La Ciaccia: Coast, Trails and History

Coastal trails, the beach and the history of the Church of Santa Rita each offer a different focus. The “Trekking Baia Ostina” hike leads to a bathing spot, while “Trekking la Ciaccia Rurale” is defined by the plant species found along the trail.

Hiking among the coast, cliffs and plant life

The “Trekking Baia Ostina” hike runs along the coast and passes through the volcanic cliffs of Scala di Lu Frati. It ends at Baia Ostina beach, where swimming is possible. The route therefore includes both a clearly defined coastal stretch and a beach destination. For planning purposes, you can think of it as a hike followed by the option of a swim.

The “Trekking la Ciaccia Rurale” trail has a different focus: the plants found along it mainly include species from evergreen Mediterranean woodland, Mediterranean maquis and garrigue. Maquis and garrigue are different forms of Mediterranean shrubland; together with the plants of evergreen Mediterranean woodland, they give the trail a botanical focus. When choosing between the two, the first route answers the question of where the trail leads—to Baia Ostina beach—while the second puts plant life in the foreground.

When comparing the two hikes, you can consider what each one focuses on: “Trekking Baia Ostina” combines a coastal route, cliffs and a beach destination. “Trekking la Ciaccia Rurale,” by contrast, can be identified by the plant species mentioned. If reaching a waterside destination is especially important to you on a hike, Baia Ostina offers that; on the Rurale hike, vegetation sets the theme. The two routes therefore center on different questions: Where does the trail lead, and what plant life accompanies it?

Beach Access and Water Sports

At Maragnani beach, access is the main consideration. A steep staircase leads directly from the parking lot to the beach. This differs from the route to Baia Ostina, which ends at the beach. Maragnani is suitable for surfing and windsurfing; both activities depend on the weather. If these sports are part of your travel plans, check the forecast for your intended dates in advance.

Santa Rita: Construction and Later Expansion

The Church of Santa Rita in La Ciaccia was built in the early 1970s on the initiative of Margherita Deperu. Local residents also contributed by donating their labor and building materials. The building was completed at the end of 1973; in 1990, side aisles were added. A side aisle is an area attached to the side of the church’s central space. The dates distinguish the original construction from the later expansion. For those interested in cultural history, Santa Rita offers insight into a building history shaped by both an individual initiative and community contributions.

Discover more destinations: Alghero, Usini, Bonorva, Marritza, Ittiri, Tissi, Putifigari, Nulvi.

For the overview of the wider area: Sassari.