Pedra Longa is a limestone monolith that rises approximately 128 metres above the Tyrrhenian Sea, on the east coast of Sardaigne, in the territory of Baunei. This white rock needle, standing at the edge of a wild cove, is one of the most recognizable visual landmarks of the coastal Supramonte. It marks the entrance to Golfo di Orosei and serves as a starting point for hikes to beaches inaccessible by road.

Practical information at a glance

• Access: the SP25 road (scenic Baunei–Santa Maria Navarrese route) allows you to reach the site by car; basic parking is available near the shore.
• Entrance: free access to the site and beach.
• Recommended duration: 1 to 2 hours for visiting the site and swimming; half a day if you combine it with a hike along the Supramonte trails.
• What to bring: hiking boots recommended for rocky trails; swimwear for the cove.
• Season: accessible year-round, but coastal trails may be closed due to fire risk in summer.

What you'll see

The monolith overlooks a small beach of pebbles and pale sand, framed by limestone cliffs dropping directly into turquoise water. Mediterranean vegetation — junipers, mastic trees, spurges — colonises the rock crevices. In calm weather, the water's transparency allows you to see the seabed from the surface.

The site is also an observation point for hikers taking the coastal trail connecting Pedra Longa to Cala Goloritzé beach, which is classified as a natural monument.

History and context

Pedra Longa — "long stone" in Sardinian — is a remnant of the marine and karstic erosion that has sculpted the entire Golfo di Orosei coast over millions of years. The territory of Baunei, a municipality in Ogliastra, was long isolated by the Supramonte's steep terrain. The coastal road was only opened in the 20th century, which explains the exceptional preservation of the coastline.

Highlights of your visit

The monolith seen from the sea

Boat excursions from Santa Maria Navarrese or Arbatax offer the most striking perspective on Pedra Longa. The needle stands out against the white cliffs and the deep blue of the sea. It's from the water that the true scale of the rock becomes apparent.

The cove at the rock's base

The small beach accessible by car is one of the few in Golfo di Orosei that can be reached without a boat or long hike. The water is clear and shallow near the shore, making it a popular swimming spot.

The trail to Cala Goloritzé

From Pedra Longa, a hiking trail runs along the coast northward toward Cala Goloritzé. The route crosses scrubland and limestone cliffs. Cala Goloritzé beach, accessible only on foot or by sea, is classified as a national natural monument.

Photography tips

Morning light illuminates the west face of the monolith and avoids backlighting. In late afternoon, raking sunlight brings out the texture of the limestone rock. To frame the monolith with the sea in the background, position yourself on the heights of the coastal trail, a few hundred metres north of the parking area.

From a boat, mid-morning light is ideal: it illuminates the white cliffs without flattening the relief.

Location and access

Pedra Longa is located in the municipality of Baunei, in the province of Nuoro (Ogliastra), approximately 10 km north of Santa Maria Navarrese via the SP25 road. This scenic route is narrow and winding; driving requires attention, especially during peak season.

The site is not served by regular public transport. A rental car or boat from Santa Maria Navarrese or Arbatax are the usual options. Organized boat excursions from these ports allow you to see Pedra Longa and other Golfo di Orosei coves in a single day.

Nearby attractions

• Cala Goloritzé — beach classified as a natural monument, accessible on foot from Pedra Longa or by boat.
• Cala Luna — large sandy beach framed by caves, accessible by sea or trail from Cala Fuili.
• Santa Maria Navarrese — coastal village with harbour, departure point for boat excursions to Golfo di Orosei.
• Gorges of Gorropu — limestone canyon among Europe's deepest, accessible from Dorgali or Urzulei.