DILLON, PADDY
This guide explores 50 walks in the highest and wildest regions of Sardinia. The island lies in the Mediterranean, off the west coast of Italy and south of Corsica. It has long attracted visitors to its beaches, but what of the walking? This guide unlocks the remote and secret potential of the island's mountains and coastline away from the bustle of the resorts.
The walks described in this guide uncover the cliff coastline of Ogliastra, and the mountainous inland areas of Supramonte and Gennargentu. It is only in recent years that these areas have become walkable with the paths being cleared and waymarked. Now the rugged beauty of the coast and the macchia-covered hillsides and rocky mountain summits are waiting and ready to be explored.
This guidebook is an ideal companion to exploring the wild, mountain potential in Sardinia. The routes range from shorter, easier rambles to more challenging walks, ensuring that there are routes for all abilities. As well as detailed route descriptions, the guide includes practical information on travel to and around Sardinia, language and currency, accommodation, mountain safety and details on the many sights along the way.
All routes are illustrated with sketch maps and spectacular photography.
Information on the historic and cultural sights of Sardinia you can expect to see, from the megalithic, to Roman to the present day.
Many of the routes can be adapted and joined together, providing the walker with all the tools to create their own itineraries.
Seasons
spring is the best season for temperate weather and flowers; autumn is also good; summer tends to be too hot; there may be rain and low cloud in winter, with snow on the higher mountains
Centres
Nuoro, Oliena, Dorgali, Baunei, Lotzoraí, Ulassai, Laconi, Aritzo, Tonara, Fonni, Teti, Sedilo; most of the walks are accessible by bus
Difficulty
some short routes, while others are long and difficult, sometimes traversing remote and rugged mountains; careful navigation is needed when walking away from trodden routes. Several paths and tracks have been cleared, signposted and waymarked in recent years
Must See
rugged limestone coast of Ogliastra, Golgo plateau, the wild Supramonte, granite mountains of Gennargentu, Punta La Marmora, newly-waymarked forest trails, traditional shepherds paths and mule trails through dense macchia, quaint historic mountain villages