ASD Amatori Rugby Capoterra

Going from East to West, we immediately come across islets, united with terra firma by the typical strand of sand, called “S’isola manna” or "su Cardolinu", famous for their excavations, the products of which were transported to the ancient Phoenician city of Bithia, one of the most important archealogical sites of Southern Sardinia.

Probably first settled by the nuragic peoples from the 8th century B.C., becoming then a Pheonician city, then Carthaginian and finally Roman, being a intermediate port of call which linked the circumnavigation routes between the city of Nora and Karalis and that of Sulki.
Like all the other Southern coastal cities, the ancient age saw its progressive decline, ending in abandonment in the late medieval period, when the populace retreated to the centre of the island to get away from the incursions of the Arabs.

From ancient Bithia there remains today, brought to light by excavations, evidence of two temples, a Tophet (Pheonician cemetery) and other habitation.

The principal part of the settlement was located on the islet of Su Cardulini, the rest on the promontory of Chia. Following along the coast we come across the small harbour of Chia, characteristic for its circular shape and the way the water in the bay immediately becomes deep. Truly a natural landing place.

Progressing further with our exploration, we find a panorama to enjoy, despite being short of breath after climbing the promontory of la Torre dl Chia. Erected in1639, the tower was part of the defensive network composed of the coastal towers organized by the Spanish Crown to counter the incursions of the Barbary pirates and each was equipped with two cannons.

La Torre di Chia became in time to be the symbol of Chia, it being visible from all the beaches.  Also at night when the light reflects off the sea, creating a picture even more atmospheric. The Tower of Chia promontory divides the small harbour from the marvellous beach of Chia called “Sa Colonia”. This beach consists of a golden sandy shore that extends for about one kilometre to its extremity, Monte Cogoni In the central part, at the shoulder of the beach one can also visit  some tombs which were a part of ancient Bithia. A little to the west, always just over the shoulder of the beach extends the “lo stagno (pool) di Chia”.

Here, between bulrushes and beds of reeds, it is possible to admire the pink flamingoes in the company of herons, coots, seagulls and cormorants in a wild scene that is characteristic of the area.

Beyond Monte Cogoni we find an enchanting little bay, "la spiaggia del morto", (Dead man’s Beach) called thus because of a cross situated amongst the rocks...

The cove, which can only be reached on foot, is surrounded by centuries old juniper, lentisco plants, rock-rose bushes and pines, both Mediterranean and perennial taking refuge from the winds, the maestrale (from the North) and the Levante (from the East)...

Immediately after, we find the extensive beach of Porto Campagna, the main features of which are its sand dunes, its dense growth of macchia, and most of all for its wild white lilies, which emanate an intense scent which fills the air.

After traversing a small rocky promontory, we then come across the most beautiful and extensive beach of the whole of the coast of Southwest Sardinia. The beach  "Su Giudeu",which takes its name from the islet which is immediately offshore from the beach. The islet is accessible on foot, or with a brief swim after high tide. and a stop for a while is almost obligatory for tourists or even regular visitors, because there is a breathtaking panorama to enjoy from the top of the islet. This beach is less known under the name of  “S'Acqua Dulci” (sweet water), because at the far end there is a pool of brackish water which lasts all summer long attracting a multicloured collection of the local fauna, the pink flamingo ruling the roost.

It’s between this beach and another , almost equally liked to try, excuse the play on words, by Capoterra Rugby Team. It’s not difficult in fact to witness, comfortably sat in your deckchair, or participating in for those who so desire, a game of beach rugby. Then as tradition will have it, the “terzo tempo” (after-match party) and a beautiful plunge in the crystalline water.

The next cove we come across is the famous “Cala Cipolla”. It is small but very beautiful, hemmed  by pines and juniper, accessible only on foot – a walk of only five minutes.

Our tour ends with at the lighthouse of Cape Spartivento, the most southerly point of western Sardinia after Cape Teulada. The view to be enjoyed from the lighthouse is truly exceptional. On one hand, looking towards the West we have Cape Malafanto and Cape Teulada, and on the other hand looking towards the East, we can see the marvellous Bay of Chia which has kept us company throughout this virtual excursion.

What more is there to say?

Chia represent surely a unique opportunity for an unrepeatable holiday by the sea immersed in nature and tranquility.

An ultimate dream:

To be rocked to sleep in the breath of the sea, lying down on the soft sand, looking at the stars whilst being cradled in the song of the grillos and the cicadas, is probably one the most beautiful experiences one could ever have.