Co’e Cuaddus (Coaquaddus) in Sant’Antioco: a guide to the beach, cliffs, Turri and the surrounding area

The name itself also tells something about the coastline. Co’e Cuaddus means “horses’ tails” and is associated with the sinuous shape of the shore, where headlands and small coves follow one another, creating an irregular coastal profile.

What is Co’e Cuaddus beach like?

The beach of Co’e Cuaddus is long and sandy and is visually divided into two sections by a large rock formation. The sandy shore is predominantly dark in colour, due to the erosion of volcanic rocks found on the island. This contrast between the sand, dark minerals and clear water is one of the most distinctive features of the bay.

The sea takes on shades that, as the light changes, range from blue to turquoise and green. The seabed is predominantly sandy and remains shallow for many metres from the shore. For this reason, Coaquaddus is also popular with families with children, although it is always important to assess the wind, waves and sea conditions before entering the water.

The beach also offers some of the most sought-after services for a day by the sea. There is a parking area, food and refreshment facilities, beach services and walkways that make access to the beach easier. Availability and service arrangements may vary throughout the year, so before visiting it is advisable to check the latest information provided by the Municipality and the service operators.

Why are the cliffs of Coaquaddus so distinctive?

To truly understand Co’e Cuaddus, it is also important to observe the rocks surrounding the beach.

To the north, light-coloured limestone cliffs predominate; towards the south, darker volcanic formations appear. Within just a few kilometres, the colour of the rock changes, the shape of the coastline changes, and the character of the small coves gradually changes as well.

It is a small open-air geology lesson. You do not need to know the composition of the rocks to notice the difference: simply follow the coastline. The light-coloured cliffs in the northern section gradually give way to volcanic rocks, which become increasingly evident as you move towards Turri.

This transition can be observed particularly well from the sea. A short exploration by canoe or paddleboard makes it possible to follow the coastline and approach the cliffs while maintaining a safe distance. Snorkelling is also interesting in the rocky areas, where the seabed becomes more varied than in the central, sandy part of the bay.

Before moving away from the shore, it is always important to check the wind and sea conditions and assess your own level of preparation.

Another distinctive feature is the view. Looking across the Gulf of Palmas, on the clearest days the view can extend to the opposite coast and the dunes of Porto Pino. This perspective helps to understand the position of Co’e Cuaddus within the broader marine landscape of the Sulcis area.

From Co’e Cuaddus to Turri and Torre Canai

Continuing south, the landscape of Coaquaddus leads towards Turri and Torre Canai. The distance is short, but the change in the landscape is clearly visible. The sandy beach gradually gives way to a rocky coastline. Volcanic formations become dominant, and the silhouette of Torre Canai appears on the headland overlooking the Gulf of Palmas.

The bay of Turri is a small cove usually characterised by dark pebbles. However, its appearance can change. The movement of the sea and sediments can alter the shoreline and, in some seasons or years, create deposits of lighter-coloured sand. The beach therefore provides an easily observable example of a coastal environment in constant transformation.

Above the coast stands Torre Canai, a historic watchtower built in the 18th century to monitor the Gulf of Palmas. The monument is located on a headland where remains of an earlier Nuragic settlement are also present. Nature, archaeology and the history of coastal defence therefore overlap in the same place.

From the area around the tower, the view extends across much of the Gulf of Palmas and, offshore, to the islets of Vacca and Toro.

Co’e Cuaddus and Turri thus reveal two different aspects of the same coastline: the former is dominated by its wide sandy beach, the colours of the sea and the surrounding hills; the latter is rockier and more secluded, characterised by volcanic formations and the presence of Torre Canai.

Archaeology near Co’e Cuaddus: Grutti ’e Acqua and Su Niu de Su Crobu

The area around Co’e Cuaddus tells not only the natural history of the island. Moving inland, visitors enter a landscape that was already used and organised by people during the Nuragic age.

One of the most important sites is the Nuragic complex of Grutti ’e Acqua, located west of the Canai plain. The site is particularly complex: it includes the remains of a complex nuraghe, a corridor nuraghe, a tholos nuraghe, numerous huts and several structures associated with water collection.

Water itself is one of the most interesting elements of the complex. The area contains a basin known as the “Nuragic pond”, while further downstream there is a sacred well temple. These structures suggest that the availability and management of water played an important role in the life of the community and, probably, also in its ritual practices.

A short distance away is the giants’ tomb of Su Niu de Su Crobu, a collective funerary monument attributed to the Nuragic civilisation and the best-preserved giants’ tomb on the island, associated with the community that lived in the Grutti ’e Acqua area.

These monuments help us understand that the southern part of Sant’Antioco was already organised long before the Phoenician period. The sea, which today is the main tourist attraction, was part of a territory used by communities that built villages, funerary monuments and places connected with the management and worship of water.

Why visit Co’e Cuaddus and the surrounding area?

Visiting Co’e Cuaddus means discovering more than just a beach. Within a relatively compact area, you can move from a wide sandy beach and turquoise sea to limestone and volcanic cliffs, from the Mediterranean scrub of Serra is Tres Portus to the rocky coastline of Turri and Torre Canai, and finally to the Nuragic monuments of the inland area.

It is precisely this succession that makes Coaquaddus particularly interesting. Sea, geology, nature, landscape and archaeology are not separate elements, but parts of the same territory.

Coaquaddus should not be considered simply a beautiful beach in Sant’Antioco. It is also a starting point for exploring the nature and landscape of the southern part of the island.

Heading south, you reach Turri and Torre Canai. Here, the sandy beach gradually gives way to a rockier coastline, characterised by volcanic formations and dominated by the coastal tower built in the 18th century to monitor the Gulf of Palmas. A little further on, the landscape leads towards Capo Sperone, one of the most natural areas at the southern end of Sant’Antioco, characterised by rocky terrain, Mediterranean scrub and wide views over the sea.

Serra is Tres Portus also helps explain the natural value of the area. The hill is part of a protected natural environment and can be explored along a nature trail that connects the Maladroxia area with Co’e Cuaddus. Along the route, visitors encounter Mediterranean scrub, archaeological remains and views over the Gulf of Palmas.

Moving inland, the natural landscape also reveals a very ancient human history. The southern part of Sant’Antioco preserves important evidence of the Nuragic civilisation, making it possible to combine a day by the sea with the discovery of the island’s archaeology and rural landscape.

What is Co’e Cuaddus beach like?

