DORGALI

This is one of the most famous tourist resorts in the Nuoro region and indeed, in all of Sardinia. Natural wonders and archaeological heritage make Dorgali one of the island’s most popular tourist destinations. The town is also a renowned cultural centre, closely linked to the farming and pastoral traditions of yesteryear and religious rites and celebrations, as well as the birthplace of Blessed Sister Maria Gabriella Sagheddu. The “sister” is a key figure in Catholicism, an international ecumenical icon and promoter of inter-religious dialogue. Worship of the blessed sister magically coexists on a territory with many cultural and natural attractions, especially around the seaside resort of Cala Gonone – from Bue Marino Grottoes to Cala Luna.

History and archaeology, traditions and the art of manufacturing, an enchanting sea and the wild mountains of Supramonte, covered in fragrant woodland, will take visitors into a magical and mythical world. Dorgali boasts a natural heritage of 225 square kilometres, one of the largest and most beautiful municipal territories in Sardinia. The characteristic streets of the old town are lined with houses built from volcanic rock and workshops where filigree jewellery, pottery and carpets highlight the town's artisan calling. The Church of San Lussurio, the Church of Madonna d’Itria and the parish Church of Santa Caterina bear witness to the deep devotion of the town's citizens. The archaeological museum takes visitors on a journey back in time with artefacts from the Nuragic Age (in particular, from the Nuragic village-sanctuary of Serra Òrrios) and the Punic and Roman Eras. Meanwhile, nature, traditions and culture come together in S’Abba Frisca park-museum and just few kilometres from the town, visitors can take an excursion to Lanaittu Valley, crossing the mythical village of Tiscali, a defensive fortress against the advance of the Romans.

Just outside the town, after a short tunnel that is like a gateway between the mountains and the sea, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the Gulf of Orosei. A charming and winding descent leads to the village of Cala Gonone, famous for its small inlets and coves that attract nature and adventure lovers and are the ideal destination for romantic boat trips. The village is on a steep hillside that drops to the sea, with the golden sandy beaches of Cala Cartoe, Ziu Martine and Cala Osalla. Either by sea or after a demanding, but pleasant trek is Cala Luna that borders with Baunei; surrounded by an oleander wood, this is one of the most enchanting, fine sandy beaches on the Mediterranean and is famous as the setting for the cult film "Swept Away". Further on, visitors reach Codula di Luna, a gorge between steep chalky cliffs surrounded by spectacular centuries-old junipers that have guarded local attractions since time immemorial.

From Cala Gonone, a guided excursion takes visitors to the famous natural caves of Bue Marino Grottoes - a spectacular "forest" of stalagmites and stalactites, once the natural habitat of Mediterranean monk seals, which boasts an underground saltwater lake. The grottoes are the venue for a unique and truly spectacular concert held as part Cala Gonone Jazz festival. On the subject of marine attractions, visitors should also not miss the opportunity to visit the aquarium in the village of Cala Gonone.

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