Cala Fenile hike: route, tips, and what to expect

Cala Fenile is a small and secluded cove along the Baunei Coast in Sardinia. It belongs to the municipality of Baunei, a territory renowned for its dramatic landscapes and unspoiled nature. By following the first section of the Selvaggio Blu trail, just before the Pedra Longa restaurant, you can reach one of the most peaceful and fascinating corners of the Baunei Coast. Cala Fenile was created in 2015 after an intense rain event that shaped this tiny pebble beach.

With its clear waters, wild setting and quiet atmosphere, Cala Fenile is perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful stop away from the crowds. The view from the trail and the sense of immersion in nature make this location truly special.

HIKING DETAILS

• Distance: 2.5 km
• Hiking time: About 45 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation gain: 290 m
• Trail markings: Good and easy to follow

HIKE DESCRIPTION

The hike to Cala Fenile starts from Pedra Longa along a well-marked path. It is an easy route with beautiful panoramic views. As you walk, the towering cliffs of the Baunei Coast rise around you, creating an incredible sense of scale.

Along the way, you will enjoy a stunning view of Punta Giradili, the third highest sea cliff in Europe, and the turquoise sea below. Cala Fenile welcomes you with its pebble shore, ideal for a refreshing swim or a relaxing break in a peaceful natural setting.

USEFUL TIPS

• Footwear: wear closed shoes or hiking shoes for safe footing.
• Water: bring at least one liter of water, especially during summer.
• Food and snacks: there are no services along the path or on the beach, so bring everything you need.
• Phone signal: coverage may be limited both on the trail and at the beach.

CURIOSITIES ABOUT CALA FENILE

• A recent creation: Cala Fenile formed in 2015 after a major flood event, making it one of the “youngest” beaches on the Baunei Coast.
• Cliff views: the hike offers spectacular views of Punta Giradili, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe and an iconic landmark of the area.

CALA FENILE TRAIL MAP

L'articolo Cala Fenile: the hike proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Cala Sisine: where mountains meet the sea

With its 500 meters in length and 100 meters in depth, Cala Sisine is one of the widest and most striking beaches on the Baunei Coast. It sits between Punta Plummare and the Dolài coastline, offering a perfect blend of rugged mountains and crystal clear sea.

Formed by the rocky debris carried by the Codula di Sisine stream descending from the Golgo Plateau, the beach is surrounded by towering cliffs, ancient trees and bright white pebbles. The meeting of the mountain landscape and the turquoise water creates a truly unique setting in Sardinia.

Just a few steps from the beach, the restaurant “Su Coile” offers the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing break with local dishes after a day by the sea or a hike.

TREKKING DETAILS

• Distance: 1.5 km
• Duration: About 30 minutes on foot
• Difficulty: F (Easy)
• Signage: Good, on a clear and visible path
• Starting point: “Planu ’e Murta”, Baunei

TRAIL DESCRIPTION

The hike to Cala Sisine is short and enjoyable, perfect for those looking for a more relaxed experience compared to other trails on the Baunei Coast. The trail begins in the area of “Planu ’e Murta,” which can be reached in about one hour from Baunei by driving across the Golgo Plateau.

A 4×4 vehicle or quad is recommended, since the road is unpaved. After parking at the trailhead, a pleasant 30 minute walk will take you to the beach.

Along the way, you will be surrounded by breathtaking scenery: towering cliffs, lush holm oak woods and the riverbed of the Codula di Sisine stream, which created the beach.

USEFUL TIPS

• Vehicle: A 4×4, off-road vehicle or quad is recommended to reach the starting point.
• Footwear: Hiking shoes are suggested for better stability, although comfortable closed shoes may also be suitable.
• Food and drinks: The restaurant “Su Coile” near the beach offers typical dishes, cold drinks and snacks.
• Local guides and quad rental: For a more adventurous experience, visit the “Outdoor Activities” and “Hiking Guides” sections in our interactive map.

PARKING AND TRAIL START

Parking is available at “Planu ’e Murta,” reachable in about one hour from Baunei by crossing the Golgo Plateau. Check the map for the exact location. Get ready to experience a unique adventure between mountains and sea. Cala Sisine is waiting for you.

