costa smeralda

San Pantaleo village 
Departure to San Pantaleo, along the internal panoramic road where we can admire the wonderful granite rocks. It is the most particular village of Gallura: small streets and squares, cute terraces and artisan’s labs. San Pantaleo has been rediscovered by numerous artists, as Olaf Christiansen and his wife Eliane, painters as Pat Steel and Michele Greco. Possibility of lunch in a cute restaurant in the city centre, where you could taste the specialties of traditional Gallura dishes mixed with novelle cuisine.



Ethnographic museum in Aggius 
The ethnographic Museum in Aggius (514 m above the sea level, about 60 km from Porto Cervo), a very important place which stores the preciousness of the Sardinian culture. The exposition includes a variety of items: ancient typical costumes and jewels, musical instruments, tools for colouring the wool, for working wood and granite, for wine and bread production. A professional guide will answer to all of your questions and will satisfy your curiosity about our island. After visiting the museum, we will be able to choose or combine a cooking class, where we will learn how to prepare fresh pasta or a typical Sardinian bread and an artisan textile laboratory, to learn how to weave and colour the fabrics, which are normally used to create the typical Sardinian costumes.

Museum visit duration: about 30 minutes.

After the activity, possibility of lunch in an ancient farmhouse on the hills near Aggius: typical "zuppa gallurese", roasted suckling pig and "seada" as dessert will be served in a cozy atmosphere.

Gallura wine tasting 
The Surrau winery dominates over 40 hectars of farmlands mostly cultivated with vineyards spreading out in a sunny valley caressed by the northwest wind coming from the coast. The project was born through the harmonious blending of buildings and nature. Glass walls both exalt the landscape when looking out and illustrate the winemaking activities when looking in. Spaces are laid out in a sequence of work rooms, tasting rooms and showrooms in an attempt to optimize processing spaces and expose modern methods for vinification and wine preservation. The wines produced are destined for the global market and are embassadors of the hard lands of Gallura. We wil visit the cellar, the winery and then we will taste some wine accompanied by typical Sardinian products: Carasau bread, olives, cold cuts and cheese.

Cellar visit duration: about 30 minutes

Arzachena archeological tour
Arzachena offers to its visitors many archaeological remains and monuments of great value:

Nuraghe Albucciu - This irregular shaped Nuraghe dates back to 1600 a.C. and belongs to the so-called “Corridor" group (or “Protonuraghi" group): it has a half-rectangular ground plan and its walls are made up by granite dry stones, except a part which is substituted by a large granite rock.  On top of the surface, there are eight brackets that support the wooden balustrade. The only entrance to the Nuraghe is located on the east side and introduces to a trapezoidal corridor. On the right side there is a cell linked to the northern part of the Nuraghe by a narrow passageway.
In front of the entrance, on the west side, there are wooden stairs that lead to the fortress where the towers used to be. Around the complex there are the ruins of the ancient round huts which were part of the Nuragic village.

Malchittu Temple Nuragic - it is an ancient megaron-style temple located near Arzachena (North Sardinia) dating back to Nuragic Bronze Age (1600 - 1300 B.C.). It is built like a small medieval chappel about 14 meters long and 6 meters wide. The interior is divided into two parts: an entrance irregularly quadrangular and a larger rectangular room with rounded corners in wich we can see a small altar and remains of benches around the walls. Inside the temple is also an oak, whose roots have wrapped up the boulders that have become part of the tree.

Giants tomb Li Longhi - The tombs of the giants’ is an enormous Sardinian gallery grave. Built during the bronze age by the Nuraghic civilization, it shows the true strength of the Sardinian people during the megalithic period. Popular folklore holds that these tombs were the burial site for giants that once dominated the mountainous lands in western Sardinia. The average Sardinian is small in stature, thus leading archaeologists to believe that these tombs were instead used as a site for massive and multiple burials.

Giants grave of Coddu Vecchiu – it is one of the best preserved in this region, located on a slope in a hilly area. It was built in two stages: during the Middle Bronze Age (c.1600-1400 BC) the exedra was added to a pre-existing megalithic tomb dating from the Early Bronze Age (c.1800-1600 BC), transforming the structure into a giants’ tomb. The tomb consists of a main semicircular front (exedra) and a burial chamber.

La Prisgiona - the Nuraghe “La Prisgiona” currently looks like a pile of rubble and only a few elements can be noticed that confirm the supposed grandeur of the building. The Nuraghe La Prisgiona is located on the top of a granitic hill that dominates other nuraghi below and from which the view extends as far as the hills of the Pedres Castle. It was built using large blocks of granite roughly squared and small stones for the filling. It has never been excavated.

Quad Adventure Costa Smeralda

Discover Costa Smeralda and Gallura in a fun way: by ATV- Quad. With departure from Porto Cervo the tour immediately heads for an off road route to admire the coast from high-up, then carrying on to the Old Town of San Pantaleo and then on an emotional journey that in just few hours will reach the peak of Monte Pinu. For lunch a stop in a cool wood where there is a granitic water spring.

The return journey will be along tracks immersed in Mediterranean bushes. Once back to the sea level there will be some kilometres off-road to get to a marvellous little cove on the Costa Smeralda where there will be a break for a lovely swim in crystal water.

Jeep tour

Discover the hidden side of Sardinia: Gallura, land of granite, a few kilometres from Costa Smeralda. On 4x4 vehicles from the coast to the highest peak of Monte Pinu along typical trails of the Mediterranean area surrounded by the local vegetation. From the top of the mount you can admire a unique view all around: island of Tavolara , town of Olbia, Costa Smeralda and la Maddalena Archipelago. Next step is Lake Liscia where our restaurant will offer a delicious typical Gallura Lunch. After lunch the tour will proceed to the archaeological sites: Giants Tomb of Su Coddu Ecchju and nuragic village La Prisgiona.



Mountain bike Tour 

The coast line and the inland area of Gallura offer a wide possibility to organize different guided mountain bike tours that will be tailored specificly for your needs. There are different levels of off road and on road excursion that will bring you to see amazing and unexpected views just few kilometres away from your yacht. 



