Cala Gonone is unquestionably one of the greatest places to stay when on vacation in Sardinia because of its beautiful beaches and a wide variety of daily activities available. This article will tell you all there is to see and do in Cala Gonone as well as provide helpful planning tips for your vacation to Sardinia's "athletic" capital.

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- About Cala Gonone
- Where is Cala Gonone?
- Map of Cala Gonone
- How to Get to Cala Gonone
- Getting around in Cala Gonone
- 🇮🇹 All You Need for Italy 🇮🇹
- Where to Stay in Cala Gonone
- Cala Gonone B&B
- Cala Gonone Agriturismo
- Cala Gonone Weather
- Cala Gonone Holidays
- Things to Do in Cala Gonone
- The Beaches of Cala Gonone
- Where to Eat in Cala Gonone
- Is Cala Gonone Worth Visiting?
- FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions About Cala Gonone)
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About Cala Gonone
If Sardinia's beaches, blue waters, and breathtaking scenery are what drew you in, you really have to go to Cala Gonone. This 1600-person little town is a part of the Nuoro province's municipality of Dorgali.
The beaches and coves of Cala Gonone are well-known. These are isolated, rocky coves that are mostly only accessible by boat. It does, however, provide a breathtaking vista and pristine water for snorkeling or diving. In addition, Cala Gonone has a lot of places for climbing too.
Where is Cala Gonone?
Cala Gonone is a seaside town and civil parish in the municipality of Dorgali, located in the Province of Nuoro, in the region of Sardinia, Italy. It's situated in the Bay of Orosei on the eastern coast of Sardinia and is known for its natural beauty, including beaches like the Spiaggia Centrale and Cala Luna (which you'll read about below).
Map of Cala Gonone
Cala Gonone should be on your itinerary if you visit Sardinia. Between the sea and the untamed Supramonte mountains you'll find this little settlement and vast natural legacy spanning over 225 km² will surround you! While the major reason visitors come to Cala Gonone is to see the well-known Cala and spend the day exploring the many beaches and coves along the coast, the ancient sites of Cala Gonone are also noteworthy.
How to Get to Cala Gonone
Cala Gonone and Dorgali are readily accessible from the main Sardinian towns by using state route 131, which branches off at Abbasanta/Nuoro and ends at Lula/Dorgali. The SS 125, often known as Orientale Sarda since it connects all the towns along Sardinia's eastern coast, links the town to Cagliari and Olbia. The latter is more arduous and lengthy, but it offers amazing sweeping vistas.
I left Cagliari, traveling over the SS 131 and then on the SS 131dcn in the direction of Nuoro. Seeing the Supramonte in the distance was my favorite part of the trip. With its striking gray hue of limestone that contrasts with the lush greenery, it nearly has the appearance of papier-mâché.
Getting around in Cala Gonone
Driving is the most efficient method to reach Cala Gonone. If you drive your vehicle to the port of Olbia, you must go toward Dorgali. From there, take a winding route to Cala Gonone, which should take around 1-2 hours to reach.
You can hire a car in Olbia if you are traveling to Sardinia without your own vehicle. You can compare rental prices and choose your preferred option on RentalCars. We highly advise you make your vehicle reservations well in advance if you are going during peak season.
As an alternative, you could ride the bus. You might also think about joining a tour; there are many to choose from. You can start checking tour options with this link.
Private buses also travel the Olbia airport-Cala Gonone routes; however, note that the services are not available towards the end of September. When traveling by camper, keep in mind that it's forbidden to stay outside of designated campgrounds and rest places, therefore exercise caution.
Regarding campers
Remember that all wheels must be beyond the white lines while parking along the road, even if you are only stopping. Failure to do so may result in a fine. Moreover, "no camping" implies that nothing—not even chairs, tables, awnings, or wedges—should be placed outside the camper to give the impression that you are.
There are two campsites in Cala Gonone. If you are just traveling through and not stopping overnight, but still need a rest break, you may do so at Camping Palmasera, the only one in Sardinia that provides this service, that was €10 at the time of publishing this article.
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Where to Stay in Cala Gonone
Cala Gonone is an excellent starting point for a trip, full vacation, or a significant portion of one because of the magnificent beaches and plethora of daily activities available. The more energetic or athletic people in this group can occupy themselves with something new every day for weeks, while the more laid-back ones, like myself, can explore the area's coves on one of the numerous boats available for rent or by sailing about the beaches.
Although Cala Gonone is a modest tourist hub, there are plenty of places to stay; nonetheless, because of its size, I advise making reservations well in advance. Here is my recommended list of lodging options, including apartments:
The Hotel Brancamaria: I checked out Hotel Brancamaria which has bright rooms, expansive bathrooms, and a pool that shouts family fun with boat cruises too.
Check out Hotel Caramare, Hotel L'Oasi, and Hotel Pranos Turismo Rurale Cala Gonone: We checked out the trio, which is ideal for families and couples, with great breakfasts and vistas that would make you want to stay forever.
Hotel Villa Gustui Maris: Nestled at the foot of Mount Irveri entices with views of the Gulf of Orosei, a relaxing pool, and a veranda restaurant a stone's throw from Cala Gonone.
Costa Dorada, a waterfront beauty only a hop from the beach, offers the Sardinian sun with a Spanish touch in rooms outfitted with beach gear, WiFi, and a hot tub tucked in a gorgeous garden.
Hotel San Francisco: Family-run and just steps from the beach, Hotel San Francisco treats you like one of their own, with small rooms with marble accents and a restaurant focused on fresh seafood and delicious pizzas.
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Cala Gonone B&B
There are many wonderful bed & breakfast alternatives in Cala Gonone to select from:
B&B Littu Cala Gonone: Popular for horseback riding and trekking, this B&B is situated near Cala Luna Beach and offers vehicle rental services.
B&B AcquaDolce Cala Gonone: Located between Cala Fuili and Cala Luna beaches, which are popular for horseback riding and diving.
Affittacamere Goloritzè Cala Gonone offers basic, air-conditioned rooms with private entrances, 1 km from local sandy beaches.
The Cala Gonone Fisherman's House has air-conditioned accommodations with sea or mountain views, some with patios or balconies.
Affittacamere Casa del Sole Cala Gonone: Known for its good location and cleanliness, this hotel offers rooms with private bathrooms and patios.
Dolce Vita Cala Gonone Guest House: Overlooks the sea and offers apartments with private entrances and contemporary conveniences.
B&B Sa Mamma e Sole Cala Gonone is a pet-friendly bed and breakfast with a garden between Spiaggia Palmasera and Spiaggia Centrale.
Harbor Rooms - Cala Gonone: Offers air-conditioned rooms with minibars and safety deposit boxes, as well as patios in select cases.
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Cala Gonone Agriturismo
Agriturismo Su Tiresi is a family-run establishment in the Sardinian countryside that specializes in organic food and wine production. It has a classic restaurant and garden-access accommodations.
Agriturismo Paulesa: An animal-filled typical Sardinian farmhouse that serves organic breakfasts, hikes, horseback riding, and dining options in addition to a sun deck and café.
Ideal for nature enthusiasts, Agriturismo S'Ozzastru provides a peaceful rural experience complete with a pool and many lodging choices.
Nestled in the stunning Gulf of Orosei, Agriturismo Nuraghe Mannu is a charming property with a restaurant and a range of amenities that is close to the beaches of Cala Gonone.
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Cala Gonone Weather
We're talking genuine Mediterranean weather at Cala Gonone, Sardinia. Summers? The weather is hot and dry, just right for beach days and outdoor excursions, with temperatures in the 30s Celsius (90s Fahrenheit). Winter? It cools down but remains above a comfortable 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit), making it ideal for some off-season trekking and exploration. Sunshine is plentiful all year, however rain may fall when temperatures drop. Travelers should always check the weather forecast before packing their suitcases.
Cala Gonone Holidays
Sardinia's Cala Gonone is well known for its festivals and rituals that highlight its distinct cultural history. Important holidays consist of:
Celebrated on January 16, St. Anthony's Fire is a traditional celebration that includes the festival sweet delicacy 'Su Pistiddu', open wine cellars for sampling the first wine of the season, and a cleansing fire utilizing aromatic local rosemary.
Dorgali Carnival: Well-known for its customary horse racing held along Corso Umberto in the town center.
Ferragosto Dorgalese: An August celebration of civic and religious activities that includes a horse parade showing traditional attire, jewels, and colors that is not to be missed.
Singing and dancing in the plaza during the first week of September is the Festival of St. Cornelius and Cyprian.
Fish Festival: Celebrated in the piazza of the port of Cala Gonone in June, this culinary festival highlights goods from the Gulf of Orosei.
Things to Do in Cala Gonone
Cala Gonone is a little island with a lot to offer. Its position on the Gulf of Orosei, adjacent to some of Sardinia's most stunning coves and beaches, makes it a little privileged community where you can never get bored, unless you want to (but that's another story). After spending some time in the neighborhood, I've compiled a list of the finest things to do and see in Cala Gonone.
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Il Villaggio Nuragico Tiscali
Given that excavations just started in 1999, very little is known about the Nuragic hamlet of Tiscali. The archaeological site conserves the remnants of ancient structures and huts. It may be inferred that the town was made up of shepherds and had around sixty dwellings based on discoveries made during the Nuragic period digs.
The town is reached via a gap in the rock and is situated within limestone walls, which gives it a distinctive and beautiful appearance. By taking route 411, which skirts the Lanaittu river, and then continuing on path 481, which goes to Tiscali, you will arrive to the settlement. Alternatively, you might choose the 410 path, which is said to be the most challenging but also the most picturesque.
Though the trails are well marked, don't forget to pack a map, plenty of water, and some food. If you want to go alone, take caution not to stray off the main path since you run the danger of being lost and the internet isn't particularly reliable in such areas.
Boat Tour or Dinghy Rental in the Gulf of Orosei
The majority of visitors choose to go to Cala Gonone primarily for this reason. Actually, the majority of its magnificent coves are only accessible by boat, so if you can only do one activity, taking a boat or dinghy trip should be on your list.
The beaches at Cala Gonone can be seen in three different ways:
- Inexpensive ferries that carry hundreds of passengers aboard large vessels.
- Small boat rental (which doesn't require you to have a license to operate) Ideal for seeing every beach and bay in the Gulf of Orosei, a boat rental may accommodate up to 12 persons.
- Go on a boat tour.
General Prices
The cost of my boat trips varied based on the beaches and coves I visited. I paid (may vary) from €15–20 to €35 per person. To view every cove in the Gulf of Orosei, I suggest going with a guided tour. Depending on the package you choose, the trips can often include up to three stops—two beaches and a visit to the Blue Marino cave, or three beaches.
You will have the greatest navigational freedom if you choose to rent your own inflatable boat, either with or without a "captain". You can rent the boat for an entire day, which will ensure that you see all the most picturesque coves. This is the option that'd I suggest.
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Climbing in Cala Fuili
When you go to Cala Gonone, you'll understand why climbers like to climb the rocks here. You'll definitely see a lot of groups of hikers and daring climbers as you travel around this countryside.
Grotta del Bue Marino
The Grotta del Bue Marino, the longest cave passage in Europe, is one of Cala Gonone's top attractions. In actuality, the karst system stretches more than 70 kilometers inland.
After paying the fee, you can wander down the southern branch of the caverns for around an hour while being escorted by guides who can provide you with more information about the geology and history of the area. The walk is surrounded by distinctive stalactites and stalagmites.
When you visit, you will go to:
- The Candelabra chamber, with its limestone formations resembling chandeliers
- The Mirror Room, where the lakes mirror the alabaster walls
- The Organ Room, with its walls resembling pipes
- The beach room with the freshwater river running through it.
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Nuragic Complex of Nuraghe Mannu and Nuragheddu
Take time to see the Nuragic Complex of Nuraghe Mannu, which is 200 meters above sea level and descends to the caverns of Bue Marino and Cala Luna in Cala Fuili.
The archeological site is accessible from Cala Fuili by a trail or by car, where you must park around 800 meters away from the site and then go on foot to access it.
The Tomb of the Giants Ena and Thomes and the town of Tiscali are really highly recommended for those who have a strong interest in Nuragic history.
Diving in the Gulf of Orosei
Dives for professionals and novices are available for you to choose from.
Your experience essentially determines where you will be able to dive. Scuba divers with more experience, however, may get close to two ships from the Second World War: the Italian commerce ship Nasello and the German vessel KT12.
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Cala Gonone Aquarium
The aquarium is worth visiting especially if you are traveling with children. It is located in a contemporary building overlooking the sea and takes about 1 hour to visit entirely. In its tanks you can see both river and sea fish, including turtles, clownfish and sharks.
Kayak and SUP among the coves of Cala Gonone
Experts and novices alike can enjoy the magnificent Gulf of Orisei by kayaking. Naturally, the path will be determined by your skills since some routes may be more difficult than others if the wind were to pick up.
You can paddle north of Cala Gonone towards Osalla e Cartoe, a beautiful stretch of coast that is not often visited, especially by boats, which prefer the southern stretch, which ensures you more peace and, most importantly, less crowds. You can also reach the sea ox caves or the beach Ziu Santoru.
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Mountainbike in the Hills and Mountains
The mountain bike routes, or electric bike routes for those who choose, will test your riding skills. If you'd like, you can also follow the courses on your own, and there are options for every challenge.
These are the most popular options:
The 32-kilometer trip to Cala Cartoe is rather difficult and requires stops at the Littu Pass, Cala Cartoe, San Giovanni's hot springs, Ispinigoli quarries, and Dorgali.
Ghivine Forest: This strenuous 30-kilometer journey has stops at Sutaterra, Ghivine Forest, and Nuraghe Mannu.
Gorropu Canyon: This 30-kilometer journey is equally difficult and should only be attempted by experienced riders. You will reach 800 meters in approximately two hours, from there you can see the Gorropu canyon on one side and the Gulf of Orosei on the other.
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Trekking and Hiking Routes
The Gulf of Orosei's shore faces the ocean. Since most of the stunning beaches are remote, it's best to follow the hiking paths if you're in good physical shape.
Trails winding 40 kilometers between beaches, cliffs, and caves can be found starting at Cala Gonone. The whole time, you'll be encircled by the aromatic Mediterranean scrub. If you relocate to the mountain Supramonte, you will discover amazing gorges, canyons, and karst springs.
The medium-difficulty path from Cala Fuili to Cala Luna is one of the more picturesque ones in the region. The 2-hour journey starts at the stairs at the end of the street (viale del Bue Marino), winds through a few small beaches, and ends at Cala Luna, which gets its name from its crescent shape. The beach is roughly 600 meters long and is made up of sand made of granite and limestone.
If you are staying in Cala Gonone for a few days, you should definitely go into the Gorropu Gorge, which is the second-deepest canyon in Europe. You can follow the designated trail to the bottom of the canyon, starting at Sa Brava.
Trekking from Cala Gonone to Dorgali: This easy path will show you the Galaria Etza, a tunnel excavated in the middle of the 19th century, and the Iscala omines, a 200-meter-long man-made stairway that offers breathtaking views.
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The Beaches of Cala Gonone
While the water is undoubtedly magnificent here as well, as it is almost everywhere in Sardinia, the most stunning coves and beaches are not easily accessible from the main beach.
This following lists the beaches of Cala Gonone that are the most beautiful, ranging from the most accessible to the most remote. The majority of the most well-known beaches are only reachable by boat or by strenuous hiking, thus getting there usually takes time or physical effort.
Spiaggia Centrale
Because it's closest to the harbor, Cala Gonone's primary beach is the easiest to reach. It is a stunning beach with excellent sand that empties into a bay with quiet, safe waters.
La spiaggia di Palmasera
The biggest beach in Cala Gonone, Palmasera, is easily accessible and has wheelchair and stroller pathways, making it an ideal choice for families and anyone with mobility impairments.
SOS Dorroles
A kilometer or so separates Cala Gonone from the little settlement of Sos Dorroles. This region makes it simple to go to Cala Fuili, which is at the end of the road and has white sand, boulders, and crystal blue water, and Ziu Martine, which has a pebble beach and volcanic rock.
Cala Fuili
Cala Fuili is the final beach accessible by driving from Cala Gonone. It is, in reality, situated at the end of Viale Bue Marino and may be accessed by a stairway with around 100 steps leading right to the beach. The cove is confined between two headlands, and its beach is built of gravel and white sand. The turquoise tint of the water makes it remarkable.
Cala Luna
Because of its long 600 meters, its very white sand, and the series of six massive caves that provide shade from the heat, Cala Luna is one of the most well-known and stunning beaches in the Gulf of Orosei. The beach is reachable by water or by a walking path surrounded by Mediterranean scrub that is medium to very challenging.
Cala Sisine
The white sand and stones of Cala Sisine, which comes after Cala Luna, add to the blue color of the lake. Either by boat or on foot, you may get to the cove by parking at Planu and Murta and walking for around half an hour along the designated path.
Cala Biriola
Cala Biriola, the next bay you come to, is little but exquisite because to its location between tall cliffs and the colors it receives from the Mediterranean Sea and holm oak woodland. Accessible by boat or foot by a walking path beginning at the Baunei Golgo, this cove is ideal for snorkeling.
Cala Mariolu
Cala Mariolu is regarded as one of Sardinia's most beautiful bays. What appears as an imitation of a natural swimming pool is created by the translucent water and the rocks above it. Snorkeling and diving on the seafloor are highly recommended. Trekking routes begin from Golgo di Baunei and go to this beach, which is accessible by water. It takes around three-four hours to complete the 6 kilometer trip.
Cala Goritzè
Cala Goloritzè is the last place we locate, famed for both the sea-facing rock arch and the climber-friendly Monte Caroddi. Given the uniqueness of the granite formations meeting the white sand and turquoise ocean, this cove is designated as a Natural Monument. From the Porteddu parking lot, you may hike or take a boat to this beach. There will be an almost 500-meter height difference and it will take around an hour to descend and an hour and a half to get back up.
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Where to Eat in Cala Gonone
These are some of my favorite places to eat in Cala Gonone:
Orion La Veranda: They have some very amazing pizza and Italian food here.
Tanca 'e Gaia: This place is a feast of Mediterranean and Italian cuisine; picture "Sardinian nachos" and start feeling toasty.
With a strong blend of Italian and Mediterranean, Turismo Rurale Filieri has nailed the classic Sardinian setting.
Pizzeria Smile: Thin crust, excellent service—for pizza connoisseurs, this establishment is a treat.
Pizza di Mitri Associazione di Pizza di Pira Pasati: Both the pizzas and the name are quite a mouthful. Moreover, the vibe? Very hospitable.
Not merely a catchy moniker, Wikipizza serves you delicious pizza and gnocchi in a laid-back atmosphere.
Rifugio Gorropu: Imagine dining on Mediterranean and Italian cuisine in an incredibly lovely environment.
Sa Làntia: They provide Mediterranean and Italian food with a focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Pasta & Pasta: Fresh, homemade, Mediterranean, Italian — it's like a foodie high five.
Italian and seafood dishes are served at Restaurant de l'Hotel Ispinigoli, which has a breathtaking view. Don't forget to eat, however.
Is Cala Gonone Worth Visiting?
Yes! While scouting travel spots around Italy, I totally hit gold with Cala Gonone. It's a name that's somewhat of hidden gem on Sardinia's coast. Close your eyes and picture perfect beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes. It's absolutely top-notch perfection for sunbathing, hiking, or exploring hidden coves. And the food there is a delicious mix of Sardinian tradition and fresh ingredients. If you're heading to Italy, don't miss Cala Gonone. It's a must-see. Trust me.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions About Cala Gonone)
For getting to Cala Gonone, Italy, Tortolì Airport is your closest bet, just about 25 miles out. There's also Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, a bit farther at 43 miles, and then you've got Alghero–Fertilia and Cagliari Elmas Airports, roughly 74 and 77 miles away, respectively. Each airport gives you a different angle to approach Cala Gonone, so when you're planning your trip, weigh your options in terms of convenience and the flights you can snag.
Yeah, you can definitely hoof it to Cala Goloritzè. Starting off in Baunei, the trail stretches about 4.5 kilometers, climbing roughly 400 meters. It's not a cakewalk, mind you, with some steep and tricky spots, but the route, kicking off from Golgo Plateau, dishes out some jaw-dropping coastal views. From Cala Gonone, you're looking at a solid hour and fifteen-minute trek. It's a bit of a grind, sure, but for those who dig nature and a good hike, the scenery and that endgame beach are totally worth the sweat.
Heading to Cala Luna in Sardinia, you've got two solid options:
Boat Style: Jump on a boat from Porto di Cala Gonone or Spiaggia Marina di Orosei. Easy ride, killer coastal views.
Hiker's Route: Prefer the path less traveled? Trek it from Cala Fuili. This 12-kilometer round trip hike takes about six hours, offering a gritty, rewarding journey through classic Mediterranean greenery. Not a lot of lookouts, but it's about the journey, right?
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Bet you're still riding high from the Cala Gonone escapade; if that little adventure lit your fire, just wait until you dive into our other Italian guides. Buon Viaggio!
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