Tortoli

Tortoli - the gateway to nature on Sardinia's east coast. The town Tortoli unites holiday flair with fascinating nature. A lively harbour, the red rocks of Arbatax and the beautiful beaches of Ogliastra: the heart of Sardinia’s east coast exudes Mediterranean diversity.

Region description

Tortoli – the gateway to nature on Sardinia's east coast

The town Tortoli unites holiday flair with fascinating nature. A lively harbour, the red rocks of Arbatax and the beautiful beaches of Ogliastra: the heart of Sardinia’s east coast exudes Mediterranean diversity. The green parks of La Sughereta and Batteria sit regally atop a hill, providing a fascinating vantage point out over the sea. Together with the ancient archaeological site S'Ortali 'e su Monti from the 7th century BC and the former cathedral Sant Andrea from the 18th century, they make the town much more than an attractive holiday destination. Those who have enjoyed a glass of cannonau with some traditional culurgiones dumplings whilst gazing at the red rocks of Arbatax will be spellbound by the full charm of Tortoli. And its beaches are pretty special too – no other coast in Sardinia has been awarded more blue flags for excellent water quality and cleanliness. Cala Moresca, for instance, boasts golden, glittering sand and a distinctive rock formation.

Around Tortoli: red rocks surrounded by beautiful landscapes

Nearby beaches

- Cala Luna
- Cala Goloritzé
- Spiaggia di Basaura
- Lido di Orrì
- Spiaggia di Cea
- Spiaggia di Coccorocci

Arbatax – a small place with iconic landmarks

This district of Tortoli is a place of powerful contrasts. It is best known for its rocce rosse, the famous red rocks made of porphyry and their unique ambience. They serve as an awe-inspiring backdrop, especially in the evening and during the Rocce Rosse Blues festival. In summer, visitors can reach Arbatax with the narrow gauge railway Trenino Verde, which tackles countless hairpin bends to weave through Sardinia’s picturesque mountain landscape to the capital of Cagliari.

The village ruins of Osini and Gairo Vecchio

Some 40 kilometres from Tortoli at the foot at the Gennargentu Mountains lies an unusual postcard motif – the village ruins of Osini and Gairo Vecchio were created during a landslide and today offer a fascinating outing to explore their unique, morbid beauty.