In the easternmost part of the Golfo degli Angeli (Gulf of Angels), a rocky promontory covered with dense Mediterranean greenery extends towards the sea: on its right lies an immense expanse of golden sand, while on the left there are a series of coves with very white sand nestled in the cliff. Overlooking the promontory, called Capo Boi, 120 metres above sea level, stands an ancient watchtower, which has dominated this spectacular panorama for almost five centuries. The cape represents the western limit of the marine protected area of Capo Carbonara, as well as the coastal border between Campidano and Sarrabus, and it falls within the coastal enclave of the Municipality of Sinnai.

The construction of the tower, commissioned by the Spanish Crown, falls within the scope of the Royal Administration of the Towers, an institution created to defend the island’s coasts from Saracen incursions. It was built during the last decades of the 16th century from granite and mortar and is just under ten metres high. It was a torrezilla, or a tower with sighting functions only, where two soldiers and just a few weapons were placed. It has a truncated cone shape and the entrance is located about four metres above ground: the guards entered via a ladder, which was then pulled inside. At the foot of the tower, a splendid horizon opens up before your eyes: to the east you’ll see Capo Carbonara and Isola dei Cavoli, while on the right you can look down onto the large golden sandy shore that characterises Solanas, a splendid beach extending for over a kilometre from Capo Boi to Punta Pedrosu and washed by a sea with waters varying from blue to emerald green. On the left, on the slopes of the promontory, you will notice a sand dune next to the mouth of a torrent. On the eastern side of the rocky spur of Capo Boi, a series of hidden coves and cliffs can be reached by sea in private boats or on excursions from the port of Villasimius. You will be able to explore small, isolated and uncontaminated beaches, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub, around which there are also ravines and submerged caves, ideal for diving enthusiasts. Continuing further east, you will enter the territory of Villasimius: the first beach you’ll come across is Porto Sa Ruxi, with an unusual ‘three-arched’ shape. Its white sand is protected by dunes covered in myrtle and juniper bushes and surrounded by rocky walls, while the sea is a vivid turquoise colour, with crystal clear, shallow waters and a sandy seabed. Porto sa Ruxi is also sheltered from the mistral winds, and will captivate you with its wild appearance and almost tropical stretches.