Capo Figari is a true open-air museum in Golfo Aranci. A captivating and pristine kaleidoscope of colors, history, scents, and nature.
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Capo Figari and its wonders
Capo Figari is a predominantly limestone promontory in the territory of Golfo Aranci. The peninsula located along the Gallura coast begins with an isthmus that hosts the town of Golfo Aranci. This promontory divides the coast into 2 large gulfs, forming the Gulf of Congianus to the north, which encompasses the Gulf of Marinella, and the Gulf of Olbia to the south.
Its summit reaches about 350 meters above sea level, and its coasts are characterized by rocks, sand, and sea in enchanting colors: the beaches of Golfo Aranci (the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth), the Baracconi beach, Cala Moresca, Cala del Sonno, up to the north to Cala Sabina.
The northeastern part of Capo Figari, facing the open sea, is famous for its limestone cliffs with The Amphitheater – an incredible cliff that rises 200 meters steeply above the sea, accessible exclusively by boat. Capo Figari and the island of Figarolo, thanks to their particular richness in terms of biodiversity, are a SIC Site of Community Importance included in the Natura 2000 network.
There are really many things to see; remember to bring some water bottles with you, and it is advised not to undertake this visit on foot during the hottest hours of the day - especially in August
The road to Capo Figari
How to reach Capo Figari
To find the road leading to the Promontory of Capo Figari, it is essential first to reach Golfo Aranci. Then, you must proceed beyond the town and the marina area and continue on the road leading to Cala Moresca.
Via Cala Moresca is initially a paved road – up to the small countryside church – then it transforms into a dirt road accessible both by car and on foot. Once you reach the height of the Baracconi beach, you need to leave your car in the parking lots (paid parking during the summer season and free in winter) and continue on foot.
Before parking, pay close attention to the road signs and do not enter prohibited areas. Fines are just around the corner.
From the Baracconi beach, the visit to Capo Figari begins, the best choice is to follow the coastline starting from the parking area to pass through “The Little Helichrysum Path.”
It is a delightful portion of the path, near an ancient lime kiln, lined at the edge of the railway by a true expanse of fragrant helichrysum – in spring with a truly massive blooming.
Along the way and on the promontory, there are various well-marked ptrekking paths with signage and specific infographics explaining.
- Visit the Amphitheater, a cliff that rises 200 meters.
- Explore the beaches of Golfo Aranci, such as Cala Moresca and Cala Sabina.
- Discover the biodiversity of the island of Figarolo.
- Go trekking along the marked paths.
- Enjoy a boat tour to admire the limestone cliffs.
Also read What to see in Golfo Aranci
2 enchanted bays: Cala Moresca
From the Baracconi Beach, continuing on foot along the dirt road leads to the enchanting bay of Cala Moresca with its two beaches and the sea with breathtaking colors. In front of the bay, for protection, you can see the nearby Figarolo Islet.
In the area behind Cala Moresca, there are constructions, furnaces, and a small site of industrial archaeology with a lime kiln abandoned after just a few years of operation. A pine forest provides shade and shelter for the animals populating the area.
From Cala Moresca, the path begins that leads up and into the promontory. Continuing the road beyond the gate, you can reach:
- The English Cemetery with Cala Greca and the fort of Punta Filasca
- The Charcoal Burners' Trail leading to Case Rosse
- The Marconi Semaphore of the Navy.
The English Cemetery
From Cala Moresca, the path begins that leads up and into the promontory. Continuing the road beyond the gate, you can reach:
- The English Cemetery with Cala Greca and the fort of Punta Filasca
- The Charcoal Burners' Trail leading to Case Rosse
- The Marconi Semaphore of the Navy.
Less than 100 meters from the access gate of Cala Moresca is the first fork, well marked. Taking the road to the right leads to the English Cemetery, a tiny space enclosed by a fence surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and typical plants. In this reserved place, there are some tombs, one of which features a Celtic cross that has led to naming this peaceful place “of the English”.
The most visible tomb is that placed in honor of an English sailor – Sacred To The Memory of George Bradshaw Died 12 June 1900 Aged 18 years H.M.S. Vulcan. In reality, the English Cemetery of Golfo Aranci mainly hosts Italian sailors lost during some shipwrecks along the coast.
Cala Greca
Beyond the small cemetery, you arrive at the picturesque Cala Greca with its small sea accesses. Beyond Cala Greca, you can spot the rock called Mama Chiatta while navigating along the coast, with a profile resembling an elderly lady with a bun who gazes at the sea. During boat trips in this area, you can also admire the rock of Mamuthone – a typical Sardinian mask – and then the amphitheater – the famous cliff overlooking the sea.
The Fort of Punta Filasca
On the road leading to the English Cemetery, continuing towards the promontory of Punta Filasca, you reach the coastal battery Luigi Serra built during the war. At the top of Punta Filasca, there are visible circular bases with large bolts on which the cannons were anchored.
