The volcanic activity of the massif of Montiferru provided the raw material, creating the plateau. The waves of the sea and the current of the Mannu river, which flows here, have shaped its features. Punta Foghe is the spectacular result of thousands of years of erosion patiently carried out by nature: the plateau ends in a precipice overlooking the sea, creating an impressive rocky cliff, with islets and little coves that enhance its appearance. It is also the river that makes the scenery unique. Before flowing into the sea, it ‘swerves’ to the south, unable to erode the basalt of the cliff. Between the last stretch of the river and the sea, there is a bed of pebbles, which partially emerges, creating a distinctive barrier.
You can reach the main cove - near the mouth of the river - by following the path that starts at the foot of the Foghe Tower, a Spanish watchtower built at the end of the 16th century and abandoned in the middle of the 19th century. It is about ten metres high, made of basalt ashlars and red vulcanite and has a circular vaulted-dome room with a fireplace, while on the outside there is a flight of steps carved out of the stonework, allowing access to the terrace. From here, you will have a captivating view that extends from the other Spanish towers built above the coves of s’Ischia Ruggia and Columbargia and the spectacular sea stacks of Corona Niedda. Behind it, you can admire the Mediterranean scrub, formed by junipers, lentisk trees and prickly pears, that slopes down towards the reefs. The sea in front of the cliff is crystal clear, reflecting shades of green and blue, and is perfect for diving, underwater fishing and snorkelling. On the beach, you will be surprised by the river landscape that fades into the rocky coastline, with dark pebbles and rugged basalt rocks, surrounded by reed beds and frequented by birds of prey and sea birds, such as vultures, cormorants, peregrine falcons and Eleonora's falcons.
The central-western coast of Sardinia offers further scenarios not to be missed: south of Punta Foghe, in the territory of Cuglieri, you can admire the enchanting waterfall of Cabu Nieddu, with a drop of forty metres directly into the sea and very few equals in the world. In the little village of Santa Caterina di Pittinuri the limestone arch of s'Archittu and the nearby beach of ochre-coloured sand with golden reflections await you. To the north, you can relax on the wide expanse of multicoloured sand at Porto Alabe, in the marina of Tresnuraghes.