Helicopter tour Costa Smeralda and Maddalena’s Archipelago 

Give yourself a magic tour flying comfortably above the Emerald Coast and the Maddalena’s park by Helicopter. You will fly over the most striking locations and see the most famous views all around the world. The itinerary is: Capo Ferro, Porto Cervo,Spiaggia Del Pevero, Punta Capaccia, Romazzino, Spiaggiadel Principe, Spiaggia Capriccioli, Spiaggia La Celvia, Caladi Volpe, Spiaggia Liscia Ruja, Spiaggia Le Roccette,Spiaggia Rena Bianca, Portisco, Spiaggia Ira, Porto Rotondo, Punta Volpe, Villa Certosa (Berlusconi), Spiaggia Marinella, Spiaggia Cala Sabina, Isola Mortorio e Soffi, Isola Li Nibani, Liscia Di Vacca, Poltu Quatu, Baja Sardinia, Isola Di Caprera, Compendio Casa Di Garibaldi, Spiaggia Del Relitto, Spiagge Di Taiti (Cala Coticcio), Isola Delle Bisce, Cala Granu, The Islands Of La Maddalena, Santo Stefano, Santa Maria, Razzoli, Budelli, Spargi, Lavezzi, Cavallo, Piana, With A Fly Over Bonifacio And Its Bays.

The Helicopter is a monoengine Eurocopter AS350BA; the passenger can be maximum 5, or if you want a guide maximum 4. The expert guide a part of an illustration of all the areas will be assisting the passengers in everything.

Aquadream Waterpark

The magic of water, the joy of sun, the cheerfulness of fun.The waterpark is situated just few kilometres from Porto Cervo and offer a very good range of water game for children of all ages and adults. Moreover, different services as indoor game room, lockers, infirmary, dream shop, photo, relax area, parking, lookout point.



Oki Doki Playground

Public playgound of 3000 squared metres, built with ecological materials located in Abbiadori Costa Smeralda. The playground was built entirely with funds raised from a series of events organized over a period of 2 years, combined with donations that my committee sourced from locals, foreign property owners, and tourists alike.

The efforts continue today in the fund-raising required for the maintenance of the playground which has become a very popular focus for children and families of all nationalities on the coast year round. It is a unique project, achieved only through drive and sheer determination.

HotelRomazzino Toy Club

WINETASTING VINEYARDS WITH 4X4 OR GOLF CAR

Sardinia is all over dominated by thousands hectares of valleys and hills cultivated with vineyards. A visit through sunny and breezy valleys by Truck or Golfcar is a must: you will be surrounded by a bucolic atoshpere and a Sommelier will guide you in tasting the best wines of the island. The tour is organized in a picnic style.

SHOPPING IN PORTO CERVO



Porto Cervo, the symbol of Costa Smeralda and the undisputed kingdom of luxury holidays, is a small and charming village by the sea, an architectural gem set in an area of natural beauty. The most prestigious fashion houses, the most exclusive jewelers, the finestcraftsmanship. “La Passeggiata” of Porto Cervo is a shopping paradise disputed by the most International Brands: from Bulgari and Dolce & Gabbana, Versace to Valentino, Prada, Trussardi, from Rossetti to Cartier. Brands always wishful to have a venue overlooking to the street tiled of antique cotto.



SARDINIAN COOKING CLASS

The Sardinian cuisine is somewhat variegated and mainly characterized by its island-status and its agropastoral culture, enriched during the centuries throughout contaminations, contacts and trades with other peoples. Vary and simple at the same time it ranges from roasted meats, to the bread tradition, the pecorino cheeses, the wines, from the sea and from the land dishes, the game meat, the fishing or the gathering of natural herbs. It is considered to be an important part of the Mediterranean diet and it was declared masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity in 2010 by UNESCO. Afterwords a Michelin-starred chef is available for a sophisticated cooking class.



CORK TOUR



In Sardinia many rural landscapes are characterised by cork trees, which have environmental, social and economic value. Sardinia is home to approximately 80% of Italy’s cork oak forests. The Region’s production, which is 5% of global output, covers approximately 50% of the demand from the local processing industry; the rest is covered by regular imports from the Iberian Peninsula, North Africa and nearby Corsica. The main processing facilities are concentrated in upper Gallura, located in the North-East side of the Island. Cork Museum in Calangianus is one of the most important ones in Gallura and North Sardinia. It is located inside an ex Capuchins monks monastery. It’s also possible to find pictures of artisians working the cork, alternative ways to work the cork (labs) and cork artisan shops. 
Anna Grindi works magic in this innovative clothing shop, which sells dresses, shoes and bags made entirely of native Sardinian cork. Using a process developed and patented by Grindi herself, cork from local oak trees is converted into the waterproof, fireproof, supple and light-as-silk fabric that you see displayed throughout the store.

SAN PANTALEO VILLAGE



Located in the hills above the gorgeous and famous Costa Smeralda of Sardinia, the town of San Pantaleo is an idyllic spot. It has a history that dates to 800 BC but was really developed as a destination around the turn of the last century. That makes it older than the other Costa Smeralda towns, most of which were planned tourism destinations in the 1960s. Here you'll find an amiable village atmosphere with a bohemian vibe. It has long been popular with artists and writers, drawn to the immense beauty and natural splendor of the area.
The town itself centers on the pretty Piazzetta, the entertainment hub for the residents. It is here that the colorful weekly open-air market takes place every Thursday.

Arzachena offers to its visitors many archaeological remains and monuments of great value. One of them is The Nuraghe La Prisjona. The Nuraghe “La Prisgiona” currently looks like a pile of rubble and only a few elements can be noticed that confirm the supposed grandeur of the building. It is located on the top of a granitic hill that dominates other nuraghi below and from which the view extends as far as the hills of the Pedres Castle. It was built using large blocks of granite roughly squared and small stones for the filling. It has never been excavated. The Nuragic complex overlooks a large area in Capichera locality. The dimension of the nuraghe, its complexity and architectonical features attest the peculiarity of this site and its importance in this territory. It is a complex nuraghe, and its tholos tipology (with false dome) is rather unusual in the territory of Gallura. It consists of a central tower (mastio) and two side towers englobed in a rampart. The main tower is characterised by a giant lintel (3,20m). The central chamber, with tholos vault and three niches set in the shape of a cross, is 6m high.



