Top Things to Do in Sardinia: Discovering the Untamed Beauty of Ogliastra
When planning a trip to Sardinia, many travelers think of famous spots like Costa Smeralda or Cagliari. But for those seeking unspoiled landscapes, fewer crowds, and a deeper connection with the island’s soul, Ogliastra is where Sardinia reveals its most authentic side. Located on the eastern coast, this hidden gem offers a blend of sea, mountains, tradition, and adventure.
Here are the top things to do in Sardinia—with a special focus on everything Ogliastra has to offer.
1. Sail the Wild Coastline on a Sardinia Boat Tour
No visit to Ogliastra is complete without experiencing its coastline by sea. A Sardinia boat tour from Santa Maria Navarrese or Arbatax allows you to access secluded beaches, majestic cliffs, and turquoise waters that are nearly impossible to reach by land.
From Cala Goloritzé, with its iconic rock arch, to the crystal-clear waters of Cala Mariolu and Cala Sisine, each stop feels like discovering a secret paradise. Whether you book a private tour or join a small group, sailing along the Baunei coast is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Sardinia.
2. Hike the Supramonte Mountains
Ogliastra is unique in Sardinia for its combination of rugged coast and dramatic mountains. The Supramonte di Baunei, a limestone mountain range, offers some of the island’s best hiking experiences. Trails lead you through ancient holm oak forests, deep canyons like Codula di Luna, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the sea.
The hike to Cala Goloritzé, starting from the Golgo plateau, is a must for adventurers. It’s a 3.5 km trail that rewards you with one of the most iconic beaches in all of Sardinia.
3. Discover the Village of Baunei
Baunei, perched on the mountainside, is the cultural heart of the region. Walking through its quiet alleys, you’ll find panoramic terraces, artisan shops, and a rhythm of life that reflects Sardinia’s traditional values.
Visit the nearby Church of San Pietro, explore the Golgo plateau with its ancient nuragic sites and natural sinkholes, or simply enjoy a sunset over the Gulf of Orosei from a local bar.
4. Swim in Hidden Beaches You Can Only Reach by Boat
Ogliastra’s coastline is home to beaches that consistently rank among the most beautiful in Italy—but they’re not easy to get to, which means they’re never overcrowded.
These include:
- Cala dei Gabbiani – A peaceful sibling to Cala Mariolu, known for its tranquility.
- Cala Biriola – Tucked under a small cliff and reachable only by sea or an expert-level trail.
- Piscine di Venere – A series of natural rock pools with mesmerizing colors.
These spots are usually included in a full-day Sardinia boat tour.
5. Explore Arbatax and Its Red Rocks
Arbatax is Ogliastra’s main port town and a great base for exploring both inland and coastal attractions. One of its most iconic sights is the Rocce Rosse—striking red porphyry rocks that rise dramatically from the sea.
Take a walk along the small harbor, enjoy local seafood, or attend the annual Rocce Rosse Blues Festival if you’re visiting in summer.
6. Taste Traditional Sardinian Cuisine
One of the best things to do in Sardinia is indulge in its culinary heritage, and Ogliastra has its own rich offerings. Try dishes like:
- Culurgiones – Stuffed pasta pockets native to Ogliastra, filled with potato, pecorino, and mint.
- Porceddu – Slow-roasted suckling pig, a Sardinian classic.
- Pane carasau – Traditional flatbread served with oil and herbs.
Pair your meal with a local Cannonau wine or a chilled Ichnusa beer for the full experience.
7. Take the Trenino Verde for a Scenic Railway Journey
For a slower-paced exploration, hop aboard the Trenino Verde (Green Train), a historic narrow-gauge railway that winds through the mountains and countryside of Sardinia. The route from Arbatax to Mandas is especially scenic, showcasing landscapes you’d never see by car.
It’s a charming way to experience the island’s interior and understand the depth of Sardinia beyond its beaches.
8. Visit Nuragic Sites and Ancient History
Sardinia is rich in prehistoric history, and Ogliastra has several Nuragic sites worth visiting. These mysterious stone towers and villages date back over 3,000 years.
Sites like Serbissi Nuraghe, nestled in the mountains near Osini, offer panoramic views and a powerful sense of connection with the island’s ancient past.
9. Relax in Santa Maria Navarrese
This seaside village combines beach charm with easy access to both sea and mountain adventures. From here, you can take a Sardinia boat tour, enjoy calm beaches, or dine on fresh seafood with views of the Torre di Santa Maria, a 17th-century Spanish watchtower.
Santa Maria Navarrese is a perfect base if you want a balance of comfort, authenticity, and access to the best of Ogliastra.
10. Experience Local Festivals and Traditions
One of the more immersive things to do in Sardinia is to attend a local festival. In Ogliastra, these events are community-driven, steeped in history, and full of Sardinian pride.
From religious processions to food fairs and folk music nights, festivals in Baunei, Tortolì, or Jerzu offer a chance to connect with the island’s people and rhythms.
If you’re searching for things to do in Sardinia that go beyond crowded beaches and polished resorts, Ogliastra is the answer. It’s a region of raw beauty, where mountains meet the sea, and traditions remain deeply rooted.
Whether you’re sailing along Baunei’s cliffs, hiking through forested canyons, or savoring a plate of culurgiones in a quiet village, Ogliastra offers a kind of richness that stays with you.
And at the center of it all? The Sardinia boat tour—the one experience that ties together the coast, the silence, the color, and the soul of this unforgettable part of the island.
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