Co’e Cuaddus, also known as Coaquaddus or Coacuaddus, is one of the most distinctive beaches on the island of Sant’Antioco. (photo: La Pintadera Sarda)

Co’e Cuaddus beach is a wide sandy stretch on the south-eastern coast of the island of Sant’Antioco. Around the bay, the landscape retains a strong natural character: low hills covered with Mediterranean scrub descend towards the sea and end in headlands and cliffs that enclose the beach.

The sea is one of the first elements that attracts attention. Depending on the light and weather conditions, the water shifts from blue to turquoise and even green tones. In the sections closest to the shore, the clarity of the water often makes it possible to observe the predominantly sandy seabed.

The sand also reveals something about the natural character of the island. The beach at Co’e Cuaddus does not have the same colours throughout. The sand takes on different dark shades, linked to the erosion of the volcanic rocks found in the area.

It is an apparently minor detail that introduces the geology of the Sant’Antioco coastline.

Why are the cliffs of Coaquaddus so distinctive?

To understand what makes the cliffs of Co’e Cuaddus distinctive, it is enough to shift your gaze from one end of the bay to the other.

To the north of the beach, light-coloured limestone cliffs predominate. Towards the south, darker rock formations of ancient volcanic origin appear instead. The transition is evident and is also highlighted by the Municipality and the official tourism portal of Sant’Antioco.

Within just a few kilometres, the geological landscape changes noticeably. The colour and nature of the rocks change, but so do the profile of the headlands and the character of the small coves. To the north, the light tones of limestone prevail; moving south, the coast gradually takes on the darker, volcanic character that becomes even more evident in the Turri area.

It is like observing two different chapters in the natural history of Sant’Antioco within the same landscape. Co’e Cuaddus is one of the places where the geology of the island becomes immediately visible to visitors.

This contrast can also be appreciated from the sea. A canoe or paddleboard makes it possible, when sea conditions are favourable, to follow the profile of the bay and see more clearly the differences between the northern and southern cliffs. The rocky areas can also be interesting for snorkelling, always checking the wind and sea conditions in advance and considering your own level of experience.

Co’e Cuaddus: free beach, beach club and services

Co’e Cuaddus is a free-access beach where visitors can find a beach club, kiosks, food and refreshment facilities, parking and walkways providing access to the beach. This combination allows visitors to spend the day at the beach independently while also having the option to use some of the services available nearby.

Those who prefer the free beach at Coaquaddus can bring their own beach umbrella and equipment and use the freely accessible areas. Those looking for greater comfort can instead use the beach club and kiosks in the area, allowing them to spend more time on the coast without having to leave the bay.

A useful feature is the walkways that make it easier to reach the beach and extend down to the sea. This makes access to the sandy shore easier than on completely natural stretches of coastline without facilities.

The presence of services does not alter the scenic character of Co’e Cuaddus. The sea, the hills covered with Mediterranean scrub, Serra is Tres Portus and the cliffs that border the bay remain the dominant features around the beach. It is the balance between free beach, beach services and natural environment that makes Coaquaddus suitable both for families and for those who want to spend an entire day on the coast of Sant’Antioco.

Co’e Cuaddus is located on the south-eastern coast of the island of Sant’Antioco, in the Sulcis area of south-western Sardinia. (photo: La Pintadera Sarda)

At Co’e Cuaddus, it is also possible to explore the coast from the sea by snorkelling, canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding. The clarity of the water, the predominantly sandy seabed and the presence of rocky areas make it possible to observe the bay from a different perspective from the one offered by the beach.

Canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are interesting ways to follow the profile of the coastline and the cliffs that border Coaquaddus. Heading north, you mainly encounter light-coloured limestone formations. Towards the south, darker volcanic rocks appear, anticipating the landscape of the Turri coastline.

From the sea, this geological difference is clearly visible. The colour of the rocks, the shape of the headlands and the appearance of the small coves all change. A short excursion along the bay can therefore also be a simple way to better understand the geology of the Sant’Antioco coastline.

In the areas where sand and rock alternate, snorkelling with a mask and snorkel also makes it possible to observe the coastal seabed more closely. It is particularly suitable for those who want to explore the marine environment without moving too far from the shore.

Sea conditions must always be assessed before entering the water. Wind, waves and currents can change during the day and make apparently simple activities more demanding.

Geology of Co’e Cuaddus: limestone cliffs and volcanic rocks in Sant’Antioco

Within just a few kilometres, the colour of the rock changes, the shape of the coastline changes, and the character of the small coves gradually changes as well. (photo: La Pintadera Sarda)

The cliffs of Co’e Cuaddus are distinctive. The difference is evident even without any knowledge of geology. To the north, the coastline is predominantly light in colour and is characterised by carbonate rocks. Moving south, however, the outcrops gradually become darker and volcanic rocks appear, also characterising the next stretch of coastline towards Turri.

Behind an apparently simple change in colour lie phases of the Earth’s history separated by millions of years.

The carbonate rocks found in the south-eastern part of Sant’Antioco reveal an ancient Cretaceous marine environment. In the area associated with Serra is Tres Portus, limestones and carbonate deposits have been documented, formed when the geography of this part of the Mediterranean was profoundly different from what it is today.

Many millions of years later, south-western Sardinia underwent a new and important geological phase. Between the Oligocene and Miocene, intense volcanic activity developed, linked to the complex evolution of the western Mediterranean. On the island of Sant’Antioco, particularly in its southern sector, rocks such as andesites and basaltic andesites are present, formed by these ancient magmatic processes.

Co’e Cuaddus is therefore located close to the meeting point between two different geological landscapes. On one side, sedimentary rocks formed in ancient seas can be observed; on the other, rocks linked to a later volcanic past appear. Their composition and colour change, but so do the shapes of the cliffs, headlands and small coves.

This geological history continues to be reshaped by natural forces. The sea, wind and rain slowly erode the rocks, break down their surfaces and transport material along the coast. According to the official tourism portal, the small dark grains found in some areas of the sand at Coaquaddus are also linked to the erosion of volcanic rocks. Geology therefore helps explain the appearance of the beach. What we see today is the result of the continuous interaction between rocks, sea, wind and sediments.

Serra is Tres Portus: nature, geology and hiking near Coaquaddus

Serra is Tres Portus is one of the main natural areas to explore near Co’e Cuaddus. It extends between Maladroxia and Coaquaddus, in the south-eastern part of the island of Sant’Antioco, and forms a natural link between the sea, the beaches, Mediterranean scrub and the inland hills. It is a complex landscape where nature, geology, archaeology and the history of human activities can all be observed along the same route.

