Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
16.0Kg CO2e
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Stunning Sardinia immediately evokes images of sparkling emerald waters lapping idyllic white sand beaches, but away from the stylish resorts of the Costa Smeralda, the island remains relatively undiscovered, with a mountainous inner heartland contrasting with its wildlife rich marshes, remote headlands and picture perfect shores.
This 7 night self guided holiday takes you on an impossibly scenic discovery of western Sardinia's natural beauty, from the maquis scented slopes of the wild black Montiferru mountains to the prolific birdlife of the Sinis wetlands, and from rugged limestone cliffs dotted with panoramic watch towers to the picture perfect sand and white quartz beaches of the Sinis peninsula.
Of course Sardinia is also an archaeologist's delight, boasting a historical treasure trove of ancient settlements, including the fascinating Roman site of Tharros which spans no less than 2000 years of history. Other man made highlights include the early Christian basilica of San Giovanni and the quirky village of San Giovanni Sinis, reminiscent of the American wild west, which sits completely unpopulated apart from one week a year when a religious festival brings it to life.
Your accommodation for the week is carefully chosen family run hotels and B&Bs which highlight the very best of Sardinian hospitality, including a converted 18th century aristocrat's residence, which is now part of the 'Slow Food' movement and a hacienda style hotel surrounded by lush gardens.
This holiday follows mainly sandy and stony coastal paths, agricultural tracks, and quiet country lanes. There are mainly gentle ascents and descents which are steeper on days 2 and 3, with a very short section of scrambling on day 2. Walking boots are essential throughout. There are clifftop walks on days 4 and 5 but these should not pose a problem for people with a fear of heights.
Arrive in the sleepy mountain village of Santu Lussurgiu. Explore its maze of winding alleyways that cascade down the hillside, before dinner.
You stay at Antica Dimora del Gruccione.
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This lovely, family run 'albergo diffuso' (scattered hotel) comes with tastefully decorated rooms - with kettle! - in a traditional style reflecting the history of both the hotel and Santu Lussurgiu. There is a quiet courtyard inside the huge wooden gates that form the entrance as well as a charming garden with fruit trees. The dining area is in vaulted rooms on the ground floor and the food is of great repute locally, as the owner is a key member of the ‘slow food’ movement, which promotes the production of traditional foods in traditional ways. Guests are also free to make use of the hotel's bar and library.
Head uphill with sweeping views over the Gennargentu mountains to the little village of San Leonardo, famous for its crystal clear spring water. Enjoy the Sunday market and a leisurely lunch in one of the many cafes, then it's an easy downhill back to Santu Lussurgiu, past the statue of Christ which keeps its panoramic watch over the village.
We take you to the Montiferru Mountain, then admire the coastal vistas as you descend through oak forest, olive groves and tranquil pastures to the spectacular turquoise bay of Santa Caterina di Pittinuri. Relax by the sea before we take you to your next accommodation.
You stay at Is Benas Country Lodge.
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Is Benas Country Lodge is set in the peaceful Sardinian countryside: lush Mediterranean gardens made of native and imported plants frame this elegant accommodation and ensure a relaxed stay.
All 18 rooms at Is Benas Country Club are decorated in a country style and are equipped with en suite facilities, TV and air conditioning.
The property feature its own outdoor pool. You can relax on the terrace, which is complete with sun loungers and parasols. Ideal after a day spent walking!
The onsite restaurant offers a delicious mix of Sardinian and Italian cuisine, accompanied by a vast selection of local wines. Is Benas has been collaborating for years with the nearby vineyards of Evaristiano winery to produce its very own local wine: the Summum.
Your walk starts at Is Benas lagoon, home to grey herons and pink flamingos. Then follow a clifftop path to the pristine sands of Su Pallosu beach. There's the option to walk to Capo Mannu with its clifftop lighthouse and ancient Spanish watchtowers to enjoy far reaching sea vistas. End the day in Putzu Idu, a favourite spot for surfers.
You stay at Hotel Raffael.
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The Hotel Raffael is just a short walk from the white sand beach and close to the hills and salt-water ponds that make this location so peaceful. There's a lovely outdoor pool set in immaculate Mediterranean gardens, as well as bar, restaurant and spacious and modern rooms.
From the terrace there are views across the bay to the Montiferru Mountains.
Set off along the limestone cliffs of Su Tingiosu, rich in birdlife, before reaching the stunning beaches of Is Arutas and Mari Ermi where fine grains of white quartz form the sands.
You stay at Agriturismo Sannoranna.
Nestled within the heart of the Sinis region, Agriturismo Sannoranna has five spacious and traditional rooms all with their own private bathroom. Unwind on the veranda before enjoying an array of traditional dishes.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
A peaceful wander through the idyllic countryside will lead you towards the coast where you can visit the 'outdoor museum' of Tharros. Extend your journey by heading towards Capo San Marco and walk through the ancient site dating back to the 8th century BC.
Pass through artichoke fields, vineyards and olive groves to the quirky uninhabited village of San Salvatore Sinis. Famous for its Roman hypogeum (underground temple) and as the film set for spaghetti westerns! Carry on past the Cabras lagoon, the largest in the area and the perfect stop for a Sardinian lunch, try the local bottarga (cured fish roe) and Vernaccia wine! Continue to bustling Cabras itself, the main town on the Sinis peninsula.
You stay at Hotel Villa Canu.
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Situated in central Cabras, the Villa Canu dates back to the late 1800s when its cool ground floor rooms were used to store bread, wine and wheat. Today this family run hotel comes with pretty bedrooms decorated in traditional Sardinian colours as well as a lovely outdoor pool and renowned fish restaurant, which is just 150m from the hotel.
We do not currently have departure dates and prices available on-line. The season may have ended for this tour, or we are still in the process of adding these details to our website.
Please contact our sales team on 01606 720199 to for further details or to discuss alternavie trip options.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
16.0Kg CO2e
Navigation App
