Pedra Longa: the iconic pinnacle of the Baunei Coast

With its imposing 128-meter limestone pinnacle rising straight from the sea, Pedra Longa is one of the most recognisable symbols of the Baunei Coast. This natural monument is easy to reach by sea or by car from Baunei or Santa Maria Navarrese, and it is an ideal spot for a panoramic break or a relaxing day in nature.

Perfect for those who love the sea and wild landscapes, Pedra Longa offers dramatic views surrounded by high cliffs. Although there is no real beach, the crystal-clear waters along the rocky shoreline are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Pedra Longa is also the starting point for a short hike that leads to Cala Fenile.

HOW TO REACH PEDRA LONGA

You can reach Pedra Longa by sea in about 10 minutes from the marina of Santa Maria Navarrese, or easily by car from both Baunei and Santa Maria Navarrese in about 15 minutes. The scenic road that leads to the 128-meter pinnacle offers breathtaking views and makes this one of the most impressive viewpoints along the Baunei Coast.

• Rock shoes: if you plan to swim, rock shoes are essential. The area is rocky, with no sandy beach, only natural platforms and stone slabs.
• Best time to visit: the morning is ideal to enjoy the best light and panoramic views.
• Scenic stops: along the road down to Pedra Longa you will find several viewpoints worth stopping at. If you are lucky, you might spot some local goats. This stretch is perfect for taking beautiful photos with the pinnacle and the coastline as your backdrop.
• Lunch or dinner break: just a short walk from the pinnacle, a restaurant with a terrace offers a stunning view over the first stretch of the Baunei Coast. It is the perfect place to enjoy lunch or dinner while immersed in an extraordinary landscape.

USEFUL TIPS

From Pedra Longa you can reach Cala Fenile with a simple and panoramic hike of about 45 minutes. Along the way you will feel small among the towering cliffs, with a magnificent view of Punta Giradili, the third highest sea cliff in Europe. Cala Fenile, formed after a flood in 2015, is a quiet pebble beach, perfect for a refreshing swim and a regenerating break.

MAP

L'articolo Pedra Longa proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Explore and plan your trip along the Baunei Coast with this interactive map. Discover the most spectacular beaches, the best accommodations, the must-do activities and all the points of interest that make this territory unique. Use the map to orient yourself and enjoy an authentic, stress-free experience. Start exploring below.

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For an even more complete experience, download our exclusive travel guide. You will find recommended itineraries, local insights and detailed information to help you experience the Baunei Coast at its best.

L'articolo Baunei Coast map proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Cala Mudaloru: the smallest gem of the Baunei Coast

Cala Mudaloru is one of the most hidden wonders of the Baunei Coast, a small beach formed after a major landslide in 2008. This natural event created a charming inlet nestled between high limestone cliffs and characterized by a wild and untouched atmosphere.

Located just a few minutes by boat from Cala Mariolu, Cala Mudaloru is among the least known and most exclusive coves along the coast. Here, nature reigns supreme, with towering rock walls embracing the beach and a spectacular cave that extends about 20 metres into the cliff.

HOW TO REACH CALA MUDALORU

Cala Mudaloru can be reached both by sea and on foot:

• By boat: Departing from the marina of Santa Maria Navarrese, you can reach Cala Mudaloru with a boat tour. From June to September, access to the cove is regulated by buoys located about 50 metres from the shore, so you will need to swim a short distance to reach the beach.
• Trekking: for adventure lovers, a route of about 3 hours starts from the Golgo plateau and leads to the cove through demanding and panoramic paths. Due to the difficulty of the trail and the presence of exposed sections, relying on a local guide is strongly recommended to complete the hike safely.

