Calagonone
As well as its fabulous beaches, Cala Gonone is renowned for the deep marine grottoes that pit the cliff-lined coast hereabouts. The most famous of these is the Grotta del Bue Marino, a luminescent gallery filled with remarkable natural sculptures. It was named for after the Mediterranean monk seal or “sea ox” (bue marino) that once sheltered here – now long since disappeared.
Most boat excursions take in Cala Luna, a wide wedge of pebbly sand 4.3 miles (7km) south of Cala Gonone, with sheltered, shallow water and a bar. You can also walk here from Cala Fuili in about two hours, along a path that’s occasionally tricky but largely shaded (though sun hats and water are essential accompaniments). A good option is to experience both ways – walking there and taking the boat back, or vice versa.
40.225292
9.626671
08022 Calagonone, Province of Nuoro