L'articolo Cala Sisine: the hike proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Cala Biriala: the hike to a secluded cove of rare beauty

An adventure through wild nature and breathtaking scenery leads you to Cala Biriala, one of the most enchanting coves on the Baunei Coast. Less known than other coastal gems, this hidden corner amazes with its polished white pebbles, crystal clear water and a striking natural arch carved into the cliff.

HIKING DETAILS FOR CALA BIRIALA

• Distance: 2.5 km
• Hiking time: 1.5h down | 2h back
• Difficulty: EE (for expert hikers)
• Elevation gain: 440 m
• Starting point: Olobitzi, Baunei
• Note: Not recommended for people with vertigo

TRAIL DESCRIPTION

The hike to Cala Biriala is a unique experience that immerses you in the most authentic nature of Sardinia. The trail begins on a dirt road on the Golgo Plateau, accessible via a rough unpaved road. From here, it continues through oak forests and limestone sections offering extraordinary views.

Along the way, wooden and iron ladders as well as rock passages add a touch of adventure. The scenery is unforgettable: the deep green of the forest, the white limestone walls and the turquoise Mediterranean merge in a spectacular contrast.

Once you arrive, Cala Biriala welcomes you with a scenic natural arch and crystal clear waters that are perfect for a refreshing swim. Take your time to enjoy the tranquility and unique beauty of this secluded cove.

USEFUL TIPS

• Vehicle: A 4×4 is not strictly necessary, but the road is rough. Low-clearance vehicles may struggle or risk damage.
• Guide: hiring a local guide increases safety and enriches your hike with stories and insights about nature and local culture. You can find contacts in the “Hiking Guides” section of our interactive map.
• Equipment: wear hiking shoes with good grip and bring at least 2 liters of water per person, snacks and comfortable clothing.
• Best time to visit: from April to October for ideal sea and weather conditions. Keep in mind that July and August can be crowded; visiting during quieter months makes the experience even more enjoyable.
• For travel creators and photographers: in April, May and June, natural light is perfect for capturing Cala Biriala’s vibrant colors, and tourist traffic is still low.
• Food and drinks: there are no services on the beach, so bring everything you need for the day.
• Summer heat: if hiking in midsummer, start early in the morning and return in the late afternoon to avoid the hottest hours.
• Phone signal: coverage is limited both along the trail and at the beach. Plan ahead and inform someone of your itinerary.
• Rules: dogs are not allowed on the beach.

PARKING AND TRAILHEAD

Paid parking is available in the Olobitzi area, located a short distance from the trailhead. Get ready for a memorable experience among untouched nature and spectacular horizons. Cala Biriala is waiting for you.

L'articolo Cala Biriala: the hike proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Cala Mariolu: the hiking trail to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world

Cala Mariolu, one of the gems of the Baunei Coast, is famous for its white pebbles, crystal clear water and wild atmosphere that make it truly unique. Reachable by sea or through a challenging hike suitable for expert hikers, this beach is a must-see for anyone who loves adventure and untouched nature.

HIKING DETAILS FOR CALA MARIOLU

• Distance: 6 km
• Duration: About 2 hours and 45 minutes
• Difficulty level: EE (For expert hikers)
• Elevation gain/loss: 200 m uphill and 560 m downhill
• Starting point: “Piredda” area, Baunei
• Note: Not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo

TRAIL DESCRIPTION

The hike to Cala Mariolu starts from the “Piredda” area on the Golgo Plateau in Baunei. The dirt road leading to the starting point is in good condition and can be reached with any car that is not too low.

The trail crosses ancient shepherd shelters and includes unique features such as juniper trunks that act as natural stairways. Along the way, you will be immersed in wild, untouched nature, surrounded by breathtaking viewpoints and small insights into local history and culture.

