Basaura Beach: The Sports Paradise in Tortolì

Basaura Beach: The Sports Paradise in Tortolì

Basaura Beach extends south of the town of Tortolì, bordering San Gemiliano beach to the north and the Orrì coastline to the south. Characterized by golden, medium-grained sand and a blue sea that becomes deep quickly, Basaura is constantly swept by summer thermal winds, making it the ultimate destination for sports enthusiasts in central-eastern Sardinia.

The Disused Tortolì-Arbatax Airport

Behind Basaura beach lies a structure that tells a story of industrial and tourism development: the disused Tortolì-Arbatax airport. Built in the 1960s to serve the nearby Arbatax paper mill, the airport hosted commercial and tourist flights until the early 2000s, connecting Ogliastra directly with the Italian mainland and Europe. Today, the quiet runway adjacent to the shore creates a fascinating visual contrast between contemporary industrial archaeology and coastal nature.

Outdoor: Kitesurfing, Windsurfing, and Running Haven

Basaura offers ideal conditions for various outdoor activities:
- Kitesurfing and Windsurfing: Thanks to the summer Scirocco wind blowing regularly side-shore, the beach hosts an active community of kiters. A local sailing and water sports school offers lessons and equipment rental on site.
- Running: The wide shoreline and the flat dirt road behind it are perfect for running sessions at sunrise or sunset.

Cool Off with Local Craft Beer

After an intense session of water sports, there is nothing better than relaxing at one of the beach kiosks. The recommended choice is a chilled Ogliastra craft beer, produced locally by microbreweries in Tortolì or neighboring villages. Unfiltered, fresh, and scented with local hops or wild herbs like myrtle, it is the ideal regenerating drink for active travelers.

Dog Beach and Practical Information

Basaura hosts one of the few authorized Dog Beaches in the area, making it a great destination for those traveling with pets: