Hiking in Sardinia: The Best Trails On The Island
Sardinia is an island of natural beauty, surrounded by turquoise waters and inhabited by an incredibly diverse population. For the active traveller, there are hiking trails of every kind. You can find stunning routes everywhere, from the coastal paths and beaches to beautiful national parks and mountain gorges.
Due to each trail's uniqueness, drawing up a ranking isn’t easy. Therefore, this guide will introduce those that will surely leave you speechless, whether it’s a mountain trail, a beach walk or a visit to an archaeological site.
The best season for hiking in Sardinia is in the spring, from March to May and in autumn, from September to November. These months offer the best weather conditions and sunshine, allowing you to enjoy Sardinia’s hiking trails of astonishing beauty.
If you are excited to learn more about what Sardinia offers, read on to discover the best hiking opportunities by area.
Supramonte Mountains
The Supramonte is a dolomitic limestone mountain range located in central-eastern Sardinia. It stretches over 35,000 hectares of land, including the municipalities of Baunei, Dorgali, Oliena, Urzulei and Orgosolo. The prominent peak of Monte Corrasi towers over the mountain range with 1,463 altitudes. At the same time, highland rivers cross them, creating deep ravines and several underground caves, such as the Grotta del Bue Marino.
This area is uninhabited and occupied by limestone cliffs, deep canyons and underground caves. You will find the most popular trails stretching between the lush gorges of the Gorropu Canyon and Tiscali and the splendid little beaches of Cala Fuili, Cala Luna and Goloritzé.
Gola Di Gorropu
The Gola Di Gorropu is a loop trail near Dorgali and takes about 9 hours to complete. It is generally considered a challenging route, but with spectacular views. It stretches over 28.5 km through the Gorropu Canyon, where you can enjoy the gorges' silent beauty. You might come across mountain bikers, but the trail is mainly used by people that appreciate long and strenuous hikes surrounded by the stillness of nature.
Cala Luna - Grotte Blu Marino
This trail takes over 3 hours to complete and is less challenging than the Gole Di Gorropu. It is a popular 10km trail for birding, hiking, and running throughout the year, meaning that you will likely come across other people. The trail starts at Cala di Fuili and follows the Cala Luna path, eventually heading to the Cala Luna beach. This area is known for its caves and beautiful beach panorama, offering snorkelling and diving in the crystal blue waters of the Ziu Santoru beach.
Cala Fuili
This out-and-back trail near Dorgali is only 2.7km long and is quite an easy but rocky route. It takes less than an hour to complete, and you will likely cross paths with bird enthusiasts and other hikers while exploring. If you follow the trail for about 40 mins, you will get to the breathtaking ancient cave of Grotta del Bue.
Sulcis-Iglesiente
The Sulcis-Iglesiente mountains are the most ancient formations of Sardinia in the southwest, characterised by a vast Mediterranean scrub forest and incredible landscapes. The Sulcis-Iglesiente is a historic mining region of the island, mainly known for its richness of coal and minerals. It is only now returning to life thanks to being valued by tourists and, thus, the tourism industry. Due to the area’s history, the most prominent trails have followed the old mining trails that unite the municipalities with a long history.
Il Camino di Santa Barbara
This trail is the stage 2 part of the Il Camino di Santa Barbara near the old mining town of Iglesias. It stretches over 6.1 km and takes an average of 2 hours to complete. The Il Camino is a historical, cultural and religious path connecting with ancient mining paths in the Sulcis-Iglesente mountains. Stage 2 section starts from Nebida and reaches the limestone cliffs of Musua. As the trail is relatively short compared to others, it allows plenty of time to discover the extraordinary structures at Laveria Lamarmora and Porto Flavia.
Canal Grande - Portu Sciusciau
The Canal Grande is quite a challenging trail with its 12.9km loop over several cliffs - not for the faint of heart. It starts near the town of Iglesias and takes just over 4 hours to complete. Although the beginning of the trail is quite demanding, the return part of the loop is less strenuous and allows you to admire the splendid view.
Buggerru - Cala Domestica
This trail is a beautiful 5km excursion starting at the town of Buggerru, with an average of 1 h 20 min to complete. The path is appropriate for both hikers and bikers following the Via della Ferrovia, passing by Sa Caletta and finally arriving at the breathtaking beaches of Cala Domestica.