JEEP TOUR



Discover the hidden side of Sardinia: Gallura, land of granite, a few kilometers from Costa Smeralda. On 4x4 vehicles from the coast to the highest peak of Monte Pinu along typical trails of the Mediterranean area surrounded by the local vegetation. From the top of the mount you can admire a unique view all around: island of Tavolara , town of Olbia, Costa Smeralda and la Maddalena Archipelago. Next step is Lake Liscia where our restaurant will offer a delicious typical Gallura Lunch. After lunch the tour will proceed to the archaeological sites: Giants Tomb of Su Coddu Ecchju and nuragic village La Prisjona.



HORSE RIDING TOUR



Horse riding is a way to approach an environment with a high naturalistic value, uncontaminated areas and  stunning panoramas, communities that maintain traditions and culture from the past, flavours and fragrances sometimes thought as disappeared. Leaving the stables you will take easy paths and farm roads in the nature, that run along white sand beaches, small lagoons, ponds and a sea with thousands of shades of blue. Experienced instructors will guide you in this marvellous experience.



FROM THE GARDEN TO THE POT

In Cascioni Eco Retreat, every dish is a work of art inspired by the generosity of the Earth. It all starts with a basket under your arm, a walk through the rows of the vegetable garden and inside the henhouse. The experience continues with the creation of original vegetarian recipes, a perfect synthesis of the shapes, flavours and colours of the harvest of the day.

The experience of 2 hours includes: Chef at your disposal, English-speaking assistance, recipe book and certificate of attendance, accompanying tasting, water and glasses of wine.

TAVOLARA ISLAND

The island of Tavolara is a majestic limestone massif that rises to 565 meters above the sea level. It is a pearl of Gallura.
Island stands suspended in a stretch of sea among the wildest and amazing of the Mediterranean. We’ll hike and face an easy protected climbing route (EEA) leading us on the top of insland.

When in 1848 Carlo Alberto, king of Piedont and Sardinia, went to the island to hunt the mytical goats with golden fangs (occurrence caused by the kind of grass eaten by the animals), so in love with the island he named the only habitant Paolo Bertolini ‘ king of Tavolara with an official letter. Today the beautiful island of Tavolara, situated near the north-eastern coasts of Sardinia, not far from the famous Costa Smeralda, together with the islands of Molara, Proratora, Ruja and farther Molarotto are the main features of an amazing marine area rich in Mediterranean colors. With a series of inlets, beaches, bays, and promontories, the protected area extends from Capo Ceraso to Capo Coda Cavallo. Its naturalistic features and enchanting landscape, as well as its historical events, make it one of the most interesting sites of the Mediterranean.  The coastal stretch is characterized by small and isolated bays alternating with very long falcate beaches, among high rocky promontories. The beach bars with their characteristic white and rose-colored sands, face a crystal-like sea shading from turquoise to indigo to blue. Paradise for divers, the area offewrs as well interisting historical and trekking itineraries.

There are two main docking options close to Tavolara island:

Marina di Costa Corallina

Marina di Puntaldia

ARCHEOLOGICAL MUSEUM

On the islet Peddone, a few steps from the old port, the archaeological museum of Olbia, the main town of Gallura, exhibits a complete overview of the civilizations developed in Sardinia. 

To symbolize its position on the sea and the role played by the port city in history, the museum has the shape of a ship moored with circular windows and suspended walkways. The exhibition, dedicated to port and city, traces the Phoenician, Greek, Punic, Roman, medieval, modern and contemporary eras. The museum itinerary is divided into two floors.

ROMAN AQUEDUCT

The aqueduct of Olbia was built by the Romans between the I and II centuries. a.C., to collect water coming from the springs of Mount Cabu Abbas. In Sa Rughittula the aqueduct acquires larger dimensions, with a large settling basin dug completely into the stone with a barrel vault and provided with six holes for ventilation. On the sides of the cistern there are two other smaller tanks and a water inlet and outlet shaft. On the arches you can still see the water transport canals.

CASTLE OF PEDRES 



This medieval fortress was built in the 13th century, when the Giudicato of Gallura was under the rule of the Visconti of Pisa. The stronghold was also used in the following centuries, thanks to its remarkable strategic position, and then was abandoned after the 15th century. Originally there were four towers and a more complex structure than the current remains suggest. The majestic main tower is the only one that we can still admire today.


GIANT'S TOMBS IN SU MONT'E S'ABE

In front of the castle of Pedres, near the town of Olbia, a halo of mystery surrounds a place of nuragic burials. In the tomb of Giganti de su mont'e s'Abe (or s'Ape), unlike the thousands of prehistoric burials of its kind, the deceased were buried collectively. In the funeral hall were officiated the sacred rites related to the deceased but here, compared to what happened elsewhere, were not found in the sacred well funeral documents that accompanied the deceased until conjunction with
the deity.


SACRED WELL SA TESTA



It was unearthed in the 1930s, during the search for a water source. It is not by chance that the sacred well sa Testa was chosen by the nuragic civilization that inhabited the territory of Gallura to honor the gods of the water. Today it is a great attraction for lovers of archaeology and, in particular, of the nuragic culture. The ancient sanctuary, dating from the 15th to the 13th century BC, stands at the exit from the town of Olbia and has a structure of less than eighteen meters long, made of granite, trachyte and shale, cut into carefully worked blocks.


SAINT PAUL'S CHURCH



Dating back to the eighteenth century, the Church of San Paolo is somewhat the heart of the historic center of Olbia: its dome made with mosaic majolica of various colors, captures attention from afar. The church built on the ancient ruins on which stood the Punic and Roman temple today is one of the most visited places in Olbia. The body, the bell tower, the dome and the chapels make the church take the form of a cross.


