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Sardinian Secrets

8 days, Self-Guided for 2 people or more, Seasonal Weekly Departures

Italian Sardinia, only 13 km away from French Corsica, is a gem of unspoilt villages and mountain paths. The inhabitants of the mountains have maintained their traditional practices: in the white-washed villages you will encounter elderly ladies still veiled in black from head-totoe and shepherds in their brown corduroy suits.
The old shepherd trails you walk start by winding through rolling hills and meadows filled with wild flowers, and lead on to the high plateaus of the Supramonte Massif. Staying near the village of Oliena for three nights you have time to absorb the relaxing atmosphere here before walking to the coast. You pass the Su Gologone grotto, Sardinia's largest spring, gushing with clear sparkling water, and walk through pine forests to reach the jagged sea cliffs and rocky creeks of the beautiful Gulf of Orosei. During the week you will gain a real insight into local life as you pass through villages and cross a variety of terrain encompassing spectacular views, mingled with the scents of rosemary, rockrose and sea lavender. Altogether a relaxing trip mixing traditional culture and idyllic peaceful walking.
Day 1. Outbound
Fly to Alghero and spend a night in this buzzing town, exploring the street-side restaurants and cafes.
Days 2 to 4. Supramonte Massif
Travel to Nuoro and on to the village of Oliena at the foot of the Supramonte Massif where you will stay in a comfortable local hotel. You can walk to the summit of Monte Corrasi (1348 metres) with its airy views of wild beauty. The deep limestone gorges are home to eagles, moufflon and you might even spy the odd boar! Another day takes you through oak and pine woods, down to the maze of small streets of authentic Oliena. The hilly fields surrounding the village are clad with vines whose grapes are used to make the famous Sardinian wine.
Days 5 to 7. Cala Gonone
Passing the spring of Su Gologone, which produces an enormous 300 litres of water per second, you walk to the village to Monte Tiscali hidden deep in the mountains. Tiscali is the site of the first settlers, the Nuraghi, who arrived between 1500 and 500BC and is of extreme importance to the archaeological world. A short three hour walk the following day takes you down to sea level and the busy little village of Cala Gonone, which until recently was only accessible by boat.
With the sparkling water beckoning you after the days in the mountains you may choose to take a boat trip to one of the many secluded sandy beaches, which are abundant along this coastline. After another night in Cala Gonone you walk the coastal path to Cala Luna, a sandy cove accessible only by sea or foot, with its inspiring soaring cliffs. The trail winds over the cliffs through fragrant juniper and thyme with majestic views of the Mediterranean stretching into the distance. Whilst eating your picnic lunch you will be able to bask in the tranquillity of this perfect Sardinian setting. Overall this leisurely paced walking itinerary provides an excellent holiday for those seeking rest in the warmth of the Mediterranean sun and air.
Day 8. Homeward
Transfer back to Alghero for the flight home feeling rested and full of energy.
Sardinia

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  • Tour grade: B.
  • Cost per person: From £695 land only.
  • Single supplement: £95.
  • What is include: Accommodation, airport transfers, baggage transfers, most meals, maps and route notes.
  • Accommodation: Hotels.
  • Departure dates:
    Every Saturday or Sunday (flight dependent), April to October.