Framed by ancient olive trees and the vivid turquoise of the Ogliastra sea, Santa Maria Navarrese welcomes travelers with a quiet elegance and the charm of a timeless seaside village. This renowned coastal hamlet of Baunei blends the serenity of a beach resort with a rich tapestry of stories and legends that shape its origins.
At the heart of the village sits the evocative Church of Santa Maria di Navarra (Chiesa di Santa Maria di Navarra), built in the 11th century. According to tradition, the chapel was erected as a votive offering by a Princess of Navarre, who survived a violent shipwreck while sailing through Sardinian waters. Framing this mystic site is a grove of ancient olive trees—green giants that rank among the oldest in Europe—while the 17th-century Spanish Tower (Torre Spagnola) stands guard over the main beach, overlooking the coastal skyline.
Beyond its historical treasures, Santa Maria Navarrese is celebrated as the main gateway to the Gulf of Orosei and the Supramonte region. Boats depart daily from its modern marina to explore the coast's most famous coves—such as Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Goloritzé. The village also serves as the starting point for numerous hiking trails scaling the coastal cliffs, including the legendary Selvaggio Blu trek.
Santa Maria Navarrese stands out as an ideal destination for anyone seeking refined relaxation, where the scent of Mediterranean scrub, ancient legends, and the untouched beauty of the Ogliastra coast merge into an unforgettable experience.
