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Italian beaches impose a daily limit on visitors this summer

Italian beaches impose a daily limit on visitors this summer

As the temperatures rise and summer sets in, that time of the year when tourists from all over the world descend on Italy's coastline is fast approaching.

But the huge popularity of Italy's two largest islands, Sicily and Sardinia, known for their pristine beaches and fluorescent blue waters, has taken a toll on the local environment.

Italian beaches impose a daily limit on visitors this summer

So this summer local authorities are taking extra steps to protect the environment by enforcing strict daily visitor limits on some of the most popular beaches on the popular islands.

"We can no longer afford thousands of daily sunbathers as in the past, it is unsustainable," said Stefano Monni, the mayor of Baunei.

Italian beaches impose a daily limit on visitors this summer

Cala dei Gabbiani and Cala Biriala now have a daily limit of 300 visitors, while Cala Goloritze has a daily limit of 250 visitors and Cala Mariolu, the largest of the beaches, has a daily limit of 700 people.

Visitors to Cala Goloritze, which is only accessible by foot or boat, will also pay an entrance fee of six euros.

Italian beaches impose a daily limit on visitors this summer

Holidaymakers must book their place on all these beaches through an app called Cuore di Sardegna (Heart of Sardinia) at least 72 hours before their visit.