Gennargentu Mountains
The Gennargentu is the most prominent mountain range in Sardinia, with its highest peak - the Punta La Marmora - reaching 1834m altitude. It is often covered with snow for short periods in the winter and is accessible to hikers the rest of the year. On the clearest days, hikers can see as far as the Gulf of Cagliari, and it is exceptionally splendid to reach in the evening.
The Gennargentu encompasses the Nuoro and Ogliastra provinces and forms a part of the Gennargentu National Park. Its ancient rock types include schist, limestone and granite.
Cala Goloritze
The trail to Cala Goloritze is 7.2km long and takes just over 3 hours to complete. It's considered a moderately challenging route near Baunei, leading to the stunning beach of Cala Goloritze. The beach is one of the most popular in Sardinia and was created by a landslide in 1962. Rock climbers also frequent the area, making it one of the central tourist attractions from March through November.
Selvaggio Blue: Pedra Longa - Cala Sisine
This long, 77.1km trail in the Gulf of Orisei National Park starts near Baunei and is generally recommended to complete in stages as it takes around 37,5h. The trail departs from Pedra Longa, and you will follow the paths inland after crossing a couple of streams. After a long journey, it returns to the coast and reaches the Selvaggio Blu and other trails, finally arriving at Cala Sisine.
Gola su Gorroppu
The Gola su Gorroppu is an 8.4km trail in the National Park of the Gulf of Ortisei, near Urzulei. This moderately challenging route will take you on a four-hour journey from the Genna Silana Pass, arriving at the spectacular Gorroppu Canyon. The lush canyon with its old and gigantic trees is one of the gems of Sardinia, popular with hikers and rock climbers alike. Visitors must stay quiet in the canyon to protect the area's peacefulness and not disturb wildlife.
Pedra Longa - Santa Maria Navarrese
This trail is 9.3km from Pedra Longa, near Baunei. It is a moderate route and takes around 3 hours to complete. The views along the trail are stunning and definitely worth your time. However, avoid the summer's hottest times of the day, as there isn’t much shade. The best time to visit this area is between March and November.
Medio Campidano
The fertile plain of the Campidano extends from Cagliari to Oristano and includes the massif of Monte Linas and the volcanoes of Guspini and Arbus. The coastal area of the Campidano, including Costa Verde and Piscinas, is exquisite and wild, while the living dunes of the desert are among the highest in Europe.
Cala Mosca - Sella del Diavolo
Enjoy this moderately challenging loop trail starting at Cala Mosca. It generally takes about 2 hours to complete and is 6.4km. This is a prevalent route, so you are likely to encounter other hikers on your way to the stunning city of Cagliari with the Poetto and the coast, followed by a climb to the Sella del Diavolo.
Il Giro del Mare
The Il Giro del Mare is a 104.6km loop trail near the town of San Gavino Monreale, passing through Montevecchio before returning to the starting point. The trail is moderately challenging and is especially popular with cyclists as it is a classic itinerary for Sardinian cyclists.
Monte Arcuentu
The exciting trail of Monte Arcuentu starts near Arbus and takes about 2,5 hours to complete. Its 459m elevation is considered a moderately challenging route with great views and an excellent 5.3km challenge.
Tavolara Island & Olbia
In the northeastern part of Sardinia, the beautiful granite archipelago of Gallura and La Maddalena enchants every visitor, and the white limestones of Tavolara Island invite curious hikers.
Tavolara’s limestone massif over granite is 5km long and 1km wide, showing off its beautiful cliffs above crystal blue waters popular with scuba divers. The island is inhabited only by a few families, as the government has restricted a large area for military personnel. The nearest town to Tavolara is Olbia, and a small fishing village called Porto San Paolo is across the strait from the island.
Punta Cannone
The Punta Cannone is a challenging hike with more than 1100m elevation gain and takes nearly 6 hours to complete. This 10.3km out-and-back trail takes you from the western beaches to the majestic top of the Punta Cannone at 558m above sea level and back to the protected marine area.
Il Sentiero delle Due Signori
The beautiful pilgrimage near Olbia will take around 5 hours to complete the 13km out-and-back trail. This moderately challenging journey will take you to the famous churches of Nostra Signora di Cabu Abbas and the Madonna del Monte and allow you to admire the magnificent views of Olbia and the Aranci golf course.
Alghero and the Asinara Island
In the Northeastern part of Sardinia, the Sassari region is encompassed by the beautiful Catalan city of Alghero and the island of Asinara from the north. The immense plains of Nurra stretch to the beaches of Capo Caccia and Pelosa Beach at Stintino in the west.
