An Italian natural monument, Cala Goloritzé is the symbol of Ogliastra: a crescent of white pebbles beneath the Aguglia, a 143-metre limestone spire loved by climbers worldwide.
Why it is unique
Born from a landslide in 1962 and now a protected national monument: no boats on shore, no umbrella rentals, capped daily numbers. That is exactly what preserves its beauty — the rock arch over the sea, the freshwater spring among the pebbles, the Aguglia glowing at sunset.
The hike in
The trail starts on the Golgo plateau above Baunei: leave the car at the paid trailhead and descend about 3.5 km along the old charcoal-burners' mule track, among ancient junipers and limestone walls. Down 1h15–1h30, back up 1h45–2h. Bring hiking shoes, at least 1.5 l of water each and a hat: shade is scarce.
Our tips
- Start early: at 8am the trail is cool and the cove still quiet.
- Book access a few days ahead in summer.
- Bring a mask and snorkel: the seabed is among the clearest in the Mediterranean.
- In September the water is warm and the crowds halve — for us it is the perfect month.
From I Mandorli you reach the Golgo in about 40 minutes: breakfast at dawn, the hike, then back for a dip in Sa Barza.