A WILD AND AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCE

Cala Mudaloru is the perfect destination for those who want to experience nature at its most pristine. At certain times of the year, this hidden corner of the Baunei Coast offers a deep sense of peace, with only the sound of the sea breaking the silence. At certain times of the year, this hidden corner of the Baunei Coast offers a deep sense of peace, with only the sound of the sea breaking the silence. During July and August, the cove can be more visited, so if you are seeking tranquillity, it is best to come during quieter hours or in periods of lower attendance.

Whether you choose to reach it by sea or through an exciting hike, Cala Mudaloru offers a unique experience and a clear glimpse of the power of nature and the timeless beauty of the Baunei Coast.

MAPPA

L'articolo Cala Mudaloru proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Spanish Tower: the sentinel of the Baunei Coast

The Spanish Tower of Santa Maria Navarrese is one of the most significant historical and architectural landmarks of the Baunei Coast. Located on the headland separating Central Beach from San Giovanni Beach, the tower tells stories of centuries, legends and battles against Saracen raids. Thanks to its strategic position and its visual link with the Arbatax Tower, it was part of a defensive system that protected the gulf and its coastal communities.

A SPANISH-ERA DEFENSIVE SYSTEM

Built around 1591 during the reign of Philip II, the Spanish Tower was part of an extensive defensive network that included more than 40 towers along the Sardinian coastline. These fortifications, supervised by the Royal Administration of the Towers, were designed to detect pirate incursions and send alarm signals using fire and smoke.

Curiously known as the “Saracen Tower” even though it was constructed to defend against pirates, the tower in Santa Maria Navarrese was equipped with cannons and garrisoned by an alcaide, an artilleryman and a small group of soldiers. Historical documents show how the garrison had to remain alert at all times, both day and night.

ARCHITECTURE AND FEATURES

With its truncated conical shape, the Spanish Tower is divided into three levels:

• Ground floor: A large hall accessible through a main door.
• First floor: Reached by an external staircase ending at a small entrance door.
• Second floor and terrace: Connected by a narrow internal staircase leading to the terrace, from which the guards monitored the sea and signalled potential dangers.

The domed ceiling and central pillar highlight the construction skills of the period.

A LINK TO MODERN HISTORY

Over the years, the Spanish Tower has served various purposes. In the 1960s, it was converted into an office and assigned to the Guardia di Finanza. In the 1980s, thanks to the support of the local community, the tower returned under the management of the Municipality of Baunei, which continues to preserve its historical and cultural value. Today, the tower can be visited during special events such as exhibitions and cultural displays, offering visitors a unique chance to step into Sardinia’s past.

HOW TO VISIT

The Spanish Tower is easily reachable on foot from the centre of Santa Maria Navarrese. Although it is not always open to the public, its panoramic position and its proximity to Central Beach make it a must-see stop for anyone visiting the Baunei Coast. Anche se non sempre aperta al pubblico, la sua posizione panoramica e la vicinanza alla Spiaggia Centrale la rendono una tappa imperdibile per chi visita la Costa di Baunei.

A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

The Spanish Tower is not only a historical site but also a symbol of the resilience of local communities against external threats. With its timeless charm, it continues to tell stories of a distant past, closely tied to the unique beauty of the Baunei Coast.

L'articolo Spanish Tower proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Santa Maria Navarrese Central Beach: an oasis of history and nature

Santa Maria Navarrese’s Central Beach, nestled between the rocks of the Spanish Tower and the Birissi cliffs, is one of the most iconic spots in the area. With its coarse sand and a shoreline stretching for about 400 meters, this beach offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, local history, and relaxation.

HOW TO GET THERE & SERVICES

The Central Beach is easily accessible on foot from the center of Santa Maria Navarrese. Free parking is available nearby, making it an ideal destination whether you’re stopping by for a short visit or spending the whole day by the sea.

During the summer season, the beach also features two equipped beach clubs—perfect for visitors looking for comfort and services such as sunbeds, umbrellas, and rentals for kayaks, SUPs, and pedal boats.