NURAGHE CABU ABBAS



This Nuraghe is located a few kilometres from Olbia and dates back to the 1440 B.C. The outstanding thing about this Nauraghic monument is its position. The Nuraghe was built on top of a hill which dominates the Golfo of Olbia and offers an ample view of the whole area. The position was of great strategic importance because from it was presumably possible to keep the entire area under control and check for enemy incursions.Historians still disagree as to the real use of Nuraghe in general and also as
to why they were built in the way they were, so we cannot exclude that perhaps the Nuraghe were used for entirely different aims.The archaeological excavations which were carried out in 1939 brought to light objects pertaining to the Nauraghic, Punic and Roman manufacture which were probably offerings to the gods and would seem to testify the worshipping of natural water springs that spans much farther than the Nuragic era.


OLBIA SHOPPING & CITY TOUR



Transfer to the centre of Olbia. The guide will show you the most important monuments of the city: The Romanic Church of San Simplicio entirely in granite, encircled by a square in which canbe noted various military Roman stones, and the Church of San Paolo, dating back to the middleof the 18th century, characterized by a rectangular body and three peaks which lend the buildingsomething of the appearance of a cross. After this visit, we will have free time for walking, shopping and lunch in Corso Umberto, the main street of the city centre.


PORTO ROMANO LOCAL MARKET



Market Porto Romano is in the heart of Olbia, right next to Corso Umberto I, the main street of the historic center, convenient for parking of Via Nanni thanks to the entry of Via Porto Romano. Every Tuesday morning from April to September with time 8: 00-13: 00 offers local products, gastronomic specialties, crafts, artists, music and entertainment.


WINE TASTING



Tenute Olbios is a wine-growing and wine-producing company where the attention for little things reigns and that alone can lead to great results. The building is an ancient industrial fold in Gallura, entirely renewed in the past years, highlighting the original structure and the construction peculiarity. The technical area is equipped with up-to-date italian machinery and is divided in different operative areas.  This mix of ancient and modern, tradition and innovation distinguishes and gives character to our cellar and our wine-making production.

BASILICA DI SAN SIMPLICIO

This Basilica represents the most important and ancient religious monument of north eastern Sardinia and is the oldest proof available that can testify to the spreading of Christianity on the island. It was built between the end of the XI century and the beginning of the XII century on a site which had previously seen a roman basilica and a small early Christian church dated 594 and 611.The basilica is dedicated to the memory of San Simplicio, bishop of the city and martyr to the emperor Diocleziano.

GARIBALDI MUSEUM - CAPRERA

The beautiful island of Caprera maintains on its territory the compendium of the Garibaldi era which includes buildings and objects which once belonged to Giuseppe Garibaldi. Giuseppe Garibaldi was a general, a group leader and an Italian patriot who was one of the most important figures of the Italian renaissance due to his importance in unifying Italy. Known also as the hero of the two worlds because of his military achievements both in Europe and America, Giuseppe Garibaldi spent the last few years of his life on the island of Caprera in what he considered as voluntary exile. The buildings he housed until his death are today a beautiful museum. It is possible to admire, amongst other things, the General’s Arms and Banners as well as the original furniture.

LA MADDALENA PANORAMIC & SHOPPING TOUR

Starting from La Maddalena city center, walking distance from the port of Cala Gavetta, the guests accompanied by an expert guide will follow the panoramic street by van. We will visit the isle Giardinelli, which is linked to the mainland through an isthmus, the creek of Spalmatore and, on the Northern part, the Porto Lungo. Afterwards, from Cala Lunga we will go direction West, where we could admire the creeks of Stagno Torto and the beaches of Monti della Rena. Then, we will go towards the internal and wildest part of the island and reach the panoramic Forte dei Colmi with a view on Spargi isles, santa Maria, Budelli and Razzoli. We will go on direction Cala Francese, Nido D’Aquila and we will end the bus tour at Cala Gavetta, near the harbour. Possibility of different stops for pictures and a swim. A shopping tour in the typical shops of city center and/or the visit to Garibaldi museum can be added to the tour.

Seven main well known islands (Maddalena, Caprera, Santo Stefano, Spargi, Budelli, Razzoli a Santa Maria) form the Maddalena’s Archipleago which became park at the begininning of 1997, becoming at the same time the first National Park in Sardinia. The seven islands known as Cuniculariae (rabbits islands) during the Roman period are famous for their natural beauty done by irregular coasts, rocks erase from the wind and the strong presence of the typical Mediterranean brush. The Archipelago, located in the stretch of between Sardinia and Corsica known as Bocche di Bonifacio, is part of the European network of areas of great environmental importance (Site of Community Importance and Special Protection Area) for the presence of unique habitats and creatures. The 62 islands and islets forming the Archipelago cover a surface area of 5,134 ha, 15,046 ha in the sea. The National Park covers - including land and marine areas - 20,180 ha, with a coastal development of 180 kilometers. 

La Maddalena, mother island and capital of the homonymous Archipelago, is the Park gateway. It is the one and only inhabited island, except for the village of Stagnali in Caprera Island and the settlements of Santa Maria. La Maddalena is just 2 kilometres from the northeastern shore of Sardinia. The town of La Maddalena is located in the southest part of the island: stairs and little alleys carachterize the historical centre, while the fishing and touristic port of Cala Gavetta , with a column dedicated to Giuseppe Garibaldi, give a very picturesque view to the turist.

Caprera: Garibaldi's island, after La Maddalena, it is the second island of the Park for size, but it is the first one for the beauty of its coasts and beaches and for its particular Mediterranean flora. A visit to the Garibaldi Compendium is worthy.

Budelli Island is considered one of the most beautiful islands of the Mediterranean, as well as symbol of Arcipelago di La Maddalena National Park, since it houses one of the most significant environmental sites of the area: Spiaggia Rosa (the pink beach). 

