Near Buggerru, this bay sits at the mouth of an old lead and zinc mine. The beach is a mix of dark sand and small pebbles (think gherkins and onions ). Two sea caves flank the cove—one accessible by swimming. The “preserved” element? You can explore the abandoned mine tunnels behind the beach. It’s eerie, beautiful, and utterly unique.
Located in the La Maddalena Archipelago, Cala Corsara is consistently voted one of the best bays in the Mediterranean. It offers a mix of surreal, fine white sand and unique granite rock formations sculpted by the wind into shapes resembling animals.
1. Capo Carbonara & Isola dei Cavoli (Marine Protected Area)
This is the “06 best” of the search query—not a ranked list, but a sensory hexagon. To explore these bays by small boat or on foot is to engage in a daily ritual of pickling. You dive into the brine, your skin tightening in the cool shock. You surface onto a beach that is not a beach but a mosaic of smooth pebbles, each one a different geological epoch. You taste the pane carasau and the local vermentino on a rocky ledge, the salt spray misting your glass. The sun, the wind, and the sea work together to preserve these moments in your memory, turning the fleeting summer day into a lasting, savory relic.
The rugged coastline of Sardinia is a mosaic of turquoise waters, granite cliffs, and hidden coves that seem untouched by time. For those following the curated "Mixedpickles" travel series, the 06 edition focuses on the absolute best bays found on this Mediterranean gem. Whether you are arriving by sleek catamaran or hiking through scented macchia scrub, these six locations represent the pinnacle of Sardinian coastal beauty. 1. Cala Coticcio: The "Little Tahiti" of Caprera mixedpickles in the bays of sardinia 06 best
Exotic scenery with, at times, bustling, vibrant crowds. 6. Cala Fuili (Cala Gonone)
The "Emerald Coast" provides a polished, luxury vibe. It features world-famous beaches like Spiaggia del Principe and high-end hubs like Porto Cervo
The competition was marked by fluctuating winds, ranging from 30-mile "island races" through the narrow channels of the La Maddalena Archipelago to days of "extremely light breezes" that eventually led to an abandoned final race. Best "Bays" to Explore in Sardinia
’s coastline is often described as a "mixed bag"—or rather, a vibrant MixedPickles Near Buggerru, this bay sits at the mouth
While "Mixedpickles" captures the professional racing spirit, the specific bays (calas) used for these events are some of the most scenic in the world. If you are looking to replicate the sailing experience or visit these locations, these are the "06 best" bays often featured in such collections: Bay / Location Highlights Iconic turquoise waters and luxury resorts. Deep-water anchoring & scenery. Golfo di Saline Protected waters used in the 2006 "island race". Tactical sailing & calm swimming. La Maddalena An archipelago with narrow, crystal-clear channels. Island hopping & snorkeling. Porto Cervo The glamorous heart of Costa Smeralda. Luxury marinas & regatta culture. Cala Coticcio Known as "Sardinia’s Tahiti" for its white sand. Day trips & photography. Villasimius Features Punta Is Molentis and Isola Serpentara. Southern coastal exploration. Practical Sailing Tips
A natural swimming pool formed by the intersection of three islands (Budelli, Razzoli, and Santa Maria).
MixedPickles in the Bays of Sardinia: 06 Best Hidden Gems for 2026
His wife, Elena, looked up from the navigation chart she was using as a placemat. "What was?" The “preserved” element
Pickling has been a long-standing tradition in Sardinia, dating back to ancient times. The practice of preserving vegetables in vinegar, salt, and spices allowed the islanders to enjoy a variety of vegetables throughout the year, even when they were out of season. Mixed pickles became an integral part of Sardinian cuisine, often served as a side dish, used as an ingredient in traditional recipes, or enjoyed as a snack.
To understand the phrase we have to look at the unique, collaborative history of European sailing regattas. While "mixed pickles" sounds like a culinary dish, in the context of Mediterranean yachting, it refers to a historic, affectionate nickname for the diverse, handicap-rated fleets of classic yachts competing in the pristine waters of Italy.
: Includes lunch and stops at the most iconic "MixedPickles" locations like Santa Maria
When you are navigating the jagged coastline, having the right "mixed pickles"—a metaphor for a diverse kit of experiences, snacks, and hidden gems—is essential. Here are the 06 best bays in Sardinia to experience this unique blend of salt, sun, and flavor. Cala Coticcio, Caprera (The Tahitian Slice)