Once you reach the beach, you will be rewarded with the incredible beauty of Cala Mariolu: white pebbles, transparent water and a unique atmosphere that earned it the title of Best Beach in Europe 2024 and second best beach in the world according to The World’s 50 Best Beaches

USEFUL TIPS

• Guide: hiring a local guide is strongly recommended, as the trail can be challenging and not always well marked. Check the “Hiking Guides” section on our interactive map to find experienced guides who can enrich your hike with stories and insights about the area.
• Equipment: wear hiking shoes with good grip and bring at least 2 liters of water per person, snacks and comfortable clothing.
• Food and drinks: from June to September, a small kiosk is available on the beach with drinks and snacks. However, it is always advisable to bring everything you need, especially if hiking outside these months.
• Heat warning: during summer, start early in the morning and plan your return for late afternoon to avoid the hottest hours.
• Phone coverage: mobile reception may be limited both along the trail and on the beach. Plan ahead and inform someone of your itinerary.
• Rules: dogs are not allowed on the beach.
• Sustainability: take everything you bring with you and leave only your footprints. Respect the local environment, flora and fauna so that Cala Mariolu remains unspoiled for future generations.

PARKING AND TRAILHEAD

Free parking is available in a clearing along the dirt road leading to the starting point of the trail.

L'articolo Cala Mariolu: the hike proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Cala Goloritzé hike: schedule, booking, and useful tips

Cala Goloritzé, famous for its natural rock arch, crystal-clear waters, and the impressive limestone pinnacle Punta Caroddi,is a must-see for anyone who loves nature and adventure. Awarded as the World’s Best Beach in 2025, it is one of the most remarkable places along the Baunei Coast. This unforgettable hike leads you through one of the most beautiful and untouched landscapes in Sardinia.

HIKE DETAILS

• Total distance: 3.6 km
• Duration: about 1 hour 30 minutes downhill | 2 hours uphill
• Elevation gain: around 500 meters
• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
• Trail opening hours: from 7:30 to 17:00
• Trail signage: good and easy to follow
• Starting point: Su Porteddu, Baunei

TRAIL DESCRIPTION

The hike to Cala Goloritzé starts from the Golgo Plateau in Baunei and winds through Mediterranean scrub for about an hour and a half. Along the way, you will enjoy panoramic views that open over the mountains and the turquoise sea below.

Access to the beach is limited to hikers. By sea, boats can only approach as far as the buoys, placed 300 meters from the shore, to protect the marine environment. From there, visitors can admire the beach from the water, swim offshore or, for strong swimmers, reach the beach by swimming in.

CALA GOLORITZÈ: HOW TO BOOK YOUR ACCESS

To enjoy the unique experience of Cala Goloritzé, a reservation is required, a system designed to preserve the natural beauty of the beach and make your visit unforgettable.

Reservations are mandatory from April to October and allow access to a maximum of 250 people at the same time, helping protect this extraordinary site. You can book your spot starting 72 hours before your hike.

The cost is €7 per person (free for children under 6) and includes guarded parking. It is recommended to book as soon as the desired date becomes available, as spots fill up quickly.

You can book through the following channels:

• Website: www.heartofsardinia.com
• App: Heart of Sardinia
• WhatsApp: +39 349 546 2583 | +39 380 461 6989

USEFUL TIPS

• Shoes: wear closed shoes with good grip, preferably hiking shoes, to walk the trail safely.
• Water: bring at least 2 liters of water per person, especially in the warmer months.
• Food and snacks: there are no food services on the beach. Bring everything you need for the day.
• Heat: if you hike in mid-summer, start early in the morning and return in the late afternoon to avoid the hottest hours.
• Rules: dogs are not allowed on the beach.
• Best time to visit: visit Cala Goloritzé from April to October to enjoy its clear waters and ideal weather. Keep in mind that July and August can be very crowded. If possible, plan your visit during quieter months to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
• For travel creators and photographers: in late April, May and June, the natural light is perfect for capturing the extraordinary colors of Cala Goloritzé, when visitor traffic is lower.
• Sustainability: take everything you bring with you and leave only your footprints in the sand. Respect local flora and fauna to preserve this pristine beach. Follow local rules and protect the environment to ensure Cala Goloritzé remains an unspoiled treasure for future generations.
• Safety: Avoid standing directly under the rock walls, as small landslides can occur due to the movement of wild animals.

PARKING AND TRAIL START

Guarded parking is available at the “Su Porteddu” rest area, located at the beginning of the trail. The rest area is open from April to October. Check the map for the exact location.

Get ready to experience the unspoiled beauty of Cala Goloritzé!

L'articolo Cala Goloritzé: the hike proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.