Razzoli and Santa Maria Islands are nearly united to Passo degli Asinelli. Razzoli Island lies in the northernmost section and is striking for its imposing cliffs and the shapes of its rocks, resembling Henry Moore's sculptures. 
Nibani, Mortorio, Soffi and Camere are three islands situated in the south-east of the Archipelago, in front of Costa Smeralda, a few miles from Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo, an ideal destination for yachtsmen. Spargi Island is the biggest of the four minor islands of the archipelago and is famous for its eastern beaches. Of granite origins, very rich in water and vegetation, it houses several protected bird species. Cala Corsara, Cala Connari, Cala Granara, and many other inlets surrounded by big granite rocks. The archipelago offers many opportunities for different amazing itineraries by sea and by land. Get ready for amazing diving and snorkeling experiences, for beautiful routes full of nature and very singular historical traces, and don’t miss the chance to stop in one of our most recomended restaurant in the Archipelago. Please download the map and the rules of the park and see in our tour list our main suggestions.



4X4 tour La Maddalena & Caprera

Departure on board of 4x4 for an enchanting tour of Caprera inland. We will have the chance of admiring charming landscapes of the natural environment of La Maddalena Archipelago and do some photo stops during the tour.



Trekking Caprera

Caprera Isle since 1980 belongs to the National Park of la Maddalena. It is the perfect location for trekking and excursions. In its unspoiled territory, you can go through wild valleys and admire breathtaking landscapes with the most crystal-clear water in the Mediterranean sea. A place with singular beauties as Mediterranean scrub, granite rocks and wild boars. Our expert guides will accompany the guest to visit beautiful creeks, the Garibaldi museum and military.


C.E.A. Stagnali (La Maddalena Island)
The village of Stagnali, in Caprera Island, houses the most important visitor center of the Park, that is the Environmental Education Center (CEA), including the Park Museums and other interesting tourist structures where past and present, history and nature, culture and tradition blend in a fascinating marriage. The implementation of the activities promoted by the associations operating inside the former military barracks, renovated by the Park Authority over the years, has been made possible thanks to the investments of the Park Authority and its will to preserve the cultural heritage for the future. 
The C.E.A. also houses the Dolphin Research Center, a structure which carries out research and monitoring activities on the cetaceans of the Archipelago all year round; the Museum of the Sea and of the Sailors' Traditions, telling the tales of many men and women who lived in the islands, indissolubly binding their lives to the sea; theNaturalistic Geo-Mineralogical Museum, dedicated to the territory and its particular geological features; the Knowledge Workshop, an innovative didactic and environmental education space.
Tourists who would like to discover the issues of landscape and nature protection of these places, discovering at the same time a place with a unique charm.

CAPO TESTA – SANTA TERESA

Capo Testa lies at about 4km from the town of Santa Teresa di Gallura and is considered one of the most fascinating places in Sardinia. It is, in actual fact, an enormous reef which extends and reaches the mainland by means of a short isthmus of land. The scenery is characteristically varied and includes delightful coral reefs, naturally formed grottos and beaches, alternating with granite cliffs that drive right into the sea. It is a haven for those who adore trekking and free climbing.


Giant’s tomb Li Mizzani (Palau)

This small tomb was built with the filar technique. The body of the tomb faces East and contains a rectangular burial chamber terminating at the end with a single block shaped like an arch. The exedra is only partially conserved: the hemicycle is defined by small orthostatic blocks at the base of which is a low sitting bench, also incomplete, destined to welcome offerings. The wall decorations behind the exedra are in continuum with the body of the tomb. The center of the exedra is the monolithic stele, smaller than examples found in other tombs in the region and without the arc composition. The monolith stands without foundations, partially on a flat stone and partially on the bare ground. The entrance is semicircular and features an unusual element probably due to a mistake in construction: the accurate smoothing of the perimeter of the interior façade; this kind of work is usually reserved only for the external façade. The fragmented materials which were found on the right of the exedra (pots, pitchers, vases with applied decorations, cups) date back to the recent bronze age.

MONTE ALTURA FORTRESS – PALAU

This impressive military fortress goes back to the 19th century and is located in an area called Monte Altura, which can be reached by taking the road to Punta Sardinia-Porto Rafael. It was part of the defensive system built around the island of La Maddalena, to protect the military base of La Regia Marina Sarda and the archipelago of La Maddalena, considered a strategic point in the defence of the Tyrrhenian sea from attack by the French naval fleet. It was rebuilt and rearmed with anti-aircraft artillery during the First and Second World War.

THE BEAR ROCK – PALAU

The Bear rock can be viewed near the town of Palau and owes its name to the animal that it represents. It was formed by the erosive effects of the strong winds which modelled it in this way. It is a granite stone which reaches a height of 120m and seems to have ancient origins, there are in fact traces of its existence in manuscripts dating back to the first geographers who studied the island of Sardinia.

MOON VALLEY (VALLE DELLA LUNA)

In the extreme north of Sardinia, on the famous promontory of Santa Teresa Gallura, there is a splendid cove, which has been given the well-deserved name of Valle della Luna (Valley of the Moon), a hippy paradise!
A little valley, about 500 metres long, consisting of impressive granite rocks shaped by the force of the weather over thousands of years. Cala Grande (or Valle della Luna) is located in the western part of the promontory of Capo Testa, in the territory of Santa Teresa Gallura, approximately four kilometres from the residential area. You will see hidden little coves appear between the rock faces, with turquoise and crystal clear waters, made magical by the contrast with the golden colours of the rocks and the green of the dense Mediterranean scrub, in which there are strawberry trees, myrtle and heather.
Since the late 1960s, the promontory has been chosen as a home by a group of hippies and naturists, who have helped to keep it unspoilt. It was named Valle della Luna because of the unusual white colour of the rocks in the moonlight.A spectacular setting in which peace and nature rule, as in the other beautiful places in the valley: the coves ofl’Eaand Mezzu. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking, evocative landscapes, particularly popular with diving enthusiasts, which can be found everywhere during a visit to the whole area of the promontory.

