Orosei is located on the eastern coast of Sardinia, in the Gulf of Orosei, known for its crystal clear sea and its beautiful beaches. Surrounded by volcanic hills covered in Mediterranean vegetation and crossed by the Cedrino river, the area is a paradise to be explored.
The beaches
– Cala Liberotto: it is the nearest beach to Cala Viola Residence, set at just 1.5 kms away. This beach is surrounded by a large pine wood and consists of several different-sized coves bordered by granite rocks. It features golden, slightly coarse sand and a shallow, transparent seabed, perfect for kids.
– Sas Linnas Siccas: several lovely sandy shores punctuated by rocks and Mediterranean vegetation, with a clear and sloping seabed. It is an excellent spot on windy days, thanks to its sheltered position.
– Marina di Orosei: the town beach stretches for about 7 kms, and is divided into four beaches: Isporoddai, Su Barone, Su Petrosu and Osalla, accessible from four different entrances, all made of golden sand and transparent water. It is characterised by a steep slope that results in a deep seabed and particularly suitable for diving. All the beaches are equipped with facilities such as kiosks, bars, sunbed and beach umbrella rentals and parking lots.
– Cala Ginepro: sand dunes, Mediterranean scrub and junipers surround and border this beach. Its white sand and clear sea with a gently sloping seabed are perfect for families with children.
– Sa Curcurica: this beach, tset 15 kms north from Orosei, is bordered by the homonymous pond populated by flamingos and herons. The pine wood that surrounds it is equipped with picnic benches. The soft, golden sand and shallow water make it an ideal place for children.
– Bidderosa: the beach features five coves with crystal clear, turquoise water adorned with junipers, pines and Mediterranean scrub. The beach is part of the Bidderosa Oasis. It is an authentic natural paradise, whose entrance tickets must be booked in advance
Activities:
Orosei has preserved a very fascinating historical centre characterised by narrow alleys and houses made of volcanic stone, where it is possible to admire the ruins of a medieval castle including the tower of Sa Prejone Verza (a tower that was part of the walls that once protected the village) together with the Church of Sant’Antonio and its tower surrounded by old houses.
Strolling throughout the village, visitors can also discover the Don Nanni Guiso museum, where miniature theatres from all over Europe and from various eras are exhibited.
Diving enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to explore the seabed of the marina of Orosei, where the wreck of the KT12, a German warship that sank in th sea during World War II, is now the habitat of fish and seaweed.
The village is also the departure point for excursions to the surrounding area: you can go hiking to the Monte Tuttavista, go kayaking on the Cedrino river, or observe the wildlife in the Bidderosa Park.
In the area of Baunei, you will find the magnificent bays of Cala Luna, Cala Sisine, Cala Biriola, Cala Mariolu and Cala Goloritzè, known for their wonderful clear blue sea. Accessible by boat or via trekking trails, a visit to these coves is a must for anyone spending a holiday in this part of Sardinia. From the port of Orosei and of Cala Gonone (28 kms away) boat trips to the Grotta del Fico and the Grotta del Bue Marino can be booked.
Typical dishes
The cuisine of Orosei and Baronia combines fresh local ingredients from the seaside and the countryside: you can enjoy real clams or sea bass wrapped with wild chard or chicory, or also a salad made with the freshest octopus.
The most popular dishes are: s’irvuzu, made with twelve wild herbs, then flavoured with pork lard; cabbage and ricotta soup; culurzones (filled pasta with potatoes, sheep cheese, garlic and mint); roasted suckling pig or boiled mutton, served with potatoes and onions. Also worth a mention are the vuvusones, fried dough with ham or sausages or sprinkled with sugar.
All these dishes should be paired with an excellent red wine from Baronia.