Serra is Tres Portus is now a Special Area of Conservation within the Natura 2000 Network, identified by the code ITB042220. The protected area covers approximately 260 hectares and includes terrestrial and coastal environments of particular importance for the conservation of Mediterranean habitats.

Why is Serra is Tres Portus geologically important?

Geology explains much of the appearance of Serra is Tres Portus. The hill is mainly composed of Mesozoic carbonate rocks. Jurassic and Cretaceous successions have been documented in this area, while Cretaceous limestones formed in ancient marine environments are particularly evident around Serra is Tres Portus and Maladroxia.

It is difficult to imagine this when looking today at the Mediterranean scrub and the Gulf of Palmas, but these rocks tell the story of a completely different landscape, shaped millions of years ago in an ancient marine environment.

This geological history is also connected to Co’e Cuaddus beach. The light-coloured limestone rocks that characterise the northern part of the bay are part of a geological setting that differs from the darker volcanic formations that appear as you move south, towards Turri.

Serra is Tres Portus helps to explain what can already be perceived from the beach: Sant’Antioco is an island where rocks of different origins and ages meet within very short distances.

Which plants can be seen at Serra is Tres Portus?

The vegetation of Serra is Tres Portus is typically Mediterranean and is adapted to demanding environmental conditions: intense sunlight, wind, rocky terrain and periods of limited water availability.

One of the most significant species is the Phoenicean juniper, also known as turbinated juniper. Regional environmental studies identify Serra is Tres Portus as one of the areas on the island of Sant’Antioco with the best-preserved communities of turbinated juniper, with specimens that can reach tree-like dimensions in the most sheltered areas.

Along the route, other characteristic species of Mediterranean scrub are also reported, including dwarf fan palm, everlasting, broom and wild lavender.

Of particular interest is also Ophrys × maladroxiensis. This is a rare natural orchid hybrid, scientifically described in 1992 from specimens collected in the Maladroxia area. Its name therefore preserves a direct link with this small area of the island of Sant’Antioco.

What can you see along the Serra is Tres Portus nature trail?

The easiest way to explore Serra is Tres Portus is to follow the approximately 1.5-kilometre nature trail that crosses the hill through Mediterranean scrub. It is not simply a walk in nature. Along the route, visitors can see the remains of a corridor nuraghe, evidence of the prehistoric use of the area, and some 20th-century kilns used for lime production. Within just a few hundred metres, the route therefore moves from the geological history of the rocks to the Nuragic presence and then to productive activities from the modern era.

The trail offers wide views over the Gulf of Palmas and the south-eastern coast of Sant’Antioco. On clear days, the islets of Vacca and Toro can also be seen offshore.

One of the most interesting aspects is that the trail forms part of a nature route connecting Maladroxia and Co’e Cuaddus. The two beaches are coastal points linked by the same system of hills, vegetation and natural landscapes.

Why is Serra is Tres Portus important for Coaquaddus?

Serra is Tres Portus helps to show that Co’e Cuaddus is more than just a beach. The sandy shore is part of a broader system in which the sea, cliffs, rocks, Mediterranean scrub and hills are closely connected.

From the beach, it is enough to look inland to see the landscape rise and change. The sea gives way to rocks, vegetation spreads across the hills, and the landscape preserves evidence of human presence from very different historical periods.

Visiting Serra is Tres Portus therefore helps visitors gain a fuller understanding of Coaquaddus. A day at the beach can be combined with a walk through the Mediterranean scrub, observation of the limestone rocks, and the discovery of coastal plants and archaeological remains.

This continuity between the beach and the inland area is one of the most interesting features of the south-eastern part of Sant’Antioco.

The presence of the Special Area of Conservation is also a reminder that this landscape is fragile. Walking along existing trails, avoiding damage to vegetation and not collecting plants, rocks, sand or other natural elements means helping to preserve an environment whose value lies precisely in the continuity between nature, geology and landscape.

Coaquaddus: geology, landscape and archaeology in southern Sant’Antioco

At Co’e Cuaddus, it is also possible to explore the coast from the sea by snorkelling, canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). (photo: La Pintadera Sarda)

Coaquaddus is much more than just a beach: in this part of the island of Sant’Antioco, sea, geology, nature and archaeology can all be observed within the same landscape. Continuing south, you reach Turri, where the volcanic character of the landscape is clearly visible. The coast becomes rockier, small coves appear, and Torre Canai rises on the headland, one of the most recognisable monuments in the southern part of the island. The tower was built in 1757 for surveillance and defence of the Gulf of Palmas. However, it stands above an earlier Nuragic site, traces of which are still visible among the surrounding vegetation.

The journey through history continues inland. Here lies the Nuragic complex of Grutti ’e Acqua, one of the main archaeological sites in the central-southern part of Sant’Antioco. The area preserves the remains of nuraghi, huts and structures connected with water collection, as well as a sacred well temple. A short distance away is the giants’ tomb of Su Niu de Su Crobu, a collective funerary monument associated with the Nuragic civilisation.

These places show that the landscape around Coaquaddus was used and organised by people long before the development of today’s seaside resorts. Nuragic communities made use of the plains, hills and inland water resources, leaving behind monuments that still help us understand the landscape today.

Visiting Co’e Cuaddus means travelling, within just a few kilometres, through millions of years of natural history and thousands of years of human presence. The rocks tell the story of the island’s formation; the nuraghi and tombs tell the story of the communities that inhabited it; Torre Canai bears witness to a much more recent phase in the history of coastal defence.

Turri consists of three coves, each with different characteristics. (photo: La Pintadera Sarda)

Turri is located south of Coaquaddus and is one of the most interesting stretches of the southern coast of Sant’Antioco for those who enjoy small coves, cliffs and natural landscapes. Within just a few kilometres, the wide sandy beach of Co’e Cuaddus gradually gives way to a rockier coastline, shaped into small coves and headlands covered with Mediterranean scrub.

This change is what makes it interesting to continue the visit from Coaquaddus towards Turri. The sea remains the main feature, but the landscape takes on a different character: the rocks become more prominent, the beaches become smaller and more secluded, and the volcanic coastline leads the eye towards the headland of Torre Canai.

What are the three coves of Turri like?

Turri consists of three coves with different characteristics. The first is located on the eastern side of Capo Su Moru and is a small crescent-shaped cove, sheltered by high rocky cliffs. The beach is made up of golden sand mixed with small pebbles.

