“About an hour's drive from Porto Torres there's a long, silent lake at the foot of the Limbara, where the shores stay peaceful even in August. Most tourists have no idea.”
Lake Coghinas is one of the largest lakes in Sardinia: about 18 km² of fresh water between Oschiri and Tula, created by a dam built in the 1920s at the foot of Monte Limbara. This is no pond: it has long, often deserted shores, gravel coves and waters home to carp, perch and eels.
From Porto Torres and Sassari it's about an hour's drive (65–80 km, depending on whether you head for the Tula or the Oschiri shore). Despite being so close to the towns of the north, it remains little known to organised tourism.
The Temo is considered Sardinia's only navigable river (the regional Sardegna Turismo portal says so too) — a distinction few people know about. It flows through Lago Temo, a man-made reservoir near Monteleone Rocca Doria, and runs down to Bosa, where it meets the sea on the west coast after crossing the historic heart of the town. From Bosa you can paddle a few kilometres upstream inland by canoe or kayak.
Bosa, on the Temo, is a town of great charm: colourful houses, the medieval Malaspina Castle, the historic Sa Costa quarter. The river running through it is part of the town's identity: fishing boats moored at the jetties, the washerwomen of days gone by, and today the kayakers.
The stretch of river from Bosa heading inland makes a calm, atmospheric kayak route: reed-lined banks, herons, silence. Kayak hire in Bosa and Bosa Marina (what's on offer changes from season to season). Easy, suitable for everyone.
One of the lakes most popular with anglers in northern Sardinia — carp, perch, eel. You need an inland-waters fishing licence: also check which areas and seasons are allowed. Float fishing and spinning.
The shores and wetlands around the Coghinas are home to herons, birds of prey and several species of duck. From October to March the wintering birds arrive; in April and May there's the spring migration. Bring binoculars.
Along the shores of the Coghinas there are several free access points with small gravel beaches. It's a man-made reservoir: before swimming, check that no bathing bans are in force. In summer the water is pleasantly warm. No facilities — bring everything you need.
| Period | Coghinas | Temo / Bosa | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| April – May | Birdwatching (spring migration) | Ideal for kayaking | Cool water, lush green, few people |
| June – July | Swimming and fishing | Kayaking + Bosa | Warm water, long days |
| August | Intense heat | Crowds in Bosa | Early morning or late afternoon |
| September – October | Excellent fishing | Kayaking + autumn colours | ⭐ For many, the best time |
| Winter | Migratory birds | Bosa empty and beautiful | For photographers and birdwatchers |
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