Baunei, on Sardinia’s east coast, offers some of the island’s most spectacular scenery. Its rugged cliffs, pristine coves, and mountain landscapes make it a natural playground for outdoor lovers. What sets Baunei apart is the sheer variety of tours available—whether you want a relaxing boat cruise, a challenging trek, or an off-road adventure, there’s something to match your style. I especially like the full-day boat tour, which combines swimming in crystal waters with exploring sea caves and spotting marine life—all in one day. If you prefer land-based adventures, the jeep tour of the Golgo Plateau offers stunning mountain views and a taste of local geology. For those craving a serious challenge, the Selvaggio Blu Trek is a multi-day climb that takes you along cliffs and ancient paths, while the Cala Goloritzè Trekking Tour provides a guided route to one of Sardinia’s most iconic coves. Lastly, the Cala Mariolu Hiking Tour and Cala Biriala Trekking are perfect for those who want to explore remote beaches on foot. Whether you’re after a relaxing day or a rugged adventure, Baunei has something to offer.
Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of each of these top tours. Each one brings a unique perspective to exploring this stunning corner of Sardinia, helping you choose the right experience for your interests and fitness level.
1. From Arbatax: Full-Day Guided Boat Tour of the Baunei Coast
This full-day boat tour is a fantastic way to see Sardinia’s coast from a different perspective. Starting from Arbatax, the tour takes you along 24 miles of the beautiful Baunei coastline, showcasing some of the most famous spots like Cala Mariolu, Cala Luna, and Cala Sisine. The boat is equipped for swimming, snorkeling, and marine life viewing, making it ideal for water lovers. One of the tour’s highlights is visiting the Grotta del Fico, a sea cave that served as the last refuge for the Mediterranean monk seals—a rare chance to see history and nature collide.
The tour’s itinerary is packed: you’ll cruise past scenic landscapes, stop for swimming and snorkeling, and explore caves and natural pools. The guides are knowledgeable about the local marine environment, which enhances the experience. The reviews mention a 4.4/5 rating based on over 500 reviews, with many travelers praising the professionalism and the breathtaking scenery. A typical day includes multiple sightseeing cruises, stops for photos, and plenty of free time in each cove to relax or explore independently.
Bottom line: This tour offers a comprehensive, all-in-one experience of Sardinia’s coast, perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with marine activities in a single day.
2. From Arbatax: 4hour jeep tour of the Golgo Plateau in Baunei
For a different kind of adventure, the jeep tour of the Golgo Plateau is a top pick. Departing from Arbatax, this 4-hour off-road journey takes you into the heart of the mountain landscape, where you’ll experience lunar-like terrains and panoramic views over the Gulf of Orosei. The tour is led by guides who are well-versed in the area’s geology and history, making the ride both fun and informative.
You’ll visit notable sites like Su Sterru, a deep chasm reputed to be one of the largest in Sardinia, as well as the picturesque San Pietro church and the impressive As Piscinas dunes. The tour offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially of the rugged mountains and sea vistas. Rated 4.7/5 based on 20 reviews, travelers appreciate the expert guiding and the chance to see Baunei’s wild side without strenuous hiking. The route is suitable for most with good mobility but involves some bumpy terrain, so it’s not ideal for those seeking a relaxed experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a taste of Sardinia’s rugged mountains and panoramic sea views in a short afternoon.
3. Baunei: Cala Goloritzè Trekking Tour with A Guide
This guided trek to Cala Goloritzè is a standout for anyone wanting a more active day in Sardinia. The trip lasts around 8 hours and takes you along scenic trails from Baunei to the famous cove, known for its striking limestone formations and clear waters. The guide, a local expert, shares insights about the flora, fauna, and geology of Ogliastra, enriching your walking experience.