A short distance away is a second stretch, characterised by lighter-coloured sand mixed with dark pebbles smoothed by the movement of the sea. Continuing west, you finally reach the third cove, which is wider and mainly covered with larger pebbles.

This variety makes Turri different from the large sandy beaches of Sant’Antioco. Along a short stretch of coastline, the size of the coves, the composition of the beach and the relationship between rock and sea all change.

The appearance of these small beaches can also change over time. Storm waves and the natural movement of sediments can shift sand and pebbles, making a cove look different from one season or year to another.

What is the sea like at Turri and can you go snorkelling?

The sea at Turri is generally clear and takes on shades ranging from turquoise to deeper blue, with green tones in areas where Mediterranean scrub reaches very close to the coastline.

As always along a rocky coast, it is important to assess sea conditions before entering the water and to pay attention to wind, waves and access points.

Is Turri an equipped beach?

Turri is more natural and has fewer facilities than Coaquaddus. The small coves do not offer the same concentration of beach clubs and refreshment facilities found on the main beach. Those planning to spend several hours there should therefore bring water and everything they need for the day.

Access to the coves is also possible via short trails that run along the cliffs. It is important to use the existing paths, avoid exposed sections and wear suitable footwear where the terrain becomes uneven.

Torre Canai dominates the landscape of Turri

What makes Turri immediately recognisable is Torre Canai, also known as Torre Cannai, built in 1757 on the Su Moru headland. The tower was originally built as a lookout and defensive post, allowing the Gulf of Palmas to be monitored and any dangers approaching from the sea to be signalled.

Its position explains its original function. From the headland, the view opens across much of the Gulf of Palmas, the southern cliffs of Sant’Antioco and towards the islets that rise offshore from the southern end of the island.

Torre Canai therefore adds a historical dimension to the visit. The landscape tells not only the story of the sea and geology, but also of the strategic role this coastline played for centuries in monitoring sea routes and defending the island’s communities.

Turri is therefore a natural continuation of the itinerary that begins at Coaquaddus. Within a relatively short distance, the landscape changes from the wide sandy beach to the three small coves of Turri, from volcanic cliffs to Mediterranean scrub, and finally to the tower overlooking the Gulf of Palmas.

Torre Canai: history, archaeology and views over the Turri coastline

Torre Canai was part of the coastal defence system developed during the Savoy period to protect Sant’Antioco. (photo: La Pintadera Sarda)

Torre Canai is a historic coastal tower located above the coves of Turri, south of Coaquaddus, in the southern part of the island of Sant’Antioco. Built in 1757 to a design by the Piedmontese military engineer Vallin, it dominates the Su Moru headland and the Gulf of Palmas. Its elevated position immediately explains the purpose for which it was built: to observe the sea and signal any dangers approaching from the coast.

Torre Canai was part of the coastal defence system developed during the Savoy period. Its main function was surveillance and communication with the military units responsible for protecting Sant’Antioco. The tower played a role during the French invasion attempt of 1793 and during the last Tunisian raids that affected the island in 1812 and 1815.

The tower was also equipped with artillery, a feature that was not common to all coastal structures of this type. From the headland, it was possible to monitor the Gulf of Palmas, sea routes and coastal activities, including areas associated with salt production and fishing.

Torre Canai stands on an earlier Nuragic site

One of the most interesting aspects of Torre Canai, however, lies beneath and around the 18th-century structure. It appears that the tower stands on a pre-existing Nuragic site. Among the vegetation covering the headland, remains of the ancient settlement can still be recognised. The site was therefore used and frequented long before the construction of the Savoy fortification.

This detail makes the Su Moru headland particularly significant. In the same place, Nuragic civilisation and the history of the coastal defence of Sant’Antioco overlap, separated by thousands of years.

The elevated position that allowed the sea to be monitored in the 18th century must also have been significant in earlier periods. Today, this overlap allows visitors to understand Torre Canai as part of a landscape used by people during very different historical periods.

What does Torre Canai look like?

Torre Canai has the structural features typical of many coastal fortifications in Sardinia. The main body is truncated-cone shaped, topped by a cylindrical section. Inside, there is a large circular room with windows, while a staircase leads to the upper level, where the parade ground was located. From this level, the view opens over the Gulf of Palmas and the southern coast of Sant’Antioco. The shape of the building was determined not by aesthetic requirements, but by military ones. The thickness of the walls, the position of the entrance, the internal space and the upper terrace were all designed for surveillance and defence.

From the deterioration to the restoration of Torre Canai

The history of Torre Canai did not end with the loss of its military function. During the 20th century, the building was granted to a private individual and converted into a summer residence. The alterations significantly changed some parts of the original structure, with the addition of new rooms on the terrace and modifications to the interior spaces.

In 1988, a new phase began. Italia Nostra obtained the concession for the monument and took part, together with the Superintendency and the Ministry of the Environment, in a major restoration project. Several modern additions were removed and elements of the historic structure were restored, including the battlements, cistern, sentry box and internal vault.

Why visit Torre Canai near Coaquaddus?

Torre Canai is worth visiting because it brings together archaeology, military history, nature and coastal views in the same place.

From the headland, visitors can see the Gulf of Palmas, the southern cliffs of Sant’Antioco and the open sea towards the Sardinia Channel. Local tourism sources also mention the islands of Vacca and Toro as part of the view.

Below the tower are also the coves of Turri, which are very different from the wide sandy beach of Coaquaddus. Here, the landscape becomes rockier, the volcanic formations become more prominent and small coves open between the Mediterranean scrub and the sea.

The coves of Turri below Torre Canai

The small beaches of Turri retain a more natural character and have fewer facilities than Co’e Cuaddus. Their appearance is not always the same: the movement of the sea can alter the distribution of sand and pebbles, so some coves may appear sandier in certain seasons and more pebbly in others.

The seabed also reflects this variety. Sand and rocks alternate close to the shore, making the area interesting for snorkelling with a mask and snorkel.

The coves have fewer services than nearby Coaquaddus. It is therefore advisable to bring water and everything you may need, wear suitable footwear on rocky sections, and always check the wind, waves and sea conditions before entering the water.

The Coaquaddus–Turri–Torre Canai route makes it possible to observe, within just a few kilometres, how the landscape of Sant’Antioco changes. From the wide beach, the route leads to volcanic cliffs and small coves; from the natural landscape, it reaches a site used during the Nuragic period and later transformed, thousands of years afterwards, into a strategic point for the defence of the island.

