My Sardinia

Costa Verde, on the west coast of Sardinia, is a treasure trove of hidden beaches. The land is marked with green brushes (called macchia) from which the area takes its name. It is not all green, though, as there are also plenty of sand dunes, rocky cliffs, and fine sand beaches worth exploring.

To get to these southern beaches, specifically the Spiaggia Scivu, head for the turn-off for Gennamari, Bau and Spiagga Scivu by going from Capo Pecora via Portixeddu and then northeast along the SS126. From the northeast, watch out for the sign on your right some 13 kilometers from Arbus.

Follow the mountain road rising to a height of about 450 meters. It is a scenic ride of macchia-covered landscape, climaxing into a view of the sea unveiling itself. Spiaggia Scivu is about five kilometers from the beach. Going further would take you to the unexpected sight of the local penitentiary.

There has been very little development in Spiaggia Scivu, owing perhaps to the presence of a local jailhouse, but some travelers might find this lack of touristy feel very charming. Few people come here even during the peak month of August.

There are some little inconveniences to this fact: you should come prepared with your own shelter against the sun as it can become very exposed owing to the lack of facilities. There is, however, a designated parking area (4 euros in the summertime), and if you come during the peak season of summer, there might even be a kiosk and showering facilities (0.50 cents). There are plans of creating a holiday village here, courtesy of property development company Valtur.

The inconvenience is worth it: Spiaggia Scivu offers 70-meter dunes which give you an expansive view of the beach.