In the depths in front of the fort, there are numerous archaeological finds, including many anchors from the Byzantine period, submerged caves inhabited by abundant marine life including groupers, cicadas, octopuses, corvine, amberjacks, and morays. According to a study conducted by the University of Cagliari, over 200 anchors dating back to this period have been cataloged, making the area an important archaeological site.
The Semaphore and Guglielmo Marconi
How to Reach the Marconi Semaphore
The easiest way to reach the Marconi Semaphore in Golfo Aranci, located at the top of Capo Figari, is to walk the road that starts from Cala Moresca beyond the access gate. Traveling the uphill path for about 3 kilometers leads you to the summit of Capo Figari, where the remains of the military marina semaphore stand at around 350 meters above sea level.
The History of Guglielmo Marconi
On August 11, 1932, Guglielmo Marconi completed a shortwave radio bridge with the first microwave transmission between Capo Figari and Rocca di Papa – Rome at 269 km. Along the route, there are informative signs providing information about the flora, fauna, and interesting historical notes about the area and Marconi's experiments.
Views and Attractions
Upon reaching the Semaphore, you are rewarded with breathtaking views; the sensation is of having reached the top floor before paradise. From the summit, you have a 360° view of the territory, a panoramic point with to the south the Gulf of Olbia with Capo Ceraso and the island of Tavolara, and to the north the islands of Soffi and Mortorio along with Cala di Volpe, the Archipelago of La Maddalena and the Costa Smeralda illuminating the backdrop.
Current Conditions of the Semaphore
The structure that makes up the Semaphore of Capo Figari is currently in a state of decay and in some areas precarious. It consists of three main buildings: the semaphore station, the telegraphic station, and the mess hall.
FAQ: Is it possible to visit the Marconi Semaphore?
Yes, the Marconi Semaphore is open to the public. It is recommended to visit it during daylight hours to enjoy the panoramic view and for safety during the ascent.
Figarolo Island: Between Mouflons and Herons
In front of the enchanting bay of Cala Moresca stands the small island of Figarolo, as it is only reachable by sea. It is a limestone outcrop that stands out in the sea for its pyramidal shape; the flora and fauna present on the island are of absolute interest.
Among the prominent species are mouflons, cormorants, peregrine falcons, royal gulls, and corsican gulls. In late August and September, you can admire the grey herons on the island's peaks that brighten the rocks and enliven life on the island.
The surrounding depths are a true paradise for those who love scuba diving, featuring submerged caves, bays, and landslides populated by migratory fish and schools of common fish.
In the southern area of the Island, even through snorkeling, you can see the submerged “Nativity scene” with statues of Mary, Joseph, and the baby.
FAQ: How can I visit Figarolo Island and what are the best times?
Figarolo Island is accessible exclusively by sea, with ferries or boat tours that depart from Golfo Aranci. The months of July and August are the busiest, while spring and early autumn offer a more tranquil and pleasant experience to explore the local fauna and flora.
The Milis Well and the Spring
Sacred Wells in Sardinia
Someone, many years ago, built a well that has reached us...
Near the train station of Golfo Aranci and the old colony, you find the Milis well, a sacred well with an internal spring dating back to the 3rd century BC (recent studies are trying to determine its exact dating). The sacred Milis well is the subject of archaeological studies and one of the attractions of Golfo Aranci. The surrounding territory is not widely enhanced; however, to better understand its nature, more in-depth research has been initiated with the aim of making it more accessible in the future.
It is one of the few sacred wells near water present in Sardinia, and it is believed that the remains of a Nuragic village may be found nearby.
Very distinctive is the ceiling covering the well that gives the impression of a staircase with an inverted view.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best beaches to visit at Capo Figari?
- Among the best beaches to visit at Capo Figari are Cala Moresca, Baracconi Beach, and Cala Sabina. Each of these offers crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views.
- How do I get to Capo Figari from Golfo Aranci?
- To reach Capo Figari from Golfo Aranci, you need to follow the road to Cala Moresca. After the last paved area, continue on a dirt road until you reach the parking near Baracconi Beach.
- What can I do at Capo Figari?
- At Capo Figari, you can explore hiking trails, admire the Amphitheater with its limestone cliffs, and take boat tours to appreciate the rocky coastline. Don't forget to visit Figarolo Island and its biodiversity.
- When is the best time to visit Capo Figari?
- The best time to visit Capo Figari is in spring or early autumn when temperatures are milder. During the summer months, it's advisable to avoid the hottest hours to fully enjoy the experience.
- Is it possible to hike at Capo Figari?
- Yes, there are several well-marked hiking paths around Capo Figari. The trails offer stunning views of the sea and inland, suitable for hikers of all levels.
- Are there picnic areas at Capo Figari?
- While there are no official picnic areas, you can find shaded spots near the beaches where it's advisable to bring your own packed lunch. Be sure to take your trash away to keep the area clean.
- Are there dining facilities at Capo Figari?
- There are not many dining facilities at Capo Figari, so it's advisable to bring food and drinks. However, in nearby Golfo Aranci, you can find numerous restaurants and bars to refresh yourself after an active day.