backed by a striking yellow-orange rock wall, Spiaggia Sos Dorroles is one of the prettiest spots near town for splashing…
- CCala Cartoe
Secluded at the end of a remote back road, this lovely sweep of sand makes a pleasant day trip from Cala Gonone, 11km to the south.
- AAcquario di Cala Gonone
Check out the local marine life before taking the plunge at this shiny new aquarium, designed by architects Peter Chermayeff and Sebastiano Gaias. The 25…
- SSpiaggia Centrale
In town, the small shingle Spiaggia Centrale is good for a quick dip, though the finest beaches lie further south.
- SSpiaggia Palmasera
Just south of Cala Gonone, this narrow sandy strip is interrupted by rocky stretches (watch out for sea urchins).
Top attractions
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Cala Gonone.
See
Grotta del Bue Marino
It’s a scenic 40-minute hike from Cala Fuili, or a speedy boat ride from Cala Gonone, to this enchanting grotto. It was the last island refuge of the rare…
See
Cala Fuili
About 3.5km south of town (follow Viale del Bue Marino) is this captivating rocky inlet backed by a deep green valley. From here you can hike over the…
See
Nuraghe Mannu
To get an eagle-eye view over the coast, follow the signs off the Cala Gonone–Dorgali road to this nuraghe. After 3km the rocky track peters out at a wild…
See
Spiaggia Sos Dorroles
About 1km south of Cala Gonone, backed by a striking yellow-orange rock wall, Spiaggia Sos Dorroles is one of the prettiest spots near town for splashing…
See
Cala Cartoe
Secluded at the end of a remote back road, this lovely sweep of sand makes a pleasant day trip from Cala Gonone, 11km to the south.
See
Acquario di Cala Gonone
Check out the local marine life before taking the plunge at this shiny new aquarium, designed by architects Peter Chermayeff and Sebastiano Gaias. The 25…
See
Spiaggia Centrale
In town, the small shingle Spiaggia Centrale is good for a quick dip, though the finest beaches lie further south.
See
Spiaggia Palmasera
Just south of Cala Gonone, this narrow sandy strip is interrupted by rocky stretches (watch out for sea urchins).
Guidebooks
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