Capo Sperone in Sant’Antioco: nature, cliffs and the former signal station

The sea is one of the most striking features. Depending on the light and weather conditions, the water shifts from blue to turquoise and even green tones. (photo: La Pintadera Sarda)

Capo Sperone is the southernmost point of the island of Sant’Antioco and one of the most interesting natural and scenic places to visit when continuing from Coaquaddus towards Turri and Torre Canai. Here, the landscape changes once again: beaches gradually give way to cliffs, rocky headlands, small coves and wide-open views over the sea.

The area is part of the Special Protection Area “Isola di Sant’Antioco, Capo Sperone”, identified by the Natura 2000 code ITB043032. The terrain is rugged and rocky, while the Mediterranean scrub is adapted to intense sunlight, wind and proximity to the sea. The cliffs are particularly prominent on the western side; along the rest of the coast, rocky walls alternate with small coves and sandy stretches.

In the Capo Sperone area, volcanic rocks associated with the ancient volcanism of the Sulcis region are exposed. Marine erosion has helped reveal some of these formations, gradually shaping a rugged and irregular coastline.

From the headland, the view stretches across the Gulf of Palmas and reaches some of the natural landmarks of the sea around Sant’Antioco: the island of Vacca, with the nearby Vitello rock, and, further away, the island of Toro. These small stretches of land complete one of the most recognisable views from the southern end of the island.

For those following an itinerary from Co’e Cuaddus, Capo Sperone therefore represents much more than an additional stop. Within just a few kilometres, it is possible to observe how the coast of Sant’Antioco changes, moving from the wide sandy beach of Coaquaddus to the volcanic rocks of Turri, from Torre Canai to the more rugged and open landscape of the southern headland.

What is the former signal station at Capo Sperone?

On the summit of the hill known as Su Monti de su Semafuru, at about 175 metres above sea level, are the remains of the former Capo Sperone signal station, commonly known as the former semaphore station.

The location was not chosen by chance. From this elevated position, it was possible to monitor a vast area of sea, observe passing vessels and communicate with them through signalling systems.

The station was built in 1886 by Giuseppe Mosca, a contractor and surveyor from Cagliari, and formed part of a coastal communications network used to transmit signals between the mainland and ships.

The original complex included accommodation for the signalmen, service areas, offices and a circular section with small windows for observing the sea. A staircase led to the semaphore tower, where the signalling systems were installed and, later, equipment for radio communications.

The architecture of the former signal station

The building itself also tells part of the story of Sant’Antioco.

The walls were built mainly with basalt blocks, while squared blocks of trachyte were used for the corners. These rocks are directly linked to the complex volcanic history of the island and the Sulcis area.

The building was arranged over two levels. A long corridor divided the interior spaces: service areas and the kitchen were located on one side, while the offices were on the other. A granite staircase led to the radio transmission office, while a second access route led to the lookout tower.

The station was therefore designed as a fully operational structure: living quarters, observation and communication functions were all brought together within the same building.

What role did Capo Sperone play during the World Wars?

The strategic position of the headland made the former signal station particularly important during both World Wars.

In April 1918, during the First World War, the German submarine UB 48 shelled the station. The attack damaged the antenna used for communications.

During the Second World War, Capo Sperone became part of the naval and aerial surveillance network established by the Royal Italian Navy along the coasts of Sardinia. Its role was to collect and transmit information on movements observed at sea and in the air.

In 1943, German Luftwaffe technicians installed a Freya radar near the station for the early detection of Allied air formations approaching from North Africa. After the armistice, during the German withdrawal, the radar installation was dismantled.

After the war, the former signal station continued to perform operational functions for some time. However, the gradual development of new technologies made the traditional signalling system increasingly unnecessary. The station ceased operations at the end of the 1950s and has been inactive since 1958.

Why visit Capo Sperone near Coaquaddus?

Visiting Capo Sperone makes it possible to experience nature, geology, landscape and military history in the same place. The position chosen more than a century ago to monitor the sea is today a privileged vantage point for understanding the geography of the southernmost part of Sant’Antioco.

It is precisely the connection with Coaquaddus that makes this stretch of coast particularly interesting for a guide to the area. Following the coastline southwards, visitors pass through constantly changing environments: the sand of Co’e Cuaddus, the volcanic rocks and small coves of Turri, Torre Canai, Mediterranean scrub and, finally, the cliffs of Capo Sperone.

The former signal station adds to this landscape the memory of maritime communications and 20th-century military history.

Today, the historic complex is in a fragile state of preservation. Information from the Ministry of Culture indicates that the building can be viewed from the outside, while the route to reach it is signposted and classified as being of medium difficulty. Visitors should not enter deteriorated structures independently or cross any barriers or restricted areas.

Grutti ’e Acqua near Coaquaddus: nuraghi, water worship and a giants’ tomb

Grutti ’e Acqua is one of the main Nuragic complexes on the island of Sant’Antioco and one of the most interesting archaeological sites to combine with a day at Coaquaddus. In the inland area of the central-southern part of the island, a vast archaeological landscape has been preserved, consisting of nuraghi, huts, water-collection structures, a sacred well temple and funerary monuments.

The site extends west of the fertile Canai plain, across a series of hills from which it was possible to observe both the interior of the island and important natural routes towards the coast. This position helps explain why Nuragic communities chose this area to build such a complex settlement.

On the highest part of the site are the remains of the main complex nuraghe of Grutti ’e Acqua, consisting of a central tower, the keep, surrounded by a bastion that was probably equipped with four towers. A few hundred metres away, there are also a corridor nuraghe, another tholos nuraghe and numerous remains of huts.

Grutti ’e Acqua was not an isolated nuraghe in the landscape. It was a complex settlement system, in which monumental structures, dwellings, resource management and sacred places were all part of the same territory.

Why is water so important at Grutti ’e Acqua?

One of the features that distinguishes Grutti ’e Acqua from the other Nuragic sites of Sant’Antioco is the remarkable presence of structures connected with water. Cisterns and structures used to collect rainwater have been identified in the area. The name of the site itself is also associated with the presence of these structures.

At the centre of this system is the so-called “Nuragic pond”. It is a natural basin whose edges were at least partly arranged using large stones and other structural modifications. During wetter periods, water can accumulate in the basin, providing a visible reminder of the importance of this resource for the communities that inhabited the area.

Archaeologists consider it possible that the basin also had a function connected with ritual celebrations linked to the worship of water. This is a particularly interesting hypothesis because, a little further downstream, there is the only Nuragic sacred well temple currently known on the island of Sant’Antioco.

