From the Alto Plano di Golgo, above the village of Baunei, access to the calanques is not so easy, but well worth the detour. Cala Goloritze, which graces the cover of many a guidebook or tourist brochure, is a tiny beach wedged between rocks and cliffs, with translucent water in astonishing shades of blue. A short round-trip trek provides easy access, at least on the way down, as the climb back up proves quite exhausting, especially in midsummer. The only problem is the crowds! The trail is very busy, despite the effort involved and the crowded beach. This hike, which is accessible but not of enormous interest apart from the cala, is best done out of season, to really enjoy the place, which even with so many people is still magnificent. Better, wilder and with an incredible view of the cala and the Golfo di Orosei, is the Punta Salinas, a more difficult route, with an identical start and a possible passage through Cala Goloritze.
Technical summary
Access to the place
From the Baunei center, take the winding road up to the plateau (multiple signs for Golgo and Su Porteddu). Once on the plateau, follow the road almost to the end. Before the San Pietro church and the start of the track, turn right towards Cala Goloritze and Su Porteddu. At the end of the 1km track, you'll find the Su Porteddu bar, where you can park (and camp, for that matter, for 8 euros per person).
Itinerary description
Hiking to the start 2'
From the bar, exit and turn right. After a few dozen metres, you'll see a large signpost indicating the route and the start on the left under the woods.
Course
The route is very easy to follow and well marked, given the crowds. There's no particular difficulty on the outward journey, as there's only a slight difference in altitude over the first 20 minutes to pass a pass and catch a glimpse of the sea below. The descent is quite steep at times, but no problem. As you get closer, you'll discover the Aguglia, a superb 150m rocky needle overlooking the beach, with some great climbing routes in store. Allow 45' to 1h for the descent. In summer, access to Cala Goloritze costs 1 euro.
The climb back up is therefore more arduous. It's best to be in good shape and have plenty of water. No extra difficulty, but 1h to 1h30 of almost continuous ascent. Pass the pass before recovering on the short final descent.
Leave a Reply