What makes this trek unique is the combination of wild nature and a challenging hike along rocky paths that reward you with awe-inspiring views. Once at Cala Goloritzè, you’ll have time to swim, relax, or explore the area’s natural beauty. This tour is rated 4.7/5 based on a few reviews, with participants praising the well-organized nature of the hike and the stunning scenery. It’s best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with a full-day trek, as the terrain can be rugged.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for hikers eager to combine physical activity with the chance to see one of Sardinia’s most photogenic coves.
4. Baunei: 7-Day Selvaggio Blu Trek Starting from Arbatax
If you’re looking for a serious challenge, the Selvaggio Blu Trek is Italy’s most famous multi-day hike. Over seven days, you’ll traverse cliffs, ridges, and wild coastline, including iconic spots like Punta Salinas and Pedra Longa. Led by experienced mountain guides, the trek involves navigating sheer cliffs and ancient mule tracks, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the raw beauty of Sardinia.
This tour is for experienced hikers with good fitness levels, as some sections require scrambling and exposure to heights. The itinerary includes stays in local accommodations and opportunities to taste traditional Sardinian dishes. While reviews are limited, the tour’s reputation for adventure and authenticity makes it a bucket-list experience. It’s a rare chance to learn about Sardinia’s rugged landscape over an extended period.
Bottom line: Ideal for seasoned hikers with a sense of adventure seeking a comprehensive exploration of Sardinia’s east coast.
5. From Baunei: Cala Mariolu Hiking Tour
This hiking tour to Cala Mariolu is perfect for those who love a challenge and want to see a true hidden treasure. The trip lasts around 7.5 hours, taking you through the untamed wilderness of Ogliastra and culminating at the stunning Cala Mariolu beach, famous for its pink and white pebbles and crystalline waters. The route is demanding, so it’s best suited for experienced hikers comfortable with a full day on foot.
Led by local guides, this tour offers a chance to discover secluded beaches and rocky coves away from crowds. The trail provides breathtaking views of the coastline, and the ending at Cala Mariolu is truly rewarding. Since it’s a longer and more strenuous option, it’s ideal for travelers looking for a full-day adventure that combines nature, exercise, and spectacular scenery.
Bottom line: A rewarding trek for experienced hikers eager to explore Sardinia’s wild side and reach one of its most beautiful beaches.
6. Trekking Cala Biriala
The Cala Biriala trek is an all-day adventure that combines hiking through lush vegetation with the reward of a pristine beach. Lasting around 10 hours, this trail takes you along the cliffs of the Gulf of Orosei, ending at a calm, emerald bay. It’s less traveled and offers a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
This tour involves hiking through dense greenery, crossing rocky terrain, and enjoying unmatched views of the coastline. Once at Cala Biriala, you’ll have time to swim in the clear waters, relax, and soak in the untouched environment. The trail is considered moderately challenging but highly rewarding for travelers seeking solitude and natural beauty. Reviews highlight the beauty of the environment and the sense of adventure in exploring an less accessible beach.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventurous spirits who want to spend a whole day immersed in Sardinia’s natural landscape.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Baunei, consider your fitness level, interests, and available time. If you prefer a relaxing day on the water, the full-day boat tour offers an all-in-one experience. For those seeking land-based exploration, the Golgo Plateau jeep tour provides a quick but scenic adventure. Active travelers should look at the trekking options, especially the multi-day Selvaggio Blu trek if they’re ready for a serious challenge.
Timing-wise, spring and early fall are best for avoiding crowds and enjoying pleasant weather. Book early, especially for popular tours like the Selvaggio Blu, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Baunei offers a diverse selection of tours that highlight its rugged beauty and natural riches. From relaxing boat rides to challenging hikes, there’s a perfect experience for every traveler. For a family-friendly, scenic day, the full-day boat tour is hard to beat. If you crave adventure and stunning views, the Cala Goloritzè Trekking Tour or the Selvaggio Blu Trek will satisfy your wanderlust.
Remember, these tours tend to fill up quickly during peak months, so plan ahead. No matter which you choose, Baunei promises an authentic and memorable Sardinian adventure that will leave you longing for more.