BETWEEN HISTORY AND TRADITIONS

The name “Central Beach” reflects its strategic location between San Giovanni Beach to the north and Tancau Beach to the south. In the past, this area was known as “s’ispiaggia de s’erriu mortu” (“the beach of the dry river”), due to a small stream that reached the shore during rainy periods.

Historically, this beach served as an important landing point for trade: Genoese, Neapolitan, Sicilian, and Roman merchant ships once loaded local products here, including cheese, hides, grains, and wine. However, the area was not spared from raids by Saracen pirates, who caused significant damage over the centuries.

A UNIQUE LANDSCAPE

Two rocky formations define the landscape of the Central Beach:

• “Pedras”, a group of jagged, sharp-edged rocks.
• “Montes Tundus”, known for its smooth, rounded shapes.

Behind the shoreline stretches a refreshing pine forest, perfect for finding shade during hot summer days. Near the Spanish Tower stands a majestic centuries-old carob tree, growing just a few meters from the sea in an area dominated by wild olive trees—an added touch of charm to this corner of paradise.

AN EXPERIENCE NOT TO MISS

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax or you’re curious to discover the stories of the past, Santa Maria Navarrese’s Central Beach offers an experience where nature, history, and comfort come together. Don’t miss the chance to visit this gem of the Baunei Coast.

L'articolo Santa Maria Navarrese Central Beach proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Portu Cuau: the hidden harbor of the Baunei Coast

Portu Cuau, whose name in Sardinian means “hidden harbor”, is a charming inlet along the Baunei Coast. Larger than Portu Pedrosu, this location once played an important historical role: during the charcoal-making era, boats would dock here to load the charcoal produced in the terraces just inland. Also known as Cala Tramontana, this evocative spot is accessible by sea and is perfect for those who want to explore the hidden beauty of the coastline.

A PARADISE FOR DIVING

Thanks to the unique shape of the Capo Monte Santu promontory—jutting out into the sea like a wedge—the marine currents enrich these waters with nutrients, creating an ideal habitat for abundant marine life. This makes Portu Cuau a popular destination among diving enthusiasts. In addition to its rich biodiversity, divers can explore the remains of the Levante, a merchant ship that tragically sank here in 1963.

THE SHIPWRECK OF THE “LEVANTE”

Portu Cuau is not only a place of natural beauty but also a site that preserves fascinating and meaningful stories—like that of the Levante, a symbol of courage and human resilience. The Levante, a merchant vessel that departed from Genoa in January 1963, encountered extreme weather while navigating along the Sardinian coast, with waves reaching force 9 and winds up to 150 km/h. During the night between January 23 and 24, the ship crashed into the rocks of Portu Cuau without managing to send an SOS. All 13 crew members lost their lives in this tragedy. The remains of the shipwreck, still visible on the seabed, stand today as a silent reminder of nature’s force and the bravery of its sailors.

HOW TO REACH PORTU CUAU

By sea: from the port of Santa Maria Navarrese, you can reach Portu Cuau on a boat tour.
Sailing along the Baunei Coast, you’ll have the chance to admire its spectacular limestone cliffs and discover nearby inlets such as Portu Pedrosu and Portu Eltiera.

By trekking: a challenging 2-hour trail starts from the Golgo plateau, in the area of Ginnirco. It follows the riverbed of Bacu Maore, a spectacular dry canyon that leads all the way to the sea, offering breathtaking views along the path.

A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE ON THE BAUNEI COAST

Whether you choose to dive into its crystal-clear waters, explore the seabed, or simply admire the breathtaking panorama, Portu Cuau offers an unforgettable experience immersed in the magic of the Baunei Coast. This hidden corner of the coastline is a must-see for anyone who wants to uncover the most fascinating secrets of the Sardinian shore.