BUE MARIN0 CAVES



These large caves, owing their name to the Sardinian appellative of the monk seal, worth absolutely a visit. The splendid caves of Bue Marino are among the best known in Sardinia for their clear and crystalline water that reflect the beautiful concretions that have been raised throughout the years. In fact the place is highly suggestive and very rich of stalactites and stalagmites. The cave develops in 2 main branches, branch north and south branch. The north branch is to be explored with speleological helmets. The northern branch of the cave, by now fossil (water has naturally abandoned it and stalactites ceased to grow), that can be visited only with an authorization. Some local cooperatives organise speleologist excursions into the different branches of the cave. The tourist branch "southern branch" is the active branch where they are made visits, spread for about 7 km. Guests will visit only 1 km of it. The cave of Bue Marino known since Neolithic was frequented by people on their path that has left some carved on the walls.




JEEP TOUR IN BARBAGIA - ORGOSOLO, MAMOIADA AND OLIENA WINE CELLAR

BOAT AT ANCHOR IN CALA GONONE BAY - PICK-UP POINT: port of Cala Gonone.
Jeeps with English-speaking guide who depart towards the hinterland and arrive in Orgosolo. Walking tour of the village famous for “murales”. It can be combined with a typical lunch with local shepherds or at Su Gologone restaurant.

ORGOSOLO



In the heart of Sardinia, in a region called Barbagia, there is a small town full of history, legends, art and traditions. We are taling about Orgosolo, known for the hundreds of wall paintings that decorate houses’ walls. Orgosolo’s rebel soul left its sign on the town’s walls. In fact, there are more than 350 painting walls all over the town, and they are one of the town. They are made by water paint, so they are very perishable. But this is a big part of the magic: only if a message told in painting needs to be noticed, the painting gets re-painted. Unless, it is destined to disappear and to live only in the memory of the people that saw it. The first wall painting was painted in 1969, the same year of the Pratobello Uprising, and is signed by Dioniso, the name of an anarchic group. Since then, the tradition never stopped, and today you can admire, just walking through the streets, real artworks that tell stories about shepherds, misery, struggles for the land, human rights, italian social changes with the most beautiful and terrible moments of italian history. Orgosolo’s paintings tell about Sardinia, tell about the world and tell about the world from the sardinian point of view.



MAMOIADA



The Museum Of Mediterranean Masks was created with the intention of establishing a place of contact between the cultural universe of a small town in internal Sardinia, Mamoiada, known throughout the world for its traditional masks - the Mamuthones and the Issohadores - and the Mediterranean regions which, through the carnival representations and masks, they reveal a communion of history and culture. In particular, the Museum turns its interest towards the forms of masking in which, in a great variety of combinations, recurs the use of zoomorphic and grotesque wooden facial masks, of sheep and sheepskin skins, of cowbells and in general of devices acts to provoke a dull sound. These masks, typical of the communities of shepherds and peasants, recognized the power to influence the fate of the agrarian year.



OLIENA WINE CELLAR



The winery was founded in 1950 by a group of winemakers of Oliena in order to enhance the wine Cannonau. The culture of working and being together has dominated the decision to set up the cellar in the form of cooperatives, so as to give impetus to business but with profound social implications and especially to carry on the business philosophy based on quality rather than on profit, that distinguishes the Cantina since its establishment. The winery combines ancient methods handed down over time, the most advanced technologies of production.



TYPICAL LUNCH/DINNER WITH LOCAL SHEPHERDS

Close to the village of Cala Gonone, up the hills the guests will taste a typical Sardinian menu offered in a very peculiar place, called “pinnettu”. Su Pinnettu, from the Sardinian tradition, is the ancient hut built with branches and stones, where even today shepherds find shelter from the scorching sun or from the rain, and where they gather around the fire, between a piece of cheese and a glass of good wine. The jeeps will drive the guests to the town called “Buchi Arta”, a plateau above Cala Gonone overlooking the Gulf of Orosei. An area with several sheepfolds of goats, of which several are still used by shepherds. In one of these we organize a dinner based on genuine products produced by the shepherd himself: local cold cuts (sausage, bacon, ham), cheese (goat cheese, goat ricotta), vegetables (tomatoes, wild herbs, olives), pork meat , goat meat both roasted and stewed, local “carasau” bread and “moddizzosu” bread, local honey, red wine, water and various spirits, Italian coffee. The location of the dinner is under a wooden roof on benches, fresh and impactful area.

NURAGIC VILLAGES: TISCALI

At roughly 15 km from Cala Gonone lies the old Nauragic village of Tiscali which was actually built inside a large grotto. Forty of the original circular and rectangular huts can still be admired there today. The origins of the village to this day, though, remain mysterious because of the building technique and structure which were used at the time and which differ entirely from the those of the classic Nuraghe. The natural and environmental context of the village is appealing and stimulating and visits there are often combined with trekking tours.

NURAGIC VILLAGES: SERRA ORRIOS



Just a few km from Cala Gonone stands the Nauragic village of Serra Orrios dating back to the Middle Bronze Age (1500 – 1300 B.C.). The first archaeological excavations were carried out in 1936. On a plateau overlooking the sea, a very complex and well-preserved 'urban' site tells you about the life of the Nuragic people. Made up of a hundred circular huts, built with a plinth in rows of stones and, originally, covered with branches. They are simple or divided into several environments - also for keeping animals, typical of a society dedicated to agriculture and livestock.



NURAGIC VILLAGES: NURAGHE MANNU

The Dorgali areas is rich in architectonic elements of the nuragic civilization (Bronze Era), as is shown by the strong concentration of Nuraghes (40), nuragic  villages (more than 60)and megalithic tombs (more than 30). The small one-tower nuraghe  gives a full view of the Orosei Gulf. It is surrounded by many huts excavated  during the 90’s by means of a special  program, which combined archeological research and vacations.



THOMES GIANT'S TOMB



The tradition of the Nuragic civilization was to build common burial buildings for mortal remains of the town inhabitants. A good example is the tomba dei giganti di thomes (thomes grave) which is found just 6 km away from the Serra Orrios village.



