Best attractions and places to see around Tortolì include a diverse range of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural experiences on Sardinia's eastern coast. The region is characterized by striking red rock formations, ancient Nuragic sites, and pristine beaches. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes from dramatic coastal cliffs to historical towers and archaeological complexes.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The Barì Tower is an ancient medieval tower of Spanish construction, located on the eastern coast of Sardinia, on the beach of the same name in the municipality of Bari Sardo, in the province of Nuoro.
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The Barì tower is an ancient medieval tower of Spanish construction, located on the eastern coast of Sardinia, on the beach of the same name in the municipality of Bari Sardo, in the province of Nuoro.
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Walking along the coast of Santa Maria Navarrese (Baunei district) you can come across the Spanish Tower, a silent witness to history that has watched over the fate of the inhabitants of the central east coast of Sardinia for over five hundred years
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The Spanish tower of Santa Maria Navarrese is a clear testimony to the problem of Saracen pirate incursions, which often hit the coastal area between Villaputzu and Arbatax. The tower was built around 1591, when as many as 40 towers existed along the Sardinian coast (today there are just over 100). The tower is in direct visual connection with that of Arbatax, a logistical solution that allowed the service garrisons in the two buildings to control the entire gulf. From here the view of the gulf is beautiful.
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...spread over three levels. On the ground floor, a door gives access to a large hall, while the first and second floors can be reached via an external staircase that ends in front of the first floor entrance door. A narrow ladder on the wall leads to the second floor; Another staircase leads to the terrace. In the 1960s the tower was used as an office and was used by the financial police for a long time. Since the 1980s, the tower has again been under the control of the municipality of Baunei, thanks in part to a kind of popular uprising. Source: turismobaunei.eu automatically translated
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...there were about forty towers. The tower was built on the small promontory that separates the central beach from that of San Giovanni and is in direct visual connection with that of Arbatax. A logistical solution that allowed the garrisons on duty in the two buildings to control the entire Gulf. According to documents from the Royal Administration of the Towers, these two were among those armed with cannons. The soldiers on duty at the coastal towers were required to be on alert day and night, as stipulated in a “Balance of the Management of the Towers” dated January 29, 1798, which recommended that the terrace be kept operational at all times. small wood to be able to carry out in the event of a sighting, In 1833, Angius found the tower of S. Maria Navarrese still armed and “guarded by an Alkaide with an artilleryman and some soldiers.” The truncated cone-shaped tower has a domed vault with pillars and...
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THE “SPANISH TOWER” The Spanish Tower of S. Maria Navarrese is clear evidence that the problem of the incursions of Saracen pirates, who often plagued the stretch of coast between Villaputzu and Arbatax, was also felt in this area. Today there are 93 coastal towers along the Sardinian coast: the first were built during the time of Charles V (1516-1556) in the middle of the 16th century, but it was only under his successor Philip II (1556-1598) that the defense system was created institutionalized with the creation of a special “Royal Administration of the Towers” in 1581, which, in addition to overseeing the planning and construction of new towers, also had to manage in detail the costs and repairs of existing towers. The Spanish Tower of S. Maria, strangely known by the name “Saracen Tower” although it was built to combat piracy, according to historians, it was built around 1591, when it was all along the Sardinian coast....
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The region boasts several impressive natural landmarks. Don't miss the distinctive red porphyry cliffs of Arbatax Red Rocks, especially captivating at sunset. Another dramatic sight is the Pedra Longa Rock Formation, a 128-meter high rock marking the start of the Baunei coast. You can also visit the sea cave of Grotta del Fico or the Lequarci Waterfalls.
Tortolì is renowned for its beautiful beaches. Moresca Cove offers a pleasant tree-lined setting and crystal-clear water. Other popular choices include Porto Frailis with its white sand, the long stretch of Lido di Orrì, and Lido di Cea, known for its soft white sand and striking red rock formations.
Yes, the area is rich in history. Explore the ancient Nuragic complex of Nuraghe S'Ortali 'e su Monti, which includes a Giant's Tomb and menhirs. You can also visit the 16th-century Spanish Tower at Santa Maria Navarrese or the well-preserved Torre di Bari, offering insights into the region's past and spectacular views.
Many beaches like Lido di Cea are family-friendly with shallow, clear waters. The Arbatax Red Rocks are easily accessible and fascinating for all ages. Exploring the historical towers like Torre di Bari can also be an engaging activity for families.
For breathtaking coastal vistas, head to the Arbatax Red Rocks, especially at sunset. The Pedra Longa Rock Formation also provides a stunning backdrop. The San Gemiliano Tower offers wide views over Porto Frailis and San Gemiliano beach, and the Spanish Tower at Santa Maria Navarrese provides beautiful views of the gulf.
Yes, the area offers various routes for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous options for hiking around Tortolì, including trails near the Arbatax Red Rocks and Moresca Cove. For cyclists, there are guides for cycling and gravel biking around Tortolì, with routes passing by coastal views and natural landscapes.
Beyond historical sites, Tortolì features the Former Cathedral of St. Andrew, an 18th-century building with a polychrome marble altar. You can also visit Su Logu de s'Iscultura, a museum of modern art in the town center, or the historic Church of Sant'Antonio Abate.
The best time to visit Tortolì for enjoying its beaches and outdoor activities is typically during the spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. Summers (July-August) are ideal for beach lovers but can be very warm and busy.
While specific 'wild swimming' spots are not detailed, the coastline around Tortolì and the wider Ogliastra region is dotted with numerous coves and inlets accessible by boat, particularly from Arbatax Harbour. These excursions often lead to secluded and pristine swimming locations like those in the Gulf of Orosei, including Cala Goloritzé and Cala Mariolu.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, particularly the unique red rock formations and the crystal-clear waters of the beaches. The historical sites offer fascinating insights into Sardinia's past. Many appreciate the blend of dramatic landscapes, opportunities for relaxation, and outdoor adventures.
While some attractions within Tortolì and Arbatax are accessible, reaching more remote natural sites or trailheads often requires a car. However, in summer, the Trenino Verde narrow-gauge railway offers a scenic way to reach Arbatax, winding through Sardinia's mountain landscape.
Yes, the Arbatax Red Rocks are easily accessible near the harbor. The San Gemiliano Tower and the Spanish Tower at Santa Maria Navarrese also offer panoramic views and are generally easy to reach.


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