L'articolo Portu Cuau proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Portu Pedrosu: the small fjord of the Baunei Coast

Portu Pedrosu, which in Sardinian means “rocky harbor,” is a place of rare beauty along the Baunei Coast. This natural inlet, characterized by a small beach of stones and pebbles, is located in an exceptionally jagged stretch of coastline known as Capo Monte Santu. Here, the limestone walls open into a series of deep recesses, creating natural fjords that offer unique shelter to small boats.

Located in the first section of the Baunei Coast, Portu Pedrosu is a place where nature reigns supreme. Its crystal-clear waters and the silence broken only by the sound of the sea make it a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and contemplation. This small rocky fjord stands as a testament to the power of nature, which has shaped the landscape over millennia.

HOW TO REACH PORTU PEDROSU

By sea: From the port of Santa Maria Navarrese, you can reach Portu Pedrosu with a boat tour. As you navigate along the Baunei Coast, you’ll have the chance to admire spectacular limestone cliffs and discover nearby inlets such as Portu Cuau and Portu Eltiera.

Trekking: A demanding trail of about 2 hours starts from the Golgo plateau, in the locality of Ginnirco. It follows the bed of the Bacu Maore canyon, a spectacular dry watercourse that leads you all the way to the sea, offering breathtaking views along the way.

A NAME THAT TELLS THE STORY OF THE LAND

Known to Baunei’s shepherds as “Portu Porru ’e Campu,” Portu Pedrosu owes its name to a local plant: the Three-cornered Leek (Allium triquetrum). This herbaceous plant, recognizable by its white flowers streaked with green, grows abundantly in the humid and shaded terrain surrounding the inlet. As early as 1857, the geographer Alberto La Marmora mentioned this place with the name “Porru ’e Campu,” underlining its beauty and deep connection to the territory.

A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE ON THE BAUNEI COAST

Whether you choose to reach it by boat or along the trekking route, Portu Pedrosu will welcome you with its authentic, untouched beauty. This hidden corner of the Baunei Coast is an unmissable stop for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in an unspoiled landscape and discover the wonders of a coastline that never ceases to amaze.

L'articolo Portu Pedrosu proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Grotta del Fico: a hidden wonder of the Baunei Coast

The Grotta del Fico, located along the spectacular Baunei Coast, is one of the most fascinating underground treasures in Sardinia. This natural site offers a unique experience, featuring majestic limestone formations and a history rich in biodiversity.

Once a refuge for the last Mediterranean monk seals, the Grotta del Fico is now perfectly equipped for guided tours. Its limestone walls are adorned with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, while crystal-clear water reflects the shapes of the rocks, creating extraordinary plays of light that enhance the beauty of this magical place.

During the visit, expert guides lead you through evocative passageways and chambers, sharing the millennia-old history of the cave and curiosities about its fauna and geological formation.

HOW TO REACH THE GROTTA DEL FICO

The Grotta del Fico is accessible only by sea, and reaching it by boat adds a touch of adventure, turning the journey into an unforgettable experience. Boat tours depart from the port of Santa Maria Navarrese, often combining the cave visit with stops at the most spectacular coves. Entrance to the cave is €10 per person, including the guided tour.

BETWEEN LEGEND AND REALITY

The Grotta del Fico owes its name to a fig tree that once grew lushly at the entrance, providing shade and a touch of natural magic. The cave also served as a refuge for the last monk seals along the Baunei Coast—an endangered species that makes this site highly significant for biodiversity conservation.

WHY VISIT THE GROTTA DEL FICO

• A unique experience: One of the most beautiful caves in Sardinia.
• Discover biodiversity: Learn about the monk seals and the cave’s ecosystem.
• Unmatched beauty: Admire breathtaking limestone formations and crystal-clear waters.
• A special adventure: Sail along the coast to discover the cave and its wonders.

AN EXPERIENCE NOT TO BE MISSED

Whether you are a nature lover, a geology enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique adventure, the Grotta del Fico is a must-see during your visit to the Baunei Coast. A place that blends natural wonder and mystery, inviting you to live an experience you will carry in your heart forever.