The temple encloses an ancient spring and extends underground, reached by a stone staircase. Here, water was not only an essential resource for daily life: it also had a religious significance.

Grutti ’e Acqua makes it possible to observe, in the same place, two fundamental aspects of Nuragic civilisation: the ability to manage an essential natural resource and the symbolic value attributed to water.

The Nuragic village of Grutti ’e Acqua

Around the main structures, a sizeable Nuragic village developed. Today, many of the remains are partially hidden by Mediterranean scrub and collapsed structures, but numerous huts and other buildings can still be identified on the ground.

The site also preserves monuments belonging to different phases of Nuragic civilisation. This indicates that Grutti ’e Acqua was not a settlement used for only a short period, but a place used and transformed over time. Its location also helps explain its importance. The area made it possible to overlook the agricultural plain of Canai and the routes leading towards the coast. Archaeological sources also link Grutti ’e Acqua with the area of Portu ’e su Trigu, an important landing place providing access to the cultivable inland valley.

Among the most important finds associated with the complex is a Nuragic bronze figurine depicting an archer. The artefact had been illegally removed from Italy and ended up in the United States; after being recovered, it returned to Sant’Antioco and is now preserved in the Ferruccio Barreca Archaeological Museum. This small object creates a particularly interesting connection between the archaeological site and the museum. Visiting Grutti ’e Acqua and then seeing the bronze figurine makes it possible to move from the landscape in which the community lived to one of the objects produced by that same culture.

Su Niu de Su Crobu: the giants’ tomb near Grutti ’e Acqua

A few hundred metres from the complex lies the giants’ tomb of Su Niu de Su Crobu, one of the most important Nuragic funerary monuments on the island of Sant’Antioco. SardegnaCultura locates it a short distance from Grutti ’e Acqua, while the official tourism portal describes it as the best-preserved giants’ tomb on the island.

Giants’ tombs were collective funerary monuments. They were therefore not burials intended for people of exceptional size, as the modern name might suggest, but spaces used for the burial of members of a community.

Su Niu de Su Crobu is associated with the inhabitants of the Grutti ’e Acqua settlement. If the nuraghe and the village help us understand the spaces of everyday life, the sacred well temple introduces the religious dimension, while the giants’ tomb adds that of death and collective memory.

It is this proximity that makes the area particularly important: we are not looking at isolated monuments, but at different parts of a single Nuragic archaeological landscape.

Su Niu ’e su Crobu giants’ tomb: Nuragic archaeology near Coaquaddus

The giants’ tomb of Su Niu ’e su Crobu is one of the main examples of Nuragic civilisation to visit around Coaquaddus and is considered the best-preserved giants’ tomb on the island of Sant’Antioco. It stands in the southern part of the island, on a rocky platform raised above the surrounding terrain, not far from the sea and the Nuragic complex of Grutti ’e Acqua.

The monument dates to the Middle–Recent Bronze Age and continued to be used during later phases of Nuragic civilisation.

The modern name “giants’ tomb” might suggest a burial intended for people of exceptional size. In reality, these monuments were large collective tombs, used to receive the dead belonging to Nuragic communities.

They are therefore important not only for their architecture. They also help us understand the relationship that the populations of Bronze Age Sardinia had with death, the memory of their ancestors and collective rituals.

Su Niu ’e su Crobu belongs to the “row-built” type of giants’ tombs. The monument consists of three main elements: an elongated burial structure ending in an apse, an internal funerary corridor and a large semicircular exedra opening in front of the entrance.

The burial structure is approximately 10.20 metres long. The exedra is about 14.50 metres wide and extends approximately 2.70 metres outwards.

The monument was built mainly with large polygonal blocks of trachyte, one of the volcanic rocks characteristic of the island of Sant’Antioco. The walls of the funerary corridor were constructed with roughly worked blocks set vertically and completed with smaller stones arranged in irregular rows and secured with numerous wedges.

Despite the damage suffered over time, the monument’s original ground plan is still clearly recognisable. This allows visitors to identify the funerary corridor, the entrance and the large semicircular opening of the exedra.

The exedra is one of the most recognisable features of giants’ tombs. It is located in front of the funerary chamber and creates an open space bordered on both sides by the wings of the monument.

It was probably not merely an architectural feature. This space may have been used for community gatherings and ritual practices connected with the burial of the dead and the memory of ancestors.

The tomb therefore became more than just a burial place. It was also a place where the community could come together, remember its dead and perform collective rituals.

What did archaeologists find at Su Niu ’e su Crobu?

The tomb was excavated in July 1977 by archaeologist Vincenzo Santoni, after the area had also been affected by illicit excavations that had dispersed some of the archaeological material.

The excavations yielded several finds. Among them was a fragment of an architectural element with dentils, made of soft stone and probably originally positioned in the upper part of the exedra.

Ceramic materials and eleven horn-shaped stone elements made from a soft tuffaceous rock were also found. These finds are particularly interesting because they help archaeologists reconstruct not only the original form of the tomb, but also the ritual activities carried out in front of the monument.

What is the connection between Su Niu ’e su Crobu and Grutti ’e Acqua?

One of the most striking aspects is the proximity between the giants’ tomb of Su Niu ’e su Crobu and the Nuragic complex of Grutti ’e Acqua.

At Grutti ’e Acqua, visitors can see different types of nuraghi, the remains of a village, water-collection structures, a basin and a sacred well temple. A short distance away stands this large funerary monument.

Viewed together, the two sites therefore help explain different dimensions of the Nuragic world: living, using the resources of the land, attributing sacred value to water and building monuments for the dead.

Their geographical proximity makes this unified interpretation of the landscape particularly interesting. However, an important archaeological clarification is necessary: research has not yet identified with certainty the settlement specifically associated with the tomb. It is therefore correct to speak of a single extensive Nuragic landscape, in which Grutti ’e Acqua and Su Niu ’e su Crobu represent nearby and complementary evidence, without presenting as certain a direct relationship that has not yet been definitively demonstrated.

Why visit Su Niu ’e su Crobu from Coaquaddus?

Su Niu ’e su Crobu is one of the most interesting archaeological visits to add to a day at Coaquaddus because it reveals how ancient the human history of southern Sant’Antioco really is.

The giants’ tomb helps complete the interpretation of the area: Coaquaddus tells the story of the island’s sea and geology; Grutti ’e Acqua tells the story of settlement organisation and the relationship with water; Su Niu ’e su Crobu, by contrast, introduces the themes of death, ancestors and collective memory.

How much time to spend in Coaquaddus: what to see in 1, 2 or more days

Two days can be enough to explore the southern part of Sant’Antioco at a more relaxed pace. (photo: La Pintadera Sarda)

How much time do you need to visit Coaquaddus? One day is enough to explore the beach and continue towards Turri and Torre Canai. With two days, you can add Capo Sperone and a first introduction to Nuragic archaeology. Three or more days allow you to explore Maladroxia, Serra is Tres Portus and the archaeological heritage of the town of Sant’Antioco at a more relaxed pace.

What to see in Coaquaddus in one day

One day is enough for a first introduction to Co’e Cuaddus and the coast immediately to the south.

The morning can be dedicated to the beach, the sea and observing the cliffs that characterise the two sides of the bay. Afterwards, you can continue towards Turri, where the landscape changes quickly: the wide sandy beach gives way to small coves, volcanic rocks and Mediterranean scrub.

Above the coast stands Torre Canai, adding a historical and scenic dimension to the day. Coaquaddus, Turri and Torre Canai can therefore be considered three consecutive stops along the same coastal itinerary. The official tourism portal also mentions the possibility of reaching Turri on foot from the Co’e Cuaddus area.

One day is therefore particularly suitable for those who want to combine the sea, landscape and a first introduction to the southern coast of Sant’Antioco without travelling too far from Coaquaddus.

What to see in two days

With two days, it is possible to explore the area at a more relaxed pace and continue towards the southernmost part of the island.

Coaquaddus beach, Turri and Torre Canai can be combined with Capo Sperone, where the landscape becomes more open and rocky. Here, cliffs, Mediterranean scrub, small islets and the former signal station together tell the story of the nature and history of the southern coast.

The second day can also include a first visit to the archaeological sites inland. The Nuragic complex of Grutti ’e Acqua makes it possible to see nuraghi, the remains of huts, structures connected with water collection and a sacred well temple. A short distance away is the giants’ tomb of Su Niu ’e su Crobu, one of the most important Nuragic funerary monuments on the island.

For those who prefer to travel at a slower pace, Capo Sperone and the archaeological sites can, of course, be visited on separate days. The aim should not be to accumulate places to visit, but to understand how the landscape changes from the coast to the inland area.

Three or more days make it possible to use Coaquaddus as a starting point for a more complete exploration of the island of Sant’Antioco.

The southern itinerary can be extended to include Maladroxia and Serra is Tres Portus, creating a continuous route through beaches, trails, Mediterranean scrub and coastal hills. The municipality’s own trail planning also considers the Maladroxia–Co’e Cuaddus section as part of a route that can continue towards Turri and Capo Sperone.

With more time available, the town of Sant’Antioco is also worth visiting. Here, the archaeological story continues far beyond the Nuragic age. Ancient Sulky offers an opportunity to discover the Phoenician and Punic presence, the later Roman city, and evidence from Late Antiquity and early Christianity. The Acropolis also preserves evidence of continuous use extending into the Late Roman period.

How many days are ideal for Coaquaddus and southern Sant’Antioco?

The choice naturally depends on how you prefer to travel. Those mainly interested in the sea may choose to spend more time on the beaches. Those who enjoy nature, geology and archaeology, on the other hand, will find many reasons to stay longer in the area around Co’e Cuaddus.

Coaquaddus can therefore be a simple seaside destination, but it can also become the starting point for a much richer itinerary, where beaches, cliffs, Mediterranean scrub, nuraghi and historical remains together tell the story of the southern part of the island of Sant’Antioco.

Where to stay to visit Coaquaddus and Sant’Antioco

La Pintadera Sarda in Carbonia is a quiet apartment in southern Sardinia, suitable for couples, families and small groups. (photo: La Pintadera Sarda)

For those looking for where to stay when visiting Coaquaddus and Sant’Antioco, La Pintadera Sarda in Carbonia can be a practical base for exploring the island and, during the same stay, discovering other destinations in the Sulcis Iglesiente area as well. This makes it possible to dedicate one day to the southern coast of Sant’Antioco and the next to a completely different itinerary.

Choosing a single base offers greater freedom when organising your holiday. Depending on sea conditions, wind and your interests at the time, you can plan days dedicated to the beaches or alternate them with archaeology, nature, villages and mining landscapes.

Those wishing to visit Coaquaddus can, for example, dedicate one day to the beach, Turri, Torre Canai and Capo Sperone. On other days, they can return to the island to explore Grutti ’e Acqua, Su Niu ’e su Crobu and the archaeological heritage of the town of Sant’Antioco, or choose other destinations in the Sulcis Iglesiente area.

La Pintadera Sarda in Carbonia is a quiet apartment in southern Sardinia, suitable for couples, families and small groups. It can serve as a convenient base for exploring the Sulcis Iglesiente area, making it possible to reach Sant’Antioco while still having the freedom to organise excursions to other destinations in the region.

For those looking for an apartment for visiting Sant’Antioco and Iglesias, while also wishing to discover Coaquaddus, Gonnesa, Portoscuso and other places in south-western Sardinia, staying in Carbonia makes it possible to keep the itinerary flexible without having to change accommodation frequently.

La Pintadera Sarda can therefore become the starting point for a holiday planned day by day, alternating the sea, nature, archaeology and the history of the area, while giving Coaquaddus and the island of Sant’Antioco all the time they deserve.

Coaquaddus: services, parking and useful information before your visit

Before visiting Coaquaddus, it is useful to check the latest information on parking, beach services and connections with Sant’Antioco, as some access and service arrangements may change throughout the year.

Co’e Cuaddus is a free-access beach with a designated parking area, as well as kiosks, a beach club and walkways that make access to the beach and the sea easier.

The actual availability of beach clubs, refreshment facilities, services and transport may vary depending on the season. For this reason, it is advisable to check the official information shortly before your visit, especially if you need a specific service.

How to respect the environment of Coaquaddus and the surrounding area?

Coaquaddus is located within an area of considerable natural value. Nearby are Serra is Tres Portus and, continuing south, Capo Sperone, areas included in the European Natura 2000 network.

Those exploring these environments should use existing trails, avoid taking shortcuts through the vegetation and leave the landscape exactly as they found it.

One particularly important principle concerns the beach. In Sardinia, it is forbidden to remove sand, pebbles, stones and shells from the shoreline or the sea. This protection also applies to quantities that may appear insignificant, because every element forms part of the natural balance of the coast.