FICO CAVES



The Fico grottos stand 10m above sea level and were opened to the public only in 2003. They can be accessed by a series of secured platforms which makes it easy to visit the major part of the grottos.



ISPINIGOLI CAVES

This grotto can be found on the east coast of Sardinia not far from the city of Dorgali. It is one of the largest grottos in Italy and has an expansion of about 10 km. One of the most exciting habitats there is the natural entrance hall at the centre of which lies a stalagmite/stalactite column of 38 m.




SU MERACULU CAVES



Located at the foot of the slopes of the rocky promontory of Baccu Erettili and the gully of Baccu Arala which leads to Cala Sisine's nice beach. The cave is, in plan view, the shape of an upside-down "Y", and in total is 200m long. Everywhere you see weird columns and cauliflower-shaped stalagmites. From the large chamber, various smaller chambers open with elegant columns, and other strangely-shaped stalactites and stalagmites which reflect marvellously the light.  From the cave's beauty comes its name Su Meraculu which means "the miracle" in Sardinian language.



GORROPU GORGE

Gorropu is an enormous gorge created by a tectonic movement. It was later eroded both by the water of the river “Flumineddu” and by atmospheric agents. It has cliff faces that are higher than 400 meters. Inside the gorge the excursion follows along a riverbed of the river that now flows underground and comes up every now and then, like for example at the spring at the entrance to the gorge. Coming back from the walk, in this place you will have a snack of packed lunch with typical local products. The path is difficult only in the final part of the gorge, but the most interesting part is at the entrance because it allows you to see the highest cliff faces in Europe.



CALA LUNA



An alternative way to visit the beach of “Cala Luna” is the one that starts from the locality “Buchi Arta”, reached by Land Rover over a scenic route. Here you can admire the characteristic folds of the goatherds. From this point the beach can be reached by foot from “Scala s’arga”, an old path made by ancient charcoal burners, that walking from a while on the “Codula di lune” in continuous contact with a luxuriant vegetation. During a break on the beach you will have a snack with typical local products. Possibility of stop on the beach.



GOLORITZE'

It is also possible to make an excursion to Goloritzè (the last beach of the gulf of Orosei) following the road SS 125 until Baunei, going towards the upland-plateau of the “Golgo” and finally going down to the beach by foot. This beach is without any doubt one of the most beautiful of the gulf. Afterwards you can return back to Cala Gonone by rubber dinghy visiting every one of the bays long the way, among them Mariolu, Biriola, Sisine, and Cala Luna.



CORRASI MOUNTAIN



The tallest peak of the Supramonte, with its 1436 mt., allows a vision 360° of the whole territory and to glimpse the sea of the gulf of Orosei, in a “lunar” landscape that it hides botanical variety of extraordinary interest. With the off-roads it reaches the country of Oliena and subsequently crossed the place "Monte Maccione" toward “Scala Pradu”. From here it begins a circular run that will allow to reach again the off-roads after about 5 hours of excursion, through an uncontaminated area.



AS PISCINAS

As Piscinas, are natural basaltic tanks which, according to scholars, were probably modified in shape by the Nuragic in order to be exploited during the metalworking procedure. Due to the presence of water all year round, it is thought to have also been home for a long time to particular cults of a magical - animistic type. The beauty of this place cannot be explained with a few simple photos.



SU STERRU

In the collective imagination of the inhabitants of Baunei, the chasm of Golgo, “Su Sterru”, has always represented the unknown, and there are many legends around the mysterious chasm, the most important being the one of “San Pietro e Sa Serpente”. Nowadays, the chasm is a bona fide tourist attraction, a “Natural Monument” since 1993, which attracts thousands of visitors, to the point that “Golgo”, the name of the entire plateau, is now perceived by many as the name of the chasm. A mistake regarding the name of the sinkhole name was also present, up until the fifties, on the old maps of the Military Geographical Institute (IGM, the best topography in Italy) in which “Su Sterru” was marked with the name “Cratere Vecchio” (“Old Crater”). That was because up until then the chasm was unanimously considered the crater of a volcano that, millions of years earlier, had expelled the basalt flow that covers ample stretches of the limestone plateau. The mistake was only put right in 1957, when an expedition of Sardinian speleologists (belonging to the “Pius XI Group” and the “Nuorese Cave Group”) explored the chasm for the first time and found that after the first thirty metres, the layer of basaltic rock gave way to limestone. Early explorers of “Su Sterru” discovered a karst abyss karst formed by rainwater erosion. Upon collapsing, the basalt “cap” reopened a karst well tens of millions of years old.The first to descend into the chasm was the speleologist Bruno Piredda, but 150 metres of rope proved insufficient to reach the bottom. For the second attempt, a young architecture student with a passion for caving, a 22 year old from Nuoro belonging to the “Nuorese Cave Group” called Umberto Pintori volunteered and, at 10.30 am on 25 July 1957, was able to reach the bottom of “Su Sterru”. Subsequent measurements established that it was one of the deepest single span chasms in Europe: 280 metres down. Since then, descending down the sides of “Su Sterru” is a “must” for lovers of caving, and many caving groups have come specially from all over Italy to challenge the legendary chasm. One of these associations, the “Faenza Caving Group”, organised an expedition in 1978 and, on that occasion, also allowed the descent down the vertical shaft to be made by an avid caving enthusiast from Baunei: Paolo Muggianu, twenty-six at the time, the first Baunesis to have had the courage to face the mysterious “Su Sterru” sinkhole.



