A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE

Skip a day at the beach and head inland to discover Sardinia’s secluded spots. The island’s coastline is truly enchanting, however, according to locals, the best way to experience the real, untamed, 100% authentic Sardinia and get a feel for both its rugged landscapes and gripping history is to get on your feet and hike. Take a walk on the wild side and venture into the heart of the region on this trek to Su Gorropu.

Often referred to as “Europe’s Grand Canyon”, the spectacular Gola Su Gorropu is situated in the Supramonte region, Sardinia’s most remote, raw and uncompromising territory, once known as the home of the island’s bandits. Criminals would take refuge here, inside caves at the foot of the mountains, to conceal their loot and hold captive their kidnapped victims, certain that no-one would find them.

Su Gorropu consists of a ravine carved between two towering rocky cliffs, created over the centuries by the erosion of the Flumineddu River. Near the narrowest point, which is just four metres wide, intrepid climbers tackle the tough Hotel Supramonte, a steep limestone wall soaring four hundred metres above the ground. The endemic and endangered Aquilegia nuragica plant grows here, and at quieter times of the day it is possible to spot the wild mouflon, fox and golden eagle. The magical, dramatic atmosphere of the site has sparked a series of legends. It is said that from here stars can be spotted in broad daylight while evil creatures hide in the shadows of the looming cliffs, waiting to come out on stormy nights.

Your trail begins by the s’Abba Arva bridge. From here, with your private guide leading the way, you will set off on a stimulating but strenuous 2-hour hike that follows the course of the Flumineddu River for about six kilometres through the unspoilt landscape of Supramonte. Be prepared for a fair amount of steep up and downhill walking over rocky, uneven terrain. Some sections can be challenging and physically demanding but the perks at the finishing line are well worth the effort and will spur you on to reach your destination.

Upon arrival at the entrance to Su Gorropu, several refreshing pools offer a chance to soak your feet and cool off before exploring the canyon. Su Gorropu stretches for about 1.5 kilometres and trails are marked with three different colours – green, yellow and red – according to the increasing level of difficulty. Once inside you are required to squeeze through, hop across and manoeuvre your way around large boulders. Even the simplest green route requires a medium level of fitness and we therefore recommend completing this first section only without venturing any further as the yellow and red routes are intended for very experienced hikers wearing appropriate equipment.

Hike back to the starting point in the afternoon taking with you a precious glimpse of Sardinia’s wild side.