The town of Cala Gonone on Sardinia’s eastern coast offers breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea from its hillside perch. It has managed to retain an authentic Sardinian atmosphere while providing access to stunning beaches, rugged landscapes, and cultural experiences.
Visitors can indulge in trekking and climbing adventures, discover hidden coves and caves by boat, or simply relax on a variety of quiet sandy beaches.
It’s an ideal base for exploring the wild and untamed Gulf of Orosei, making it a paradise for beach lovers, hikers, and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Where is Cala Gonone?
Cala Gonone is located on the eastern coast of Sardinia. It’s part of the municipality of Dorgali in the province of Nuoro.
Situated around nine kilometres from Dorgali, Cala Gonone lies at the foot of the Supramonte mountains, overlooking the Gulf of Orosei.
How to get to Cala Gonone
Nearest airport to Cala Gonone
The nearest airport to Cala Gonone is Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport to the north-east. It offers domestic flights within Italy and international connections to various European cities.
Distances:
Cala Gonone to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport: 105 km (65 miles)
Cala Gonone to Alghero-Fertilia Airport: 172 km (107 miles)
Cala Gonone to Cagliari Elmas Airport: 219 km (136 miles)
Ferry travel
The nearest ferry port is Olbia (108 km/67 miles north-east), with connections to mainland Italy and other Mediterranean destinations.
Driving to Cala Gonone
Cala Gonone is accessible by car via the main SS131 highway running between Olbia and Cagliari. The final approach to Cala Gonone on the SP36 from Dorgali involves a scenic drive through a tunnel in the limestone mountains and some hairpin bends down to the port.
The SS125 – known as the ‘Orientale Sarda’ – is a more scenic but much slower route between Cagliari and Olbia running down the east coast of Sardinia.
History of Cala Gonone
The origins of Cala Gonone can be traced back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation in nearby caves dating back to the Neolithic period. There were also later Roman and Byzantine settlements in the area.
The modern village began to take shape in 1878 with the construction of a church. A colony of fishermen from Ponza settled here in the early 20th century and a road was carved through the mountains in the 1930s, connecting Cala Gonone to the inland town of Dorgali.
Before then this region was only accessible by sea. This development marked the beginning of Cala Gonone’s transformation from an isolated fishing village to a growing tourist destination.
Despite that growth, Cala Gonone has managed to retain much of its original charm and connection to nature. The town’s history is still visible in its traditional architecture, the old port, and the enduring fishing tradition that continues to this day.
What’s Cala Gonone known for?
- Stunning beaches accessible only by boat tour or hiking trails
- Dramatic limestone cliffs and sea caves
- Crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and diving
- Gateway to the Gulf of Orosei and its natural wonders
- Laid-back atmosphere and authentic Sardinian charm
Top things to do in Cala Gonone
Explore the beaches of the Gulf of Orosei
Take a boat tour or rent a small boat to discover the pristine beaches along the coast, such as Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Goloritzé. These secluded coves boast powdery sand and turquoise waters, framed by towering limestone cliffs.
Visit the Grotta del Bue Marino
Take a guided boat tour along the Gulf of Orosei. A popular destination is the Grotta del Bue Marino, a stunning sea cave system known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave was once home to monk seals and features prehistoric cave art. Boat tour agencies can be found around the harbour area.
Hike the Selvaggio Blu trail
Any adventurous (and experienced) hiker will be tempted by the Selvaggio Blu trail. This is a challenging multi-day trek along the coast, which takes in breathtaking views and hidden coves and should be undertaken as part of the guided group. If you’re not up for the full trail, shorter hikes in the area provide equally spectacular scenery.
Discover the Nuragic ruins
Cala Gonone boasts several significant Nuragic remains within easy reach of the town. The mysterious towers and village houses of the Nuragic civilisation provide a glimpse into Sardinia’s ancient but still very much undiscovered past.
Visit the Aquarium of Cala Gonone
Discover the marine life of the Mediterranean at the Aquarium of Cala Gonone. It’s an excellent activity for families and a great way to learn about the local ecosystem.
Nuraghe Mannu
Nuraghe Mannu is one of the most significant archaeological sites near Cala Gonone. It is located about four kilometres to the south of the town in a scenic position180 metres above the Cala Fuili beach.
The easiest way to get to the ruins is not from the beach however. Access the site either on foot on the Sentiero per Nuraghe trail from Cala Gonone itself (about an hour’s walk) or by car on a narrow turn-off from the main road out of town. There is limited space for parking at the ruins which fills up quickly in high season
The Nuragic civilization flourished in Sardinia from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age. The Nuraghe Mannu site features a large tower, or nuraghe, built from local basalt stones using impressive engineering skills.
Local Traditions
Cala Gonone celebrates several festivals throughout the year, especially in the high summer months of July and August.
The feast of ‘Madonna del Mare’ is held on the first weekend of July and includes a sea procession in which boats leave the port for the statue of the ‘Madonna of the Abyss’ to the north. The priest throws a wreath of flowers into the water and divers place the wreath on the head of the statue. Afterwards there is an evening firework display with music and dancing.
The popular Cala Gonone Jazz Festival runs from the middle to the end of July, with concerts in different locations around the village.
Cala Gonone Information
Cala Gonone Information: www.calagonone.com
Sardinia Tourism – Cala Gonone: www.sardegnaturismo.it
Cala Gonone Aquarium: acquariocalagonone.it (Italian only)
