Highlight • Natural Monument
Hiking
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Gli Scogli Rossi, also known as the Faraglioni di Cea or "Is Scoglius Arrubius," are a captivating natural monument located on the central-eastern coast of Sardinia, Italy. These distinctive sea stacks rise dramatically from the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, just off Cea beach, which spans the municipalities of Tortolì and Bari Sardo. Part of the scenic Ogliastra region, these formations are renowned for their vibrant red porphyry, a striking geological feature that makes them a prominent landmark.
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February 10, 2025
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Best routes near Gli Scogli Rossi - Faraglioni di Cea
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Wednesday 15 April
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13°C
27 %
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Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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While there isn't a dedicated hiking trail directly to the Faraglioni themselves, as they are offshore, you can enjoy walks along Cea beach and the surrounding coastal paths. Access to the stacks is primarily by swimming from the beach or renting a pedal boat. These coastal walks offer excellent viewpoints of the Faraglioni from the shore.
The immediate area around Gli Scogli Rossi is the sandy Cea beach, which is flat and easy to navigate. If you venture onto the coastal paths, the terrain can vary, potentially including some uneven sections or slight inclines. However, most walks along the coastline are generally considered easy to moderate, suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.
While the warmer months are ideal for swimming and water activities, visiting Gli Scogli Rossi in winter can offer a different, more tranquil experience. The dramatic red rocks are still beautiful against the sea, and you'll likely encounter fewer crowds. However, amenities on Cea beach might be limited, and water activities would be less appealing due to colder temperatures.
Cea beach, and by extension the area around Gli Scogli Rossi, can become quite crowded during the peak summer months (July and August), especially on weekends. To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (May, June, September) or arriving early in the morning during summer.
Generally, dogs are permitted on many Sardinian beaches during the off-season. During peak summer months, regulations can be stricter, with dogs often restricted to designated areas or specific times. It's advisable to check local signage or official municipality websites for the most current rules regarding dog access on Cea beach before your visit.
Parking is available near Cea beach, which serves as the primary access point for Gli Scogli Rossi. While there isn't specific information about parking directly adjacent to the stacks, you'll find parking areas for the beach itself. During peak season, these can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
Direct public transport to the Faraglioni themselves is not available, as they are offshore. However, you can likely find bus services to Tortolì or Bari Sardo, the municipalities bordering Cea beach. From there, you might need to arrange a taxi or walk to reach the beach and then access the Faraglioni by swimming or pedal boat.
Cea beach, which is the access point for Gli Scogli Rossi, offers various amenities, especially during the summer season. These typically include beach bars, restaurants, and facilities for renting beach equipment like umbrellas, sunbeds, and pedal boats. You'll find more extensive services, including accommodation, cafes, and pubs, in the nearby towns of Tortolì and Bari Sardo.
Gli Scogli Rossi are composed of vibrant red porphyry, a type of igneous rock characterized by large, distinct crystals embedded in a fine-grained matrix. These striking sea stacks are a natural formation resulting from millions of years of geological processes, including volcanic activity and subsequent erosion by wind and sea. They are essentially a continuation of a porphyry ridge extending from the hill behind Cea beach.
The Ogliastra region of Sardinia is rich in natural beauty. Beyond Gli Scogli Rossi, you can explore other stunning beaches, hidden coves, and dramatic coastal landscapes. The area is also known for its mountainous interior, offering opportunities for hiking and discovering traditional Sardinian villages. Consider exploring the nearby Cala Goloritzé or the Grotte del Fico for more natural wonders.
Yes, Cea beach, the access point for Gli Scogli Rossi, is very popular and considered family-friendly due to its fine white sand and shallow, clear waters. While swimming out to the Faraglioni requires caution and supervision, children can safely enjoy playing on the beach and in the calm, shallow sea. Pedal boat rentals offer a safe way for families to get closer to the stacks.