Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
15.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
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. This 7 night-walking holiday, takes you on an adventure around Sardinia's South West Coast, known as the Costa Verde (The Green Coast) due to its lush Mediterranean vegetation that surrounds the area.
Start your trip on the enchanting island of Sant'Antioco where spectacular coastal walks, ancient watchtowers and unique nuraghe (ancient structures exclusive to Sardinia) await. Next explore the charming town of Carloforte, renowned for its colourful buildings and captivating mix of Ligurian, Sardinian and Phoenician influences. These picturesque islands are an ideal introduction to Sardinia's natural beauty and fascinating past.
Embark on the second leg of your Sardinian adventure as you journey to the mainland and visit Nebida,a village nestled in the Geo-mining park. From here you'll traverse a segment of the Santa Barbara mining trail, a 500km route dedicated to the patron saint of miners, Sant Barbara. Next marvel at Porto Flavia, a unique sea harbour offering breathtaking views of the iconic Pan di Zucchero limestone stacks. These formations also known as Sugarloaf dramatically rise from the sea and reach an impressive height of 133 metres. As the day winds down take your transfer to Iglesias, a historic town famed for its numerous churches and once the heart of Sardinia's major mining district.
For the final part of your trip explore the area of Arbus, renowned for its unspoiled beauty, pink granite cliffs and secluded coves, it is the perfect surrounding for those who enjoy hiking and breathtaking views. Enjoy your final nights in Buggerru and visit one of the many local restaurants for some typical Sardinian dishes, many of which are based around seafood. Finish your meals with a small glass of mirto, the island's traditional digestif made from the berries of the myrtle plants which you may have spotted along your walks of the Costa Verde.
The walks cover a diverse area of terrain, including gravel roads and paths, rocky coastal trails and sandy beaches. The routes also include remote sandy footpaths by high cliffs and some sections are along secondary paved roads as you approach towns and villages.
Sardinia’s Mediterranean climate means that many of the paths lack natural shade. It’s important to wear appropriate clothing and ensure you have sturdy walking boots for the entire journey.
Arrive in Sant'Antioco, a captivating island on the southwest coast of Sardinia, recognised for its rich history and natural beauty. This island has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was a significant Phoenician and Roman settlement. Visit the Basilica di Sant'Antioco Martire, a church built over ancient catacombs dating back to the 2nd century AD, which houses the remains of Saint Antiochus, the island's patron saint.
You stay at Hotel Solki.
Shops
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Aircon
Safe
Nestled between the seafront and the vibrant heart of Sant’Antioco, Hotel Solki offers 22 well-appointed rooms. Each room features modern amenities like TV, safe, air conditioning, and complimentary Wi-Fi. This family-run hotel provides a buffet breakfast with products sourced from local producers, enjoy a variety of warm croissants, fresh bread, an assortment of sweets, cheeses, cold cuts, yoghurt, cereals, and a selection of hot and cold beverages, all in a welcoming setting.
This morning, a short transfer will take you to Capo Sperone, a stunning location offering panoramic views of the surrounding sea and nearby islands, including the ancient volcanic island of Vacca. Begin your walk through lush Mediterranean maquis passing by Torre Cannai watchtower and Maladroxia beach, a popular beach due to its crystal-clear waters ranging from emerald-green to turquoise. Enjoy this remarkable area's serene beauty and historical charm and even spot some pink flamingos in the lagoon on your return to Sant'Antioco.
After breakfast, your transfer will take you to Capo Sperone to experience a walk along the west coast of Sant'Antioco Island. On route, you will pass various Nuragic ruins, these structures are unique to Sardinia and believed to date back to the bronze age. Once you reach Cala Lunga a transfer will drive you to Calasetta to catch your ferry across to Carloforte (ferry tickets payable locally, €5 per person on weekdays and €7.70 per person on weekends).
You stay at Lu'Hotel Riviera.
HairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafe
Located on the seafront and a five-minute walk from the ferry dock, this boutique hotel is in the ideal location to explore Carloforte. The hotel’s terrace and lounge bar offer stunning views of Carloforte marina, while the breakfast area provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding area. Each Comfort room has been elegantly decorated and provides all the essential amenities for a relaxing stay.
Wake up in Carloforte a charming town on the island of San Pietro, this town was founded by Ligurian families and therefore not only do the locals speak a distinct dialect called Tabarchino, a mix between Sardinian and Ligurian but the historic centre also features colourful buildings typical of Ligurian architecture. Today you have the choice of a loop walk around Carloforte or to spend the day relaxing at one of the island's beaches.
Leave the small islands behind you and enjoy a ferry crossing (ferry ticket payable locally, €5.40 per person on weekdays and €8.70 per person on weekends) to the mainland of Sardinia. From here a short 20-minute transfer will take you to the beginning of your walk in Nebida, located in the region of Iglesiente. Renowned for its rich mining history the village was built in 1897 to accommodate the miners and their families, however, nowadays it is a popular hiking destination due to the beautiful surroundings. At the end of your walk, