Tritts Top 5: Hidden Gems of Sardinia

5. Hidden pearl of Sardinia: the Coghinas river

A great destination for the active tourist is the river and lake of Coghinas, located in the northwest of Sardinia in the province of Sassari. To be precise, 'Lago del Coghinas' lies between the Oschiri valleys and the slopes of Mount Limbara, on the border of the Logudoro and Gallura regions. The lake was created in 1927 when the river of the same name was dammed by the construction of a 185 m long and 58 m high dam. The Coghinas River is the third longest river in Sardinia.

Despite being an artificial reservoir, like almost all lakes in Sardinia, the landscape and nature surrounding the lake are very photogenic. You will find forests of holm oaks, cork oaks, and Mediterranean vegetation with rich flora and fauna. Birdwatching and photography enthusiasts will love this area, as there are many bird species, such as the red and white heron, the pink flamingo, mallards, cormorants, hawks, turtledoves, kingfishers, and robins. There are also boat trips to spot birds from the city of Valledoria. Anglers can fish for trout, perch, catfish, carp, and crayfish.

You can also choose to take a trip on foot or by mountain bike to the Su Filigosu forest, on the slopes of the Limbara, where you can see animals such as deer, fallow deer, and mouflons.

An hour's drive from Lake Coghinas lies the Casteldoria hot springs in Santa Maria del Coghinas on the Coghinas River. The thermal baths are named after the old, now-defunct village of Casteldoria, dating back to the 12th century. Only the tower remains of the old Doria family castle. Directly on the riverbank lies the Spa center and hotel Therme Casteldoria which offers a variety of treatments in combination with a sauna, steam baths, and hydromassage showers. But you can also enjoy swimming and sunbathing in and by the river. The river water is heated and can reach temperatures of up to 70°C. In winter, the combination of warm water and cold air creates large clouds of steam above the river. The water is warmest directly beneath the spa. The sulfurous mud at the bottom of the river is touted for its miraculous properties, which are said to relieve joint pain. You can experience the effect of a natural mud bath yourself, just as many locals and tourists do. Dive into the river and swim to the hottest point, spread the mud from the bottom (be careful; it is hot) in a few layers over your body (or over particularly sore spots), let it dry on the side for an hour, then immerse yourself back in the river, rinse off the mud, and enjoy a swim in the warm water. A wonderful way to relax after a day full of outdoor activities and sports at the lake!

3. Hidden gem of Sardinia: Limbara Mountains

One of the most fascinating and at the same time easiest routes on Monte Limbara is the one to the Li Conchi caves, 7 enormous granite rocks with large cavities that were used as houses in antiquity. This route is also accessible by car from the SS 392.

The summit of the Limbara, Punta Balistreri, with a beautiful panoramic view, can also be reached by car via a route of approximately 12 km, but with many bends.

One last tip: don't forget to bring some snacks, such as Ozieri bread (thin, soft sheets made from durum wheat, similar to wraps), which you can buy in all supermarkets here and which is typical of the region. Garnish with the excellent spicy cream cheese and local sausages, roll it up, and you're ready to face the day's fatigue. Enjoy your tour!

Located in the enchanting Gulf of Orosei, on the east coast of Sardinia, near the picturesque towns of Dorgali and Baunei, Cala Luna is a place you should not miss during a visit to Sardinia. In Cala Luna, you will find a beautiful golden beach hidden in a protected bay surrounded by scenic rock formations carved out by wind and time. Cala Luna features numerous spacious natural caves where you can find shade, a clear turquoise sea, and pristine nature.

Tritt's tip: Stay in the nearby tourist village of Arbatax in the Arbatax Cottage Resort or in the Residence The Dream.

Near Cala Luna, you will find Cala Goloritzè, one of the most memorable places to visit in Sardinia. Cala Goloritzè is where the scenic beauty of the Sardinian mountains meets the clear turquoise water and tropical-style beaches of the Sardinian coast. The beach consists of smooth white sand and pebbles and is protected by picturesque rock walls. The water is incredibly clear, allowing you to clearly see the seabed without even needing snorkeling gear!

Cala Goloritzè can be reached in various ways. Just like the nearby Cala Luna, Cala Goloritzè is part of the “Selvaggio Blu” hiking trail. But don't worry: there is also an easier way to get to Cala Goloritzè. You can drive to the “Su Porteddu” car park near the town of Baunei, and from there, it is about a 1-hour walk to the beach (1,5 hours on the way back, uphill).

Another option is to reach Cala Goloritzè by boat. Arbatax, Cala Gonone, and Santa Maria Navarrese are the departure ports.