Cannigione

It is located on the western side of the largest and deepest *ria*—an inlet formed by a river mouth—in northeastern Sardinia. Cannigione, a hamlet of Arzachena and originally a fishing village, is now a renowned tourist destination. Its seafront is lined with the docks of a modern and spacious marina. Right next to it is the town beach: light-colored, coarse sand that slopes into a sea with endless shades of blue. The gently descending seabed is greatly appreciated by divers and snorkelers, making Cannigione one of Sardinia’s top diving centers. Don’t miss the posidonia meadows found at various dive sites, especially around the Mortoriotto rock. Close to the beach you’ll find parking, equipment and boat rentals, bars, restaurants, and accommodation.

Many other beaches can be found near the village, stretching from the Gulf of Arzachena to the Saline of Palau: La Conca, Tanca Manna, Mannena, Barca Bruciata, and Isuledda. The coastline is ideal for families and young travelers, offering the chance to visit exclusive, nearby destinations each day such as Porto Cervo, Baia Sardinia, and Poltu Quatu. Along the 55 kilometers of Arzachena’s coastline, don’t miss the small coves of Lu Multiccioni and Li Capanni, the long Tanca Manna beach, and the Caribbean-like atmosphere of Cala Capriccioli.

Arzachena, less than ten kilometers from the village, embodies the style of the Costa Smeralda: pink granite and white stone define the local architecture. Everywhere you’ll find green spaces, cafés, and boutiques. Traditional Sardinian crafts and delicacies blend seamlessly with luxury shopping. From Cannigione, boat trips depart for the Maddalena Archipelago National Park. To the south lies the Padula Saloni lagoon, where among reeds and tamarisks nest the purple heron, black stork, osprey, and purple swamphen—a species found only in Sardinia’s lagoons. The brackish waters are also home to coots, moorhens, little egrets, mallards, and occasionally pink flamingos. In summer, the pond’s shrubs take on a reddish hue, creating striking scenery at sunrise and sunset. North of the village rises Punta Occhione, covered in a blanket of Mediterranean scrub: from its summit you can enjoy sweeping views of the entire gulf, all the way to the Bear Rock.