A stunning beach in Europe with rare pink sand is dubbed one of the most beautiful and unique in the . But, if anyone steps foot onto it, a hefty fine could be coming their way.
The Spiaggia Rosa beach in Cala di Roto, on the Island of Budelli, in Sardinia, , features the unusual pink hue which is fiercely protected by security who stop trespassers from also disturbing the wildlife. It has been closed to the public since 1998, but in 2023 the Italian government introduced a new policy,for anyone daring to break the rules.
The beach was once privately owned by a New Zealand billionaire, who bought it at auction for almost three million euros in 2013. However, the Italian government reclaimed it, and it became public property in 2016. As it was declared Zone A by the Archipelago della Maddalena National Park, its high level of protection means that no one is allowed access to the beach. The only way to see it is by a boat tour, where tourists can get a glimpse of the paradise only on-passing.
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Where does the pink colour come from?The pink hue comes from a combination of natural processes, with crushed coral and red shells mixing with the white sand. The colour is created by microorganisms called Foraminifera, which have pink or red-coloured shells. These shells break down over time and mix with the sand, giving the beach its distinctive pink colour.
Still, Sardinia is a beautiful place to visit during the summer time, where temperatures can get as hot as 30 degrees Celsius. The are many other stunning beaches with crystal clear water, whilst also offering access to mountains, ancient archaeological sites and outdoor activities like hiking and surfing.
Not to mention, all the delicious food, which the country is known for, and specifically in Sardinia being the Fregula, Pecorino sardo, Bottaga and the Zuppa gallurese. And of course, its most popular beverage being the Mirto, which is a myrtle liquor that consumed all-year round.
Despite it being difficult to visit Spiaggia Rosa, it is still possible to experience the beach without risking hefty fines. However, it is important to keep in mind that the beach is located within a national park, and preserving its unique ecosystem is crucial.
- Boat tours: Visitors can catch a glimpse of Spiaggia Rosa by joining a boat tour, departing from La Maddalena or nearby islands.
- Limited access: Although the beach is closed to the public, visitors can view it from a distance and take photographs from designated areas.
