Summer 2020, a new unusual hiking season
So here we are finally with some hiking destinations for the summer of 2020.
Sardinia, with its 24 thousand square kilometers of surface, is the third Italian region by extension, and with its 1.64 million inhabitants, it has a population density that normally does not exceed 64 inhabitants per square kilometer. To put it more simply, there is more than enough space for social distancing in this wild island and hiking destinations couldn't be further from being crowded tourist traps.
Each activity featured on these pages are normally intended for small groups (4-6-8 people) but indeed, it is also possible to apply for an exclusive excursion (private tour) or to propose personalized formulas of the destinations that you will find listed below (tailor made).
Either you live on the island or you come from other Italian regions or even from abroad, here you will find some ideas to plan your summer excursions in Sardinia!
Regarding via ferratas, if you are not a complete beginner, I would recommend the Via Ferrata della Regina (almost entirely in the shade even in the height of summer) or the more classic climb on the island of Tavolara which is rather demanding physically but never gets too technical.
Concerning some easier hiking routes, I suggest giving a go to the acquatrek (river trekking) experience if you haven't tried it yet! It is a new way of walking in nature in the summer in a rather pleasant and relaxing manner as instead of following a path you follow a clear and refreshing stream. On the brand new page dedicated to this particular activity you will find a list of routes for all tastes, from a couple of relaxing hours to a more demanding and captivating experience.
As for the more technical routes we have an infinite choice of Adventure Routes (scrambling & abseiling) or even the possibility to choose between dry canyoning (Codula Fuili) and its wet counterpart (Rio Pitrisconi)!
For any further information, do not hesitate to reach me via the contact form on the contact page.
NOTE all rented technical equipment follows the isolation procedures indicated by the manufacturers, including washing at 40 degrees for materials that can endure (gloves, wetsuits) or by a 7-14 days long quarantine period (dpi , backpacks) before being reused (for this reason particular attention must be paid when returning the equipment). During hiking activities there is no obligation to use facial masks or gloves, however the distance of 2 meters established by the law must be respected. Furthermore the obligation of wearing a mask remains valid before and after the excursion.
Acquatrek (River Trekking)
Acquatrek (or river trekking) is a form of hiking that is carried out by following the bed of a stream or a river, sometimes walking partially immersed in water, sometimes swimming for short distances. To sum it up we could say that the path is replaced by the watercourse allowing us to enjoy wonderful summer walks without suffering from the heat.
In Sardinia there are about fifteen rivers which due to their beauty and simple approachability are perfectly suitable for the practice of acquatrekking.
Via Ferrata della Regina
The Via Ferrata della Regina is suitable for expert walkers ideally with previous experience on vie ferrate.
The via ferrata is reached with a short approach along an easy path which leads under the cliff from the small and elegant village of Monteleone Rocca Doria. Just after the old spring "Funtana 'e ziu Ainzu" you find the start of the via ferrata, a steep vertical section. The via ferrata also features a Tibetan bridge.
Via Ferrata di Pentumas
S'Istrada Minore commonly known as the “Via Ferrata di Badde Pentumas” is an itinerary for expert walkers or those accompanied by a guide.
The via ferrata climbs up a succession of ledges on the right wall of the canyon, a stone’s throw from the stunning Lanaitho valley (Oliena). This truly wild setting plus the sheer scale of the surrounding environment makes this excursion very thrilling.
Rio Pitrisconi canyon
The Pitrisconi Canyon (Rio Pitrisconi) is a deep rocky valley, almost a canyon, cut into the porphory of Monte Nieddu, just behind the small tourist centre of San Teodoro/Budditogliu.
The gorge – also a popular destination for walks – is suitable for canyoning, that is, descending following the water course, with jumps and enjoyable slides and using ropes to descend the waterfalls which are present for most of the summer.
Codula Fuili Canyon
Codula Fuili is a small but evocative canyon which is cut into the limestone of the Golfo di Orosei, just a few km from Cala Gonone. To descend it you need to use harnesses and ropes. Although there is no water, this is a classic canyoning tour.
The conformation of this “codula” means that beginners can try out canyoning for the first time without undue stress and enjoy the really unspoiled surroundings. In some points the gorge is so narrow that you can touch both walls at the same time!
Tavolara Island
The Island of Tavolara towers out of the sea. With its sheer 565 m elevation (Punta Cannone) it rises majestically opposite the Golfo di Olbia.
The climb to its summit is worthy of the Alps, both for the considerable height gain and because there are numerous rocky sections along the path that weaves up towards the crest. The final section up the wall barring the way to the summit is equipped with fixed ropes that allow you to progress using via ferrata self-belay techniques.
Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for the ascent. In winter the visibility is often not very good, while in summer you have to make an early start.