THE 'STONE' MASK



The “Stone Mask” of Golgo, also called the “Lithic Face”, is a basalt wall that reveals a surprising anthropomorphism when viewed from a certain point on the path below: it is a bizarre result of erosion on the rock caused by atmospheric agents. The rocky wall, about ten metres high, on which the rain and wind have traced human features, almost defining the eyes, nose and lips in detail, is located on the eastern side of “Baccu Dolcolce”, behind a basalt ridge a few metres from “Il Rifugio” agritourism (built in the early nineties as part of an expansion programme of the Golgo plateau’s accommodation facilities). The “Stone Mask” is easily accessible via a path that starts in the square of the “Shelter”, thanks to the fact that the operators of the facility have restored a spectacular juniper “staircase” that permits travellers to negotiate the escarpment flanking the unique rocky wall with ease. As well as taking a look at the strange basalt face, visiting the place is worthwhile because a few metres below the “Lithic Face” is a narrow chasm (“nurra”, in Sardinian) with an entrance no more than five metres across. The “nurra”, over 120 metres deep, known among caving enthusiasts as “il Golghetto”, is known to the herdsmen of Baunei as “Sa Nurra de Genna Sarmentu”. Not far from the “nurra” is the last part of “Baccu Dolcolce”, where the “Codula di Sisine” begins, the bed of a torrential river that stretches from Golgo to the sea, flowing out into the homonymous “Cala Sisine”.Where the Baccu Dolcolce flows into the codula has always been considered an important point of access to the Golgo plateau and is called “Genna 'e Sarmentu”, which means “Gate of Wild Grapes”; according to another interpretation, name means “Genna 'e S'Armentu” (“Gate of the cattle, the livestock”, in Sardinian). On the opposite side to that of the “Stone Mask”, a fifteen minute walk from the “nurra”, are the ruins of the “Nuraghe di Genna Sarmentu” (made of basalt stone), which still has a dozen shelves that constituted the terraced crown protruding from the ramparts. The nuraghe is usually referred to as the “Nuraghe Alvo” (“albu” means “white”, in Sardinian) in guidebooks, a name that in theory should refer to the ruins of another nuraghe, made of limestone, which is higher up on the ridge.



THE CHURCH OF SAN PIETRO



The country church dedicated to St. Peter, with that unmistakable, white angular facade that stands out against the backdrop of the mountains separating Golgo from the sea, is one of the most famous sites on the plateau, visited each year by thousands of tourists. According to tradition, the church, located about 8 km from Baunei, was built between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries thanks to donations by Golgo herdsmen who did not want to miss the most important religious events. However, the earliest evidence of the festivities in honour of St. Peter goes back to the beginning of the seventeenth century (1606) and is mentioned in documents (kept in the State Archives in Cagliari) relating to disputes between Baunei and Urzulei on jurisdiction over land at the border of the two towns. The architectural structure of the church is very simple: the interior consists of a single room, which is accessed by a wooden archway. The building, renovated internally in the seventies, is surrounded by a stone wall, enclosing “us istaulus” (from the Latin “stabulum”, meaning “barn”), the quarters that were used in the past by pilgrims who came to Golgo from Ogliastra on public holidays. Not far from the entrance stands an interesting anthropomorphic bethel from the Nuragic era.The celebrations in honour of St. Peter, which take place on the last Sunday in June, are particularly evocative (up to the late nineteenth century there was also a horse race in which the best riders in the area competed against each other) especially because of the procession that takes place near the church, with the statue of the saint, glittering in its golden vestments, followed by the faithful in religious meditation. Such devotion, according to common opinion in the village, is due to a particular incident that apparently took place on the plateau and involved St. Peter himself. Legend has it that once upon a time the entire plateau was at the mercy of a vicious monster, “Sa Serpente”, a sort of evil dragon who would sometimes come out of the chasm of Golgo (“Su Sterru”) demanding human sacrifices. One day, however, St. Peter came to Baunei and, apprised of the situation, decided to solve the problem of “Sa Snake” once and for all. St. Peter he prevailed in the clash with the evil reptile and has been the most beloved saint of the Baunesis, eternally grateful for being freed from Golgo monster, ever since. According to another version of the legend, however, “Su Sterru” opened up the ground of Golgo, swallowing “Sa Serpente”, when St. Peter threw the evil monster to the ground.



BAUNEI



A village “clinging to a sheer slope on the limestone ridge of Monte Santo - as the historian Vittorio Angius wrote - isolated in the isolated Ogliastra”. The panoramic position overlooking the valley below, makes the folk tale about its founding more credible: a goatherd created Baunei on the rocky elevation, at an altitude of almost 500 metres, to escape from the Arabs who were trying to invade in 1015. In the centre of the ‘steep’ village, which now has a population of three thousand 600 inhabitants, the Nicola di Bari parish church stands out, with its seventeenth century structure that was renovated in the 20th century. The Supramonte mountain range of Baunei, the home of hiking, extends around the village, with trekking trails that stretch from the mountains to the sea and its vertical rock faces are a rock climbing paradise. In particular, a gully leads to the natural monument, Pedra Longa, a pointed pinnacle 128 metres high, overlooking the sea. Eight kilometres of spectacular hairpin bends take you from the village to the heart of the big, silent Golgo plateau, covered with a dark, basaltic lava flow standing out against the whitish colour of the surrounding limestone rocks. From up there, at an altitude of 630 metres, you will enjoy a breathtaking view that stretches from Gennargentu to the Gulf of Orosei.



LUNCH AT OVILE BERTARELLI



You may well end up at this former sheepfold, situated in the middle of Supramonte region, after a hike along one of the amazing tiny beaches in the surrounding area. Ovile Bertarelli delivers the real Sardinian gastronomic experience without any fuss — don't expect an international chef, just pork and sheep meat, sheep cheese, culurgiones (ravioli filled with sheep cheese) and sebadas (dessert filled with sheep cheese) all cooked to perfection.Starters like olives and sautéed mushrooms, then ham and bacon (really excellent) with fried cheese. Followed by culurgiones ravioli and malloreddus pasta: very soft and seasoned with a delicious tomato sauce. Then roasted piglet  (they should see them cooking on a spit in one of the wonderful fireplaces in the renovated rooms of the sheepfold). Dessert with typical sweets, ricotta with honey and sabadas (fried sweet raviolo).They can also cook beef or goat if you prefer or would like to try the three.It will most likely open exclusively for you and your guides tomorrow for lunch.