Arbatax between red cliffs, sea and coastal history
Accommodation in Arbatax
Arbatax can be discovered from two perspectives: the coast’s striking shapes and colours, and tangible evidence of the area’s history. The Rocce Rosse are located beside the harbour, while the bay of Porto Frailis opens up south of Arbatax. There are also historic buildings, preserved military installations, viewpoints and religious traditions. This creates a destination whose different facets can be explored according to personal interests.
Red cliffs and a bay by the sea
The cliffs of the Rocce Rosse beside the harbour of Arbatax consist of reddish porphyry and black diorite. The cliff rises about 15 metres above the sea. The contrast between the reddish and black colours of the rocks and the water is what characterises Arbatax’s coastal landscape. The Rocce Rosse also serve as a venue for open-air concerts and spectacular light shows featuring video mapping. This means the site combines natural formations with cultural productions, without either aspect requiring the same experience.
Porto Frailis presents a different coastal landscape. The place lies south of Arbatax in a bay and has fine sand and blue-green waters. When planning your trip, you can therefore distinguish between the geologically striking rocky coast of the Rocce Rosse and the sandy bay of Porto Frailis with its blue-green sea.
Lighthouse, church and military history
The Faro di Bellavista in Arbatax was built in 1866. Another distinctive building is the Chiesa di Stella Maris. It has a stone façade, a wooden door and a three-tiered bell tower. The church was consecrated on 3 June 1953. The dates give the two buildings a different historical context: the Faro di Bellavista was built in the 19th century, while the Chiesa di Stella Maris dates from the middle of the 20th century.
Thirteen casemates from former anti-aircraft and naval batteries have been preserved in Parco Batteria. During the Second World War, these installations housed soldiers. As part of a revitalisation project carried out in 2008, a nature trail was created in Parco Batteria. The nature trail is located in the same park as the thirteen preserved casemates. The park also offers visitors panoramic views of the town.
Religious traditions and special events
The Madonna Stella Maris is honoured every third Sunday in July with three days of celebrations. These celebrations culminate in a procession at sea. Anyone wishing to include the Madonna Stella Maris celebrations in their plans can set aside a three-day period in July.
Another view across the gulf
A panorama across the gulf can be enjoyed from the foot of the Torre di San Miguel. This view across the gulf complements the panoramic view of the town in Parco Batteria with a second perspective.
More places for planning your trip
Girasole, Gairo, Marina Di Gairo, Jerzu, Tortoli, Ilbono, Bari Sardo and Santa Maria Navarrese
For the higher-level travel overview: Ogliastra.
