Fontanamare, Nebida, Masua and Buggeru
map of the coast from Fontanamare to Buggerru
Fontanamare
Where the SP 83 meets the sea, lies the 3 km long bathing beach Spiaggia Fontanamare.
It is mainly frequented by residents from Iglesias and Gonessa. In comparison to the east coast, there is very little tourist infrastructure here.
At the northern end of the beach, there are still some houses and ruins of the abandoned mining village Fontanamare.
From Fontanamare, one of the most impressive scenic roads in Sardinia leads northward.
The drive follows the coastline, winding up in numerous curves and then snaking along the mountain slopes.
Even during peak season, traffic here is relatively light. There are several parking bays that you can use as viewpoints and for photography.
Nebida
The village sits on a steep mountainside high above the sea. Like other towns in this area, it’s a former mining village.
With the decline of Sardinian mining, the settlement initially seemed destined for decay, but thanks to its fantastic location, tourism is increasingly making its mark.
Nebida, Belvedere
The main attraction of Nebida is the panoramic trail “Belvedere.”
It starts near the football field, where ample parking is also available.
The circular route winds around a large rock, offering fantastic views of the Golfo di Gonnesa, the cliffs, and the offshore rock formations like the famous “Pan di Zucchero.”
Located directly on the path is the bar “Al 906 Operaio.”
From the terrace, you can enjoy the magnificent view while having a meal.
Especially during sunset, it’s an unforgettable experience.
On the circular route, you’ll come across relics from the mining era. The bar itself was established in the former explosives magazine of the local mine.
Down by the sea, you’ll find the ruins of an ore washing facility. A staircase with crumbling steps leads downwards. The deteriorating structure is fenced off.
Masua
Masua is located approximately 3 km north of Nebida.
The village consists of a few houses, a quarry with an associated cement factory, and a decommissioned mining facility.
Along the shore, there are two small beaches and an open-air exhibition of mining technology.
The mine can be visited as part of a guided tour.
Buggerru
As you continue north from Masua, the road initially leads away from the sea through a lonely mountain landscape.
Along the way, you’ll pass by the small ghost village of Acquaresi and the turnoff to the beach of Cala Domestica.
Buggerru is also a former mining settlement that has seen the influx of tourism. Below the town lies a beautiful 300-meter-long sandy beach.
The former freight port of the mine was converted into a marina in the 1980s. The decommissioned mine, the Galleria Henry, is open for visits.
www.visitbuggerru.it/galleria-henry
North of Buggerru, the long beach of Portixeddu begins. From there, you can drive inland to the SS 126. Direct access to the Costa Verde from here is not possible.