Grotta della Dragunara
The 6.1km out-and-back trail of Grotta della Dragunara is a moderate hike and takes around 2 hours to complete. With its dazzling views, this famous route is often interrupted by landslides, but there are alternative routes to get around those areas. As there isn’t much shade, taking plenty of water with you on a hot summer day when departing from Alghero is recommended.
Asinara Island
The “donkey-inhabited” island of Asinara is uninhabited by people and is located at the northwestern tip of Sardinia. Its 52 km2 area boasts impressive steep and rocky coasts and, due to the scarcity of fresh water, a predominantly low Mediterranean scrub as its vegetation.
Asinara Island is part of the Asinara National Park and is now considered a wildlife and marine preserve. As suggested by its name, the island is home to wild albino donkeys.
The island is very popular for outdoor activities like hiking, horse riding and mountain biking. The trails of Punta della Scomunica, Cala Reale, Asinara Fornelli and Cala Ponzesi show you the island's extraordinary beauty with an excellent panorama along the way.
Porto Conte Marina - Punta del Giglio
This route starts near Alghero from the Porto Conte marina and takes you on a 6.9km excursion to Punta del Giglio. This coastal trail offers a phenomenal view of Porto Conte bay and leads you to one of the most important caves containing the fossils of the extinct dwarf deer - the Grotta dei Cervi. The hike takes around 2 hours and is also suitable for mountain biking.
Domus de Maria & Pula
Domus de Maria is a municipality south of Sardinia, approximately 35 km southwest of Cagliari and bordered by Santadi, Teulada, and Pula from the east.
Sunny beaches characterise the Domus de Maria area, green mountains with granite peaks, and a Mediterranean scrub covering the hills emanating vibrant colours and fragrant essences.
Pula is home to much of Sardinia's natural, archaeological, and cultural heritage. The archaeological park of Nora, the ancient ruins of Capo Pula, and the lush and enchanting forest of Is Cannoneris are heaven for trekkers and hikers and a treasure trove of rare plants and rocky formations.
Cala Cipolla
The Cala Cipolla is a 13.7 km out-and-back trail near Domus de Maria, starting from the splendid Cala Cipolla cove, taking you on a coastal excursion to Tuerredda Beach. The view from here is breathtaking; the blue and emerald green waters and the beach's white sands comprise one of the most pristine spots in Sardinia. The route is moderately challenging and takes about 3,5 hours to complete. When you arrive at Tuerredda Beach, you can get to the uninhabited island with a 150m swim across the sparkling waters and enjoy the view of ancient remains of the Punic-Phoenician civilisation.
The Roman Road to Su Cordolinu
This trail starts from Pinus Village in Pula, a famous summer residence, and takes you to Su Cordolinu island along the ancient Roman Road. This excursion is 10 km that, takes less than 3 hours to complete and is one of the loveliest walks on the island. The trail is also suitable for bikers, making it a busy area for tourists and all lovers of the splendid coastal views.
With the guided tours of Sardinia Adventures, you are guaranteed to make the most of your hiking experience. All you have to do is contact our expert guides, who will arrange everything for you. Book your spot here, and let's start planning your next adventure on the remarkable island of Sardinia.
FAQs
Is Sardinia good for hiking?
With its varied scenery, exciting geological formations, and well-maintained trails, Sardinia is ideal for hiking. You have many options, whether you like coastal trails, mountain walks or spectacular gorges to conquer.
Is Sardinia suitable for walking?
Sardinia’s mountains offer a multitude of walking experiences with stunning views. Ranging from strolls to more challenging hikes, this beautiful Mediterranean island caters for all difficulties. Due to Sardinia’s mild climate, walking tours are available throughout the year.
Best day hikes in Sardinia
Sardinia offers hundreds of trails to adventurous hikers. Some of the highest-rated ones are the Passo Genna Silana, Pedra Longa, Cala Fuili, Capo Testa, Cala Antoni, Cala Mosca and many more.
Where to stay in Sardinia for hiking?
Sardinia offers opportunities across all budget ranges, from modest homestays to the most luxurious hotels. There are several areas hikers should visit, such as Cagliari for a city break, Pula for its gorgeous ancient archaeology, Carloforte on the Island of San Pietro, Oristano with its beautiful lagoons, the historical city of Alghero, Costa Paradiso with its beautiful coves and Orosei with its stunning beaches and hikes.