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Costa Paradiso: coastal gem on the northern coast of Sardinia
Costa Paradiso, located on the northern coast of Sardinia, is a breathtaking destination with spectacular natural landscapes. Characterized by red cliffs, hidden bays, and crystal-clear waters, it is an ideal spot for lovers of the sea and nature. Among the main attractions are the beaches of Li Cossi and Cala Sarraina, perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the famous Cala Spinosa with its unique rock formations. Diving enthusiasts can explore the seabeds rich in marine flora and fauna. The area also offers opportunities for hiking along scenic trails that lead to stunning sea views. Nearby, there are also interesting archaeological sites such as the nuragic complex of Lu Brandali.
Costa Paradiso boasts a lively nightlife with restaurants, bars, and venues offering Sardinian culinary specialties and a welcoming atmosphere.
It is the perfect place to relax, enjoy the sun, and the peaceful atmosphere of Sardinia, surrounded by a unique and enchanting natural environment.
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Costa Paradiso and the Costa Rossa: where nature meets cinema
Hidden among the granite hills of northern Sardinia, between Santa Teresa di Gallura and Castelsardo, lies one of Italy's most spectacular and unspoiled coasts: Costa Paradiso and its famous Costa Rossa. A stretch of coastline that seems carved by a divine sculptor, where pink granite rocks, secret coves, crystal-clear waters, and fiery sunsets create a landscape that has captivated not only travelers but also international cinema. A paradise in name and in fact, Costa Paradiso is a small world of its own. Its houses, perfectly integrated into the surrounding environment, almost seem to disappear among the rocks. It is a place where one can breathe silence, nature, and authenticity.
The beach of Li Cossi, accessible via a scenic path, is one of the Mediterranean's gems: a golden crescent protected by rocky cliffs, making it a natural refuge perfect for those seeking beauty and tranquility.
But the real protagonist here is the color of the rocks, which light up red at sunset, creating almost unreal scenes. And it is precisely this play of light and matter that has attracted world-renowned directors and artists.
The magic of cinema on the Red Coast
🎬 Black Stallion (1979)
The film directed by Carroll Ballard, produced by Francis Ford Coppola, is a small visual masterpiece. Many of the opening scenes, the most iconic ones in which the boy and the horse are shipwrecked and live on a wild island, were filmed right along the Red Coast, amid pink cliffs and untouched beaches. The landscape, rugged and poetic, managed to create an almost mythical atmosphere, so much so that it is still recognized today by film enthusiasts.
🧜♀️ La Sirenetta (2023, live action Disney)
Disney also chose Sardinia to film some scenes of its highly anticipated live-action version of The Little Mermaid. Several shots were taken right in this area of the northern coast, taking advantage of hidden coves, unique rock formations, and the clear water to recreate the underwater world and the mysterious island where part of the story takes place. A recognition of the pure and unspoiled beauty of the territory.
🎬 Star Wars - Starfighter (2027 Disney-Lucas film)
The mystery that had hung over the Costa Rossa for weeks has finally been revealed: the filming carried out between Trinità d’Agultu, Isola Rossa, and Costa Paradiso in Sardinia was dedicated to Star Wars: Starfighter. This was confirmed by the director himself, Shawn Levy, who revealed the first image of the film in a social media post, showing Ryan Gosling and the young debutant Flynn Gray against the backdrop of the blue Mediterranean.
🏠 The Dome "La cupola" of Antonioni e Monica Vitti
But Costa Paradiso is also a place that holds a curious and fascinating architectural legacy: the dome house of Michelangelo Antonioni and Monica Vitti. Built in the 1970s by the architect Dante Bini, this futuristic residence immersed in wild nature has become a cultural symbol. An artist's retreat far from the world, where two of the most important figures in Italian cinema sought inspiration and peace. Today, the dome (although in a state of abandonment) continues to fuel the myth and attracts curious visitors and enthusiasts from all over the world.
A trip Between Nature and Imagination
Costa Paradiso and the Costa Rossa are not just tourist destinations: they are places of the soul, landscapes that seem straight out of a cinematic dream. Their authentic beauty, at times wild, needs no filters or special effects. And perhaps it is precisely for this reason that cinema has chosen them as natural sets, recognizing in them a timeless charm.
Whether you are a sea lover, a cinema enthusiast, or simply looking for a place to rediscover silence and wonder, this corner of Sardinia will surely surprise you.
Isola Rossa and Castelsardo: where fiery rocks meet the sea
Isola Rossa
It is a beautiful location situated on the renowned Costa Rossa, on the northwestern coast of Sardinia. Characterized by crystal-clear waters and red cliffs that contrast with the turquoise sea, Isola Rossa is a true paradise for lovers of the sea and nature.The main attractions of Isola Rossa include its charming white sandy beach, perfect for relaxing in the sun and swimming in the clear waters. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will appreciate the rich marine life and the fascinating underwater landscapes that surround the area.
Also not to be missed is the enchanting Isola Rossa, from which the town takes its name, with its distinctive Aragonese tower overlooking the sea. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the coast and the sea.
Around Isola Rossa, it is possible to visit other charming places such as Castelsardo, with its medieval castle and the captivating streets of the historic center, and Marinedda Beach, famous for its spectacular sunsets.
Isola Rossa also offers a variety of restaurants and cafés serving delicious Sardinian cuisine and very fresh seafood. With its natural beauty and unique attractions, Isola Rossa is an unmissable destination for anyone looking to experience an unforgettable time in Sardinia.
Exploring Santa Teresa di Gallura: Sardinia's Coastal Gem
Exploring Santa Teresa di Gallura – a picturesque town located in the north of Sardinia, with breathtaking views of the Strait of Bonifacio.
This charming seaside town offers a fascinating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Thanks to the maritime connections, it is possible to easily reach Corsica from here, making Santa Teresa an important transit point between Sardinia and the French island.
The beaches of Santa Teresa di Gallura are among the most beautiful in Sardinia, with white sand, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes. Among the most renowned beaches are Rena Bianca, Cala Spinosa, Cala Grande, and Capo Testa beach, which offer visitors the chance to relax, snorkel, and enjoy the sun in a unique setting.
The crystal-clear sea of Cala Spinosa (Capo Testa)
From June 1, 2024, to access the famous Rena Bianca beach, it is necessary to book a ticket at this link http://lovesantateresa.it/book... where you will also find all the necessary information. This initiative has become necessary to preserve the pink sand, which has already been heavily impacted by wind and tide erosion. For this reason, you will also need to bring mats or microfiber towels, which can be purchased in the numerous shops in the town center or at the ticket office on the beach. Please note, however, that access is paid from June 1 to September 30 each year, and that after 6:00 PM, access is always free, and no ticket is required to spend the day on the beautiful rocks on either side of the beach.
Rena Majore: the coastal gem of Sardinia between serenity, adventure, and crystal-clear waters
Rena Majore, A hidden gem on the wonderful island of Sardinia! This charming village, located on the northwest coast of the island, welcomes you with its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and pristine nature. Perfect for those seeking relaxation and tranquility, Rena Majore offers the opportunity to enjoy water sports, go on nature excursions, or simply relax in the sun and sea. With its authenticity and breathtaking beauty, Rena Majore will captivate you and give you an unforgettable experience in Sardinia.
The Fire in the Ice – The Legend of Captain Howard Blackburn
The ocean was a sheet of liquid steel that morning in January 1883. The leaden sky hung over the bay of Burgeo, off the coast of Newfoundland, and the air stinged like thin blades. Howard Blackburn, a young fisherman from Massachusetts, clutched the oars in his calloused hands, ignoring the cold that bit his fingers. He had the eyes of someone who knows the sea and accepted its harsh rules, but he was not yet ready for what would happen. He had set off with a companion, Tom Welch, aboard a small dory — a fragile rowing boat — to lower his lines. The mother boat, a schooner, had disappeared in the fog and blizzard that suddenly rose. The wind roared like a wounded animal, and the snow enveloped them in a white abyss. By the time they realized they were adrift, it was too late. The frost began its silent work. Howard's hands, soaked and bare, were stiffening.
