ABOUT AREA
Bari Sardo
In the region of Ogliastra lies Bari Sardo, its most important town, known for its history and religious devotion. There is some gorgeous scenery to be explored and for those who love history, plenty of archaeological remains. The symbol of Bari Sardo is Torre di Bari, a 13m high Aragonese tower. Bari Sardo has a beautiful shoreline and between Bella Vista and Sferracavallo, you will be spoilt for choice. South of the beach of Torre di Bari is the quieter beach of sa Marina Tramalitza, boasting beautiful waters with a soft green hue.
Bari Sardo is much more than just a beach destination, the plains of Planargia and Gleri and the giant hills Su Pranu hills dominate the town. The town of Bari Sardo itself is characterised by rustic houses, Spanish towers, and villas. Many agricultural and artisanal traditions are passed on from generation to generation in Bari Sardo, making it a very interesting place to visit, packed with culture. Bari Sardo is very well known for its high-quality handicraft of textiles, tapestry, carpets, linens and blankets and you may well see these influences in properties in and around the area.
There are many activities to take part in when staying in the area, such as trekking, diving, exploring the beautiful mountains and of course soaking up the Mediterranean sun on the beautiful golden beaches. Kayaking is a popular way to explore the stunning coastline whilst keeping families and couples alike entertained. The sea along this coastline has been awarded the Bandiera Blu several times – a blue flag certification awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education, stating that a beach has met its standards.
Of course, while staying in Sardinia, the food you try will be a real highlight! There are many pizzerias, cafés and wonderful bars to try the local cuisine from in the area, not to mention the gelato. After a day of sightseeing, enjoying a traditional Sardinian meal is a real treat not to be missed.
BEACHES
Cea Beach
Cea is a truly beautiful beach in Bari Sardo, a stretch of sand 1km long, with flat rocks that arise from the sea. This beach has some interesting sights to see, with red stacks known in Italian as ‘Scoglius Arrubius’, which make the scenery even more captivating. The beach’s shallow waters make it ideal for children and there are plenty of places to find refreshments, in the many kiosks and restaurants available.
The Beach of the Tower of Bari
A famous beach split into two stretches of the beach by an Aragonese tower. The northern part is called ‘Mare degli Uomini’ and the south is named ‘Mare delle Femmine’. These names date back to the years after World War Two when the beach was segregated between men and women. The sea is a beautiful blue and is home to rich marine fauna, so a great spot for those who are keen snorkellers.
Punta Su Mastixi
Thanks to the basalt rocks, this beach is a unique location, the basalt creates many inlets next to the wonderful blue sea. Behind the cliffs, there is a basalt highland covered in the Mediterranean maquis.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Su Nenniri
A very important food festival held in July when vases of wheat sprouts are prepared and thrown into the sea for good luck at the end of a religious procession accompanied by ‘launeddas’ (triple pipes) and by groups wearing traditional costumes.
Festival of ‘Culurgiones’
This is a chance for visitors in August to come to Bari Sardo to try local products, a classic food and wine festival!
Beata Vergine del Monserrato
At the beginning of September, the whole town gathers to celebrate the Patron Saint of Bari Sardo.
Tower of Bari
Make sure to visit the symbol of the town, erected on a rocky promontory that separates the beaches of the bay of the same name. The fortress was built between 1572 and 1639, originally as a watch tower as the site was often raided by corsairs.
Church of the Beata Vergine di Monserrato
A truly stunning church and one of the most beautiful in the region. Located in the town centre, it was built in the 17th century and features a bell tower, boasting marble interiors. If exploring churches is your thing, then the church of Santa Cecilia is also worth a visit, located inside a charming small garden on a hill.
