How to Get to Cala Biriola

If Cala Mariolu is the most famous cove in the Gulf of Orosei, Cala Biriola is its best-kept secret. Less known, less photographed, less crowded — yet capable of leaving anyone speechless on first arrival. Its waters are an intense, almost unnatural blue; the limestone cliffs on both sides create an intimate, secluded atmosphere; and the seabed is among the best in the gulf for snorkeling.

Cala Biriola cannot be reached by car and has limited access. In this guide we explain in detail how to get there with all available options and practical tips for an unforgettable visit.

Where Is Cala Biriola?

Cala Biriola is in the Gulf of Orosei, on Sardinia's eastern coast, within the Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu National Park. It lies south of Cala Mariolu, in an even wilder and less frequented stretch of coast.

Reference points:

• From Orosei to Cala Gonone: about 15 minutes by car (17 km)
• From Cala Gonone (harbour) to Cala Biriola by boat: about 45–55 minutes
• From Nuoro to Cala Gonone: about 50 minutes by car

How to Get to Cala Biriola by Boat – The Most Common Option

As with all the most beautiful coves in the Gulf of Orosei, the boat is the most direct way to reach Cala Biriola. From Cala Gonone harbour, morning excursions touch the gulf's main coves.

Cala Biriola is not included in all tours: some excursions focus on better-known coves like Cala Luna, Cala Sisine and Cala Mariolu. If Cala Biriola is a priority, verify with the operator before booking that it is included in the route.

Available types:

• Multi-cove day tour: the most common, visits 4/5 beaches. Duration 6/8 hours.
• Dedicated southern coves tour (Biriola, Mariolu, Sisine): ideal for those focusing on the most remote beaches.
• Private charter: maximum flexibility — you decide where to go and how long to stay.

Essential tip: Explicitly ask the operator if Cala Biriola is on the route. Being less known, not all tours include it. Book at least 48 hours in advance in high season.

How to Get to Cala Biriola on Foot – Trekking from Genna Silana

Trekking is the alternative for those wanting an authentic experience, but it is a demanding route requiring adequate preparation.

The trail starts from Rifugio Genna Silana, reachable by car from the SS125 between Baunei and Dorgali. From there you descend towards the coast through limestone rocks, rock faces and sea views opening suddenly through the vegetation.

Route characteristics:

• Start: Rifugio Genna Silana (SS125, about 900 m a.s.l.)
• Difficulty: Medium-High
• Duration: 3/4 hours one way (the uphill return takes longer)
• Elevation: about –900 m (down) / +900 m (return)
• Signage: present, but offline app recommended (Komoot, AllTrails, Wikiloc)

Compared to the Cala Mariolu route, the Cala Biriola path is less frequented — more silence and a stronger sense of discovery, but also fewer people nearby in case of difficulty.

How to Get to Cala Biriola by Kayak

Sea kayaking is perhaps the most exciting way to reach Cala Biriola. From Cala Gonone, paddle along the gulf's rocky coast with the chance to explore small sea caves and coves accessible only this way.

The kayak route from Cala Gonone to Cala Biriola takes about 3 or 4 hours and suits those with experience and good fitness.

Several operators in Cala Gonone offer single or double kayak rental, guided kayak tours with cove stops, and multi-day excursions with bivouac overnight stays.

What Makes Cala Biriola Special?

The waters: a deep, almost unreal blue, different from any other cove in the gulf. The contrast with the white cliff faces is extraordinary, especially in early morning light.

The seabed: among the best in the gulf for snorkeling. Rocks, posidonia, colourful fish. Visibility often exceeding 15/20 metres.

The quiet: being less known than Cala Mariolu, Cala Biriola is generally less crowded, especially if you arrive in the early morning.

Like all wild coves in the gulf, it has no umbrellas, bars or facilities. Bring everything you need.

Cala Biriola or Cala Mariolu?

A question many ask. The answer depends on what you are looking for:

Choose Cala Mariolu if:

• You want the iconic white pebbles and postcard landscape
• It is your first time in the gulf
• You prefer a beach with more activity

Choose Cala Biriola if:

• You want fewer crowds and more authenticity
• You love snorkeling on rich seabeds
• You seek a place less frequented by mass tours

Our advice? If you have time, visit both — boat tours often include both coves in the same day.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

What to bring:

• SPF 50+ sunscreen (mandatory — sun reflected off white rocks is intense)
• Mask and snorkel — the seabed truly deserves exploring
• Plenty of water and food — no services on the beach
• Water shoes
• Rubbish bag — we are in a national park, leaving everything clean is a duty

When to go:

• June and September: ideal period with warm sea, fewer crowds.
• July and August: crowded but spectacular; arrive early morning.
• May and October: almost deserted, cool water, extraordinary autumn scenery.

Where to Stay to Visit Cala Biriola

The ideal base is Orosei, just 15 minutes by car from Cala Gonone harbour where excursions depart.

Hotel Gli Ulivi is a 4-star hotel with a panoramic position on Orosei's hill, overlooking the Gulf. Our location lets you easily reach the harbour each morning and return in the evening to enjoy authentic Sardinian cuisine at our restaurant.

Our staff is always available to provide up-to-date information on sea conditions and local excursion operators.