If you love the outdoors and have always wanted to visit the island of Sardinia, then this is the right article for you. What would you say if I told you that in addition to the crystal clear turquoise sea, the island also offers lakes and rivers? If it sounds good so far, then what about getting the best of both worlds and being able to kayak down a freshwater river right into the stunning Gulf of Orosei? In Sardinia, you can! Read on!
The Cedrino River
Sardinia is Italy’s second-largest island after Sicily and to most visitors’ surprise, the inland areas offer various landscapes from lush hills to mountains reaching 1,800 meters (6,000 ft). Forgotten villages, archaeological sites, and meandering rivers make exploring the island’s off-the-beaten-path areas completely worth it.
The Cedrino River is a major waterway that originates in the mountainous area known as Supramonte in the Nuoro province on the island’s eastern side. The Cedrino Lake branches into a fork and forms the Cedrino River which flows all the way to the Gulf of Orosei, a total of about 80 km.
River Experiences
Depending on the type of adventure you’re looking for, you can either choose to rent a kayak from Cedrino Lake and follow the river all the way to the Marina of Orosei and the Santa Maria Beach or begin your experience further inland at the magnificent Su Gologone spring. This is one of the island’s most popular natural attractions.
Su Gologone Springs
Su Gologone was created over millennia as the rushing water source carved underground channels into the rock. About 500 liters per second of fresh mineral water gushes out of the rock at any given time during the year. The water’s shades are magnificent changing with the sun’s rays and ranging from a deep emerald to turquoise.
You can begin your journey at the springs and continue on to Cedrino Lake and beyond, depending on your experience level. You’ll meander by eucalyptus forests and lush greenery.
Other Sites Nearby
In the immediate area, you can hike to the tiny Nostra Signora della Pietà church or the archaeological site of Monte Tiscali which dates to the Bronze Age.
Another option would be by car. Su Gologone is only about 25 minutes by car from Nuoro or about 45 minutes from the Marina di Orosei.