Known for its red rock formations, Arbatax is the gate to the Ogliastra, the most original of all the Sardinian regions called after the wild olive tree. It is a region of superlatives which guarantees exceptional experiences that one must discover: sandy beaches and bays, that are only accessible by boat, or there where they have been made accessible driving down the beautiful panoramic road to i. e. the impressive rock Sa Pedra Longa at Baunei or one of the deepest karst gaps in Europe at the plateau Su Golgo.

There are numerous excursion possibilities by foot, by car, by boat, or by the Trenino Verde, a small rail that goes from Arbatax to upcountry Barbagia. Santa Maria di Navarrese, a contemplative and original village founded by the Principessa di Navarra who gave the village its name, is not only one of the most popular coastal villages of the Ogliastra but also the ideal place of departure for boat trips to the impressive steep coast with its beautiful bays like the Cala Mariolu, the Cala Goloritzé, and the Cala Luna as well as the grottos of Bue Marino. In August, Santa Maria di Navarrese offers open air concerts with world known jazz musicians and makes - for a short time - the little village to one of the most important meeting points for the music world. Another important jazz festival takes place in the little spa town Cala Gonone, near Santa Maria Navarrese.