CALA VIOLINA
Cala Violina is one of the most beautiful beaches in our area and has been designated by the Foundation for Environmental Education as a "Blue Flag" beach. The Blue Flag designation is given to those beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating operators that meet strict standards regarding environmental education and information, water quality, environmental management, and safety and services.
The beach's clean, turquoise waters appeal to those who prefer a more natural beach experience instead of the quintessential private Italian beach bars that spoil guests with umbrellas and lounge chairs.
WHY IS IT CALLED CALA VIOLINA?
Cala Violina takes its name from the lovely violin-like sound made when walking upon this particular quartz-based sand.
This noise is a rare phenomenon that occurs in very few places around the globe including Rio de Janeiro, Eigg Islands, Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, and Australia's Gold Coast.
The sand itself is protected by the Italian state and it is strictly forbidden to take it with you.
KEEP CALA VIOLINA CLEAN!
We are very lucky to have a gem like Cala Violina so close to Il Bell'Arco, but it only stays beautiful when responsible visitors properly dispose of their waste.
Take everything you brought to the beach back home with you.
When possible, leave the beach cleaner than it was when you arrived!
PREPARE FOR YOUR TRIP!
A beach so beautiful and easy to access is in high demand in Italy! Especially during the high beach season (July-August), the Cala Violina parking lot is generally full by 9am. As such, if you want to spend the day at the beach, you should plan to arrive as soon as the lot opens at 8am. Parking along the road leading to the lot is forbidden and will incur steep fines.
The Cala Violina parking lot is about a 25 minute drive from Il Bell'Arco. Once you've parked, there is a 35 minute hike along marked paths to reach the beach.
Wear tennis shoes and bring insect repellent, water and snacks.
During the summer months, there is a food truck located near the beach which offers sandwiches, snacks, water, beer and coffee.
SUNSET AT CALA VIOLINA
I highly recommend enjoying this spectacular beach during low season (my last swim of 2019 was November 1!), or in the evening when most of the beachgoers have left for the day. Golden hour and sunset are absolutely glorious on this beach!
For the adventurous/romantic types, I highly recommend spending your evening at Cala Violina and enjoying a fabulous sunset on the beach. But be prepared with a flashlight for the return hike in the dark!