When people picture deserts, they usually think of vast stretches of sand in distant regions such as the Sahara, the largest on the planet. Yet, within certain limits, Italy also has a unique landscape often described as the country's desert by the sea.
Where is the Sardinian desert located?
The Piscinas Dunes are located in Sardinia, in the Costa Verde area, within the municipality of Arbus. This small "Italian Sahara" lies about 25 kilometres from the town of Arbus and not far from the ancient mining village of Ingurtosu.
The dunes cover an area of 28 square kilometres and extend inland from the coast for about two kilometres. These dunes are approximately 100 metres high, forming veritable hills that are periodically shaped by the winds.
How to reach the Piscinas Dunes
Reaching the Dunes of Piscinas by car is definitely the most practical option.
- From Cagliari or Oristano, take the SS196 and then the SS126 to Arbus, then follow the signs for Ingurtosu and Piscinas. The last stretch (10-12 km) is on a dirt road, but can be driven with any car.
Getting to Piscinas by public transportation can be more complicated, but not impossible.
- Regional buses run to Arbus, while seasonal shuttles or transfer services run to the beach.
What to know about Piscinas Beach
At the end of the dunes lies the beach, which extends for over 7 km. It is surrounded by centuries-old junipers, mastic trees, Mediterranean scrub, and, in the more inland areas, rare plants that survive in arid environments.
Most of the beach is free, but some areas are equipped with facilities, allowing you to choose the best option for your visit. Car parking is also permitted in designated areas.
Things to see around the Dunes
There are also many things to see in the area around the Piscinas Dunes. Among these, we should mention:
- The mining ruins of Ingurtosu and Naracauli: ancient factories and ghost villages that tell the industrial history of the area
- Scivu Beach: not far away, it is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area
- Montevecchio: included in the UNESCO Geopark network, it is the most famous mining village in the area, which can be visited with guided tours
- Buggerru: a small village overlooking deep blue cliffs and coves
Living in Arbus
Piscinas is a hamlet in the municipality of Arbus, and although there are no residential buildings near the dunes, there are other homes for sale or rent throughout the municipality.
If you're looking for a quiet place to relocate, take a look at the latest listings for homes for sale or rent on idealista:
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