In a scenario of great tranquility and natural beauty, the Calich Lagoon extends near Fertilia, in north-western Sardinia.
Fertilia is a modern town, a hamlet of Alghero. It was built in the fascist era, during the period of reclamation of the surrounding marshes, to make the land suitable for agriculture and sheep farming. Despite these interventions to modify the territory, the area around the pond retains much of its beauty: we can define it as an oasis of tranquility a stone’s throw from the town center.
A paradise of biodiversity
The Calich Lagoon is one of the richest ecosystems in Sardinia and is part of the Porto Conte Regional Natural Park. We are in a flat area, where the confluence of some local waterways (Rio Barca, Canale di Oruni, Rio Calvia) has created a large pond; the lagoon waters are separated from the sea for a long stretch by the beach of Maria Pia.
Here the brackish waters and lush vegetation create an ideal habitat for an incredible variety of flora and fauna… Among swaying reeds and aquatic plants, numerous species of migratory birds find refuge. Ducks, pink flamingos, egrets, herons are just some of the inhabitants that birdwatchers and all visitors can admire in this environment.
Right from the modern Fertilia bridge, which leads towards Alghero, we set off along a pleasant path in the greenery, which in a few minutes takes us to discover an ancient bridge…
The fascinating Roman bridge
Making the visit to this place even more exciting is the presence of the Roman bridge that stands on the waters of the lagoon. This infrastructure allowed the connection between the ancient centers of Nure and Carbia, via the western Roman road “a Tibula Sulcis”. Radically restored in the Middle Ages, it was partly damaged by the reclamation works of the pond in the 30s. Of the 24 arches that constituted it, 10 were destroyed and it is therefore no longer possible to cross the watercourse.
Today we can still walk along it to admire the beauty and the views of the place.
Postcard Landscapes
The paths continue around the pond and allow us to admire the landscapes surrounding the Calich lagoon. Breathtaking views of the placid waters of the lagoon that reflect…
The lush vegetation, with maritime pines, wild olive trees and Mediterranean scrub, embraces the lagoon and offers shelter and shade on hot summer days… The ideal place to enjoy a relaxing break among the wonders of nature, in this part of Sardinia!