In a place such as Co’e Cuaddus, this principle takes on an even clearer meaning. Even the small dark grains found in some areas of the beach tell the story of the erosion of the island’s volcanic rocks: what may seem like a simple pebble is part of the geological history of the beach.

How should you behave at archaeological sites near Coaquaddus?

The same level of care is necessary when visiting Grutti ’e Acqua, Su Niu ’e su Crobu and the other archaeological sites on the island.

It is important to follow the permitted routes and not move stones, fragments or other materials found on the ground. An archaeological find loses much of its scientific value if it is removed from the place where it was found: for archaeologists, what matters is not only the object itself, but also its position and its relationship with the surrounding context.

The best way to visit these places is therefore simple: observe, photograph and leave every element in its original place.

How to visit Turri and Capo Sperone safely?

Turri and Capo Sperone have a rockier and wilder character than Coaquaddus beach and require greater caution.

Trails and rocky surfaces can be uneven. It is advisable to wear suitable footwear, avoid getting unnecessarily close to cliff edges and assess the route carefully, especially in windy conditions.

The same rule applies to the sea. Before snorkelling, swimming or entering the water from rocky areas, it is important to carefully assess wind, waves and sea conditions. Water that appears clear and calm near the coast does not necessarily mean that currents are absent.

Before travelling to Coaquaddus, check the available services, parking, any seasonal transport connections, and weather and sea conditions. Once there, a few simple rules can help you enjoy the area responsibly: use existing paths, respect protected environments, do not remove natural elements, protect archaeological sites, and approach cliffs and the sea with caution. These are simple but important precautions.

What is the correct name of the beach: Co’e Cuaddus or Coaquaddus?

Where is Coaquaddus located?

Coaquaddus is located on the south-eastern coast of the island of Sant’Antioco, in the Sulcis area of south-western Sardinia. It is about ten kilometres from the town of Sant’Antioco and can be reached by following the road towards the southern part of the island. From here, you can continue towards Turri, Torre Canai and Capo Sperone*.*

Coaquaddus is a wide sandy beach overlooking a sea with shades of blue, turquoise and green, surrounded by hills and Mediterranean scrub. In some areas of the sand, small dark grains appear, linked to the erosion of volcanic rocks. Along the sides of the bay, the rocks also make the landscape particularly interesting from a geological perspective.

What is the seabed like at Coaquaddus?

The seabed is predominantly sandy and remains shallow for several metres from the shore. Entering the water is therefore generally gradual. Sea conditions can change, however: wind, waves and currents should always be assessed before swimming.

Is Coaquaddus an equipped beach?

Yes. Co’e Cuaddus has a free beach area and some beach services. Official sources indicate parking, kiosks, refreshment facilities, a beach club and access walkways. Opening times, transport connections, parking and service availability may be seasonal. Before visiting, it is therefore advisable to consult the Municipality or Visit Sant’Antioco.

Yes. The rocky areas on either side of the beach are the most interesting for snorkelling with a mask and snorkel. Here, the seabed alternates between sandy and rocky areas, offering a different environment from the central part of the bay. It is always necessary to check sea conditions before entering the water.

Can you explore Coaquaddus by canoe or SUP?

Yes. Canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) make it possible to observe the distinctive shape of the bay from the sea. To the north, lighter-coloured limestone cliffs can be seen, while moving south, darker volcanic rocks become more evident. Excursions should only be undertaken when sea and wind conditions are favourable.

Can you walk from Coaquaddus to Turri?

Yes. Turri can be reached on foot from the Co’e Cuaddus area. Heading south, the wide beach gradually gives way to small coves, volcanic cliffs and Mediterranean scrub. It is advisable to use the existing paths and wear suitable footwear.

Along Coaquaddus, rocks of different origins are exposed. To the north, light-coloured limestone formations are particularly evident; towards the south, darker volcanic rocks appear instead. This proximity makes it possible, even without being a geologist, to observe two very different aspects of the long natural history of the island of Sant’Antioco.

What is Serra is Tres Portus?

Serra is Tres Portus is a protected natural area within the Natura 2000 network, located between Maladroxia and Co’e Cuaddus. It covers approximately 260 hectares and is crossed by a nature trail that can be explored on foot or by bicycle. Mediterranean scrub, rocks, archaeological remains and views over the Gulf of Palmas make Serra is Tres Portus one of the main nature excursions near Coaquaddus.

Turri is a stretch of coastline characterised by small coves, volcanic rocks, Mediterranean scrub and clear sea. Above the Su Moru headland stands Torre Canai*, built in 1757 to monitor the Gulf of Palmas. It is a natural continuation of a visit to Coaquaddus for those who want to discover a rockier coast with fewer facilities.*

What to see at Capo Sperone?

Capo Sperone is the southernmost point of the island of Sant’Antioco and one of its most rugged and natural landscapes. The protected area is characterised by rocky terrain, Mediterranean scrub, cliffs and extensive views over the Gulf of Palmas. At the top of the headland is also the former Capo Sperone signal station, known as the former semaphore station, an important reminder of the history of maritime communications and coastal surveillance.

Grutti ’e Acqua and Su Niu ’e su Crobu are two of the main Nuragic sites to discover in the southern part of Sant’Antioco. The Grutti ’e Acqua complex includes nuraghi, remains of huts, water-management structures and a sacred area. A short distance away is the Su Niu ’e su Crobu giants’ tomb*, an important collective funerary monument. The two sites add an archaeological dimension to an itinerary that begins on the beaches.*

How much time do you need to visit Coaquaddus and the surrounding area?

One day is enough to visit Coaquaddus, Turri and Torre Canai; with two days, you can also add Capo Sperone and a first visit to the Nuragic sites inland. With three or more days, it is possible to explore Maladroxia, Serra is Tres Portus and the town of Sant’Antioco at a more relaxed pace, combining beaches, nature and archaeological heritage.

Is Coaquaddus suitable for a nature-focused holiday?

Where to stay to visit Coaquaddus, Sant’Antioco and the Sulcis Iglesiente?

For those who wish to visit Sant’Antioco while also exploring other destinations in the Sulcis Iglesiente, Carbonia can provide a practical base for organising different itineraries without constantly changing accommodation. La Pintadera Sarda in Carbonia offers an apartment from which to plan days in Coaquaddus and Sant’Antioco and, on the following days, excursions to other destinations in south-western Sardinia. For those looking for a base for visiting the Sulcis Iglesiente and an apartment for visiting Sant’Antioco and Iglesias*, the location makes it possible to plan the stay day by day, combining sea, nature, archaeology and the local area.*