10 nature sites you must see on a Green Holiday to Sardinia

Sea and untouched nature. Yes, Sardinia is a true paradise for outdoor activities and has been for years one of the preferred destinations for true lovers of the outdoors, at both an amateur and competitive level.

Some say there are no mountains, but we can assure you that the many Sardinian massifs, however low, can offer unimaginable experiences and equally thrilling emotions. Being surrounded by the sea is a direct cause of the low reliefs as well as the majestic stones smoothed by the winds that take on the most varied shapes. Here are 10 ideas for an all-nature holiday in Sardinia to discover an island surrounded by the sea and a landscape incredibly full of surprises to be experienced with a personalized nature itinerary.

From the Sea to the Mountains, the Landscape you don’t expect in Sardinia

Sardinia can count on a vast territory with very little human activity, which is why it is so rich in uncontaminated charm. Entire naturalistic areas reach from the hinterland to the sea following the course of steep torrents and the paths traced by ancient charcoal burners. The coasts hide treasures unknown to most people in the south-west and in Ogliastra, while its capital, Cagliari, contains the largest nesting site for flamingos in the entire Mediterranean.

TEPILORA, SANT’ANNA AND RIO POSADA REGIONAL NATURE PARK

A wild and immense expanse of uncontaminated and fascinating nature to be discovered, starting from the forests of holm oaks and cork trees between Bitti and Lodè. The plunging into the blue sea of Posada, on the north-east coast through the river that passes through Torpè. Ideal for an active holiday in harmony with nature. You might spot the extremely rare golden eagles that still fly free here.

REGIONAL NATURAL PARK MOLENTARGIUS – SALINE

Molentargius is one of the largest metropolitan nature reserves. It is located in the heart of Cagliari, just behind the vast Poetto beach. It is a precious example of industrial archaeology in an incredible natural setting, as white as salt and as pink as the plumage of the fascinating flamingos that have chosen the salt ponds as a fixed nesting place. The area is perfect for families and can be visited on foot or by bike.

PERDA LONGA DI BAUNEI NATURAL MONUMENT

The limestone spire that stands out against the sea as the last offshoot of the Gennargentu Park in the southernmost part of the Gulf of Orosei is one of Sardinia’s most admired natural attractions. All around are stone-walls suitable for climbing (forbidden on the monument). Sa Perda (or “preda”) Longa is easily accessible to all thanks to an asphalt road that connects the square below with the road SS125. From the square, a staircase leads down to the small rocky beach below.

PAN DI ZUCCHERO AND MASUA STACKS

In the far south-west of Sardinia, the picturesque coastline of the mines overlooks a rocky clump that shares the same name as the most famous hill overlooking the beautiful Rio de Janeiro. Around it are the majestic Masua stacks and opposite the extraordinary Henry tunnel of Porto Flavia. The view from here is a spectacle for the eye. The sensation of peace and total harmony with nature is the perfect state for those seeking relaxation and for lovers of outdoor challenges. There is no shortage of climbing routes and opportunities to paddle around such splendour.

Away from the sea, the protected areas of the Sardinian Inland

Not everyone knows, or rather very few know, that Sardinia is home to a lush and extraordinary nature far beyond its enchanting beaches. From north to south, the island is an ideal holiday place all year round. Spring and autumn are probably the best times to walk in the shade of its woods, admire majestic waterfalls and discover unique fauna and traditions.

NATURAL PARK SETTE FRATELLI

From its peaks you can admire the Gulf of Angels. We are in the extreme south-east of the island in a complex of 7 peaks, the highest of which is over 1000 metres. The area is a triumph of the Mediterranean macchia, holm oaks and native animals such as the Sardinian hare and the mouflon. The villages in the park host autumn and spring festivals where you can enjoy mushrooms and strawberries. Exploring the park, it is not uncommon to come across some mysterious caves and ancient archaeological finds such as the “Tombe dei giganti” (Giants tombs) and nuraghes.

WWF OASIS OF MONTE ARCOSU

How many people know that Sardinia is home to the largest WWF oasis in Italy? It is the oasis of Monte Arcosu, south-west of Cagliari, the undisputed reign of the elegant and rare Sardinian deer. This majestic animal lives alongside the local wildlife, including a large colony of particularly friendly fallow deer. Amidst gentle hills covered with woods, springs and waterfalls, a visit to the Oasis is a must for those who want to immerse themselves in the most authentic nature. The oasis can be explored by means of a number of marked trekking trails that are sure to interest enthusiasts.

THE MONTE ARCI PARK

In the bowels of an ancient extinct volcano lies the largest deposit of obsidian in Sardinia. The most widely used mineral in prehistoric times by all the great Mediterranean civilisations. A fascinating thousand-year old history that can be retraced by walking through the ancient quarries or visiting the museum dedicated to Pau. To be explored are the sumptuous beech and holm-oak forests, the springs and the small streams that make this naturalistic area located between Marmilla and the Campidano by Oristano, one of the most interesting.

PARCO DEL LIMBARA

The large, bizarrely shaped granite massif that divides Gallura from Monte Acuto and Logudoro reaches a height of over 1300 metres at its highest point. A true paradise for mountain bikers and hikers in general. On Limbara there are at least 29 springs of excellent mineral water, all perfectly accessible, adorned with granite and set in the beautiful green landscape. It was on the Limbara that the first climbing and free-climbing routes on the island were opened.

MOUNT ALBO NATURE RESERVE

Its 13-kilometre-long ridge dominates the panorama visible from the highway SS131 from Nuoro to Olbia. The white limestone spires that create a blinding lunar landscape never descend below 1,000 metres and guard an incredible natural heritage that smells of the Mediterranean macchia and the fragrance of the sea carried by the wind. Breathtaking views and perfectly signposted paths lead to the discovery of mysterious caves and incredible evidence of the ancient Nuragic civilization.

SA SPENDULA WATERFALLS

A water spectacle just outside the town of Villacidro in south-west Sardinia. A three parted 60m-high waterfall creates three natural pools that cut through the lush surrounding mountains. The waters come from the nearby Mount Linas, which dominates the village. Sa Spendula is the perfect destination for a family picnic but also a destination for interesting excursions for trekking enthusiasts to discover this fascinating area.

How to visit a Sardinian Nature Site: some Ideas and Activities to do

Sardinia is an authentic open-air gym that offers unique views and terrain for testing oneself. Its rock faces are perfect for free climbing and sport climbing enthusiasts, and the mysterious gorges are the base for canyoning. The rivers lend themselves to kayaking, and there is no shortage of people who choose Sardinia for water trekking. There are many marked hiking trails with various levels of difficulty for trekking and hiking. Last but not least, Sardinia is perfect for a bicycle trip, but also for testing yourself by experiencing exciting trails on mountain bikes.

So if you need more information, please contact us!