L'articolo Grotta del Fico proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

San Pietro Church: a jewel of faith and legend

Nestled within the extraordinary landscape of the Golgo Plateau, San Pietro Church rises with its pristine white façade, creating a spectacular contrast with the green Mediterranean scrub and the mountains that separate Golgo from the sea. This place of worship, one of the most cherished symbols of the area, welcomes thousands of visitors and devotees every year.

A SIMPLE ARCHITECTURE WITH AN ANCIENT HISTORY

Built between the 17th and 18th centuries thanks to donations from local shepherds, San Pietro Church stands out for its essential architecture. The building consists of a single nave, with a wooden portal inviting visitors to discover the interior, restored in the 1970s.

The church is surrounded by a stone enclosure that hosts the “us istaulus” (from the Latin stabulum), ancient lodgings once used by pilgrims during religious celebrations. A short distance from the entrance stands an anthropomorphic bètile dating back to the Nuragic era, a further testimony to the long and layered history that permeates this place.

A PLACE OF FAITH AND CELEBRATIONS

On the last Sunday of June, the church becomes the heart of the celebrations in honor of Saint Peter. The most emotional moment is the procession, during which the statue of the saint, dressed in gold, is carried among the faithful. This event, which in the past also included a palio and other traditions, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and devotion.

BETWEEN MYTH AND LEGEND

San Pietro Church is also the center of a fascinating legend. According to local folklore, the Golgo Plateau was once terrorized by Sa Serpente, an evil dragon that emerged from the chasm of Su Sterru, spreading fear among the inhabitants. Saint Peter, upon arriving in Baunei, confronted the creature and defeated it, freeing the land from its threat.

In another version of the tale, the Su Sterru sinkhole opened precisely at the moment the saint triumphed, swallowing “Sa Serpente” forever. This legend strengthens the deep bond between the people of Baunei and Saint Peter, making him the most beloved saint in the village.

L'articolo San Pietro Church proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Faccia Litica: the stone face of the Golgo Plateau

The Faccia Litica (Lithic Face), also known as the Stone Mask of Golgo, is a natural formation on the basalt wall of the Golgo Plateau that reveals a surprising human face. This unique place, where nature and mystery come together, is one of the most intriguing attractions in Baunei and its territory.

A WORK OF NATURE OR HUMAN HANDS?

When viewed from the right angle, the basalt wall reveals almost perfect human features: eyes, nose and lips carved with remarkable precision. This extraordinary phenomenon, created by erosion from rain and wind, has inspired theories that the face was shaped by the Nuragic people, making the Stone Mask a place filled with fascination and legend.

A PLACE OF MYSTERY AND WONDER

A visit to the Stone Mask is not limited to the stone face itself. A few meters downhill lies a narrow sinkhole known as Sa Nurra de Genna Sarmentu, more than 120 meters deep and appreciated by speleology enthusiasts. This place connects ideally to the nearby Baccu Dolcolce, where the dry riverbed begins and eventually leads to Cala Sisine.

On the opposite side, about fifteen minutes on foot, stand the remains of the Nuraghe of Genna Sarmentu, a basalt stone structure where some of the shelves forming the upper part of the bastion are still visible. This site, rich in history and culture, enhances the experience of anyone exploring the plateau.

HOW TO REACH THE STONE MASK

• Starting point: Agriturismo “Il Rifugio” on the Golgo Plateau, where you can easily park your car.
• Walking time: About ten minutes along a well-marked trail.
• Easy access: Along the path you will find a restored juniper staircase that makes reaching the Stone Mask simple and safe.

AN EXPERIENCE NOT TO MISS

Whether you love nature, are passionate about archaeology, or are simply curious, the Stone Mask is an unmissable stop. This place, with its carved face and surrounding historical sites, offers a journey into the wild beauty and mystery of the Golgo Plateau.

L'articolo Stone mask of Golgo proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.