Every movement was pain. He knew that if he let go of the oars, the boat would drift away and he would die. So he made an impossible decision: to keep his hands wrapped around the oars until they froze in the position necessary to keep rowing. Tom Welch couldn’t make it. He died the second night, wrapped in the silence of ice. Howard, however, kept rowing. Five days. Five nights. Alone, with his companion’s corpse beside him, his fingers turned into rigid claws, his eyes burned from the snow, and his heart clung to one thought: survive. When he finally reached shore at Little River, the few fishermen who found him were speechless. His feet were black. The fingers of his hands were nothing but dead stumps. But Howard was smiling. He was alive. The doctors couldn’t save his fingers: they amputated all ten and part of his feet. But the boy who had challenged death with outstretched arms didn’t give up.
He returned to Gloucester, opened a bar, and became known for his indomitable spirit. But the sea still called him.
And so, without fingers, with hands reduced to stumps and scars, he built a boat of his own. He sailed the Atlantic alone, reached Europe. He became a legend in the ports, in sailors’ tales, in the newspapers. They called him "the sea wolf without claws," but the truth was that Howard Blackburn had more strength than anyone else who had ever faced the ocean.
He died in 1932, with the sea outside his window and his boat always ready in the harbor. He was a man whom fate had wanted to break, but who had only bent to steer the helm.
Today, his name is engraved in the hearts of those who love the sea and understand the meaning of the word resilience.
Viddalba: an authentic corner of northern Sardinia
In the heart of Gallura, Viddalba is a peaceful town immersed in nature, perfect for those who want to enjoy a relaxing holiday away from mass tourism and discover an authentic side of Sardinia.
The Area
Located in the plain of the Coghinas River, Viddalba is surrounded by a unique landscape, where lush hills, cultivated fields, and the picturesque river course alternate. This area is renowned for its natural thermal baths and for the ancient traditions that can still be felt today in its villages.
The nearby beaches
Just a few kilometers from Viddalba, you can find some of the most beautiful beaches on the northern coast:
• Baia delle Mimose: a long stretch of golden sand with crystal-clear waters, ideal for families and relaxation lovers.
• Spiaggia di Badesi: perfect for those seeking peace, with fine sandy dunes and unspoiled nature.
• Isola Rossa: a small gem with white sandy beaches and red rocks plunging into the turquoise sea.
• Spiaggia di Valledoria: an ideal destination for water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the favorable winds.
What to see in the surroundings
Viddalba is also an ideal starting point for exploring the historical and natural treasures of Gallura:
• Casteldoria Thermal Baths: just a few minutes from Viddalba, these thermal springs offer a unique wellness experience, with warm waters rich in therapeutic properties.
• Doria Castle: located in Castelsardo, it is an impressive medieval fortress that offers breathtaking views of the sea.
• Viddalba Archaeological Area: for history enthusiasts, the remains from Roman and Nuragic times, including ancient baths and giant tombs, are a must-see.
• Coghinas River Park: a protected natural area, perfect for kayaking trips or hiking along the river.
Authentic Experiences
In Viddalba, you can immerse yourself in Sardinian culture through its festivals and traditional dishes, such as porceddu, malloreddus alla campidanese, and local cheeses. Don't miss the local markets, where you can buy handmade products and gourmet delicacies.
Conclusion
With its mix of nature, culture, and tradition, Viddalba is a destination that enchants and surprises. Perfect for those looking for a vacation of tranquility and authenticity, it offers a unique experience in the heart of the most authentic Sardinia.
