Once an important Phoenician port, Chia is now a laid-back seaside village on the south coast of Sardinia. It’s surrounded by sun-drenched beaches and near the Stangioni de Su Sali, a wildlife-filled pond that has been designated as a Natura 2000 special protection area.
For elevated views across the coastline, climb to the Torre de Chia, a Spanish watchtower built to ward off Barbary pirates. Also nearby are the remains of the Strada Romana that once connected Chia to the city of Nora. Today, this ancient settlement is preserved within the Pula Archaeological Park.
Stretching west of the Torre de Chia are the golden sands of Spiaggia di Sa Colonia and the equally beautiful Spiaggia di Monte Cogoni. Closer to the village centre is Spiaggia di Su Portu, a small crescent of sand backed by a pine forest. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent from the on-site kiosk.
Getting there
Chia is around an hour’s drive from Cagliari and Cagliari Elmas Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to Chia and the village is small enough to explore on foot.