Capo Testa

Because we never skip a good lighthouse

It might have something to do with the fact that Ira grew up in Crescent City, where the local lighthouse is one of the town's main attractions (Battery Point Lighthouse). He visited it often as a kid, and even after he moved away, it became a must-stop every time we returned. 

We even daydreamed about applying to be lighthouse custodians--spending a month living inside, giving tours, and running the gift shop. You had to be okay with getting stranded, though--when the tide came in, there was no way off until it went back out. Personally, I always thought that sounded like a peaceful little sanctuary. 

So now, whenever we travel, lighthouses have become destination points for us. And today was no different.

Capo Testa: Sardinia's Northern Point

Just a 10-minute drive from Santa Teresa Gallura, we arrived at Capo Testa and parked. Even from the lot, the views were stunning.

View from the parking lot at Capo Testa

We started walking toward the lighthouse, and along the trail, we stumbled across something unexpected and delightful....

Little Free Library

Had I thought to check, I could have brought one of the books I had back in Massa to exchange. What a fun surprise to find one out here!

Rock Formations & Imaginations

As we hiked, what really stood out were the incredible rock formations. Just like cloud-watching, it was fun spotting shapes and characters in the stone. I'm pretty sure I spotted a  Star Wars character below--what do you see?

What do you see in the rocks?

And finally, there it was:

Capo Testa Lighthouse--Faro di Capo Testa

Built in 1845, the Capo Testa Lighthouse still operates today, marking the western entrance to the Strait of Bonifacio, between Sardinia and Corsica.

From there, we ventured further out toward the point, discovering more quirky and dramatic rock formations along the way. 

An otter on its back


We even saw people who had scrambled down to the water with their beach gear and enjoying the crystal-clear coves tucked between the rocks. Not a bad way to spend a day!

Beachgoers


Toucan or a Dodo bird?

Rena Bianca & A Not-So-Passable Path

After our Capo Testa adventure, we headed back to town for a light lunch and then walked to Rena Bianca beach. Ira had the idea to follow the shoreline from the beach toward the rocky tip we'd seen the night before. 

The beach was far busier than during our quiet sunset visit, but still lovely.

Rena Bianca beach

We followed the coast for a bit and even managed to get close to the water in spots.


But eventually, the "trail" all but disappeared--and what was left was a bit too sketchy for our comfort. A braver soul passed us and kept climbing. Good for him!

So we turned around and instead took the other trail we'd seen the night before.

Coastal Cliff Walk

This route was more my speed, but no joke either. 

Passageway through the rocks

Path on the edge

I still can't believe they allow people to walk this trail, although paved--no railing, parts of it crumbling into the sea, and the wind? Let's just say it added "character" to the walk.

But the views? Worth it.

From our cliffside perch, we could see the guy who passed us earlier. He'd made it to the tip!  Ira was a little jealous. Given another chance, I think he'd definitely try again.

But for now, we were content soaking in the beauty from our side.

Succulents and wildflowers

Rocky coast

It was a perfect Sardinian outing--sun, sea, lighthouses, and just enough adventure. By this point, we were both ready for a little downtime.

We'll catch you tomorrow at the winery.

A dopo! 






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