Sardinia - The Bay of Chia

The splendid Bay of Chia in Southern Sardinia.

For the organisation of this trip I made use of the information on the website

We begin the journey that will take us through the splendid beaches of the most beautiful spot on the whole southern coast of Sardinia, starting from the east. Right away we come across the small coves that link the islet of "Su Cardolinu", also known as "Isula Manna", to the mainland. This part of the bay can only be reached on foot, but it is a pleasant five-minute walk that can start at the foot of the promontory of the Tower of Chia. The islet of Su Cardolinu, moreover, is known above all to historians for the archaeological excavations that have brought to light what remains of the ancient Phoenician-Punic city of Bithia with its characteristic Tophets. Some of the finds recovered there are also available at the Archaeological Museum of Domus de Maria, of which Chia is part.

Continuing west, we reach the cove known as "Il Porticciolo", with its typical crescent shape and immediately deep waters. The little beach of Il Porticciolo lies at the foot of the promontory on which the famous Tower of Chia stands. The view and the panorama that this promontory offers is truly impressive. To the right of the tower is the long stretch of sand of "Sa Colonia" beach. At the western end of Sa Colonia is the promontory known as "Monte Cogoni". Behind the beach is the Chia pond which, together with the Spartivento pond (slightly further west), forms the peaceful home of the Pink Flamingos. Continuing further west, past Monte Cogoni, we come upon "Cala del Morto", a little beach whose name really does it no justice. This cove too can only be reached on foot.

Another five minutes of walking along a path adorned with typical Mediterranean scrub, starting from the car park behind the beach of "Porto Campana". The latter beach, however, is characterised by its dunes, which are the prelude to the dunes of the next beach and which make the bay famous. We have thus arrived at the beach of "Su Giudeu" (also known as "S'Abba Durci") which takes its name from the small island facing it. Golden, very fine sand. Finally, the last stop of the journey through the beaches of Chia. The very famous "Cala Cipolla" with its junipers that provide convenient shelter from the scorching summer sun for anyone who wants to spend an entire day admiring the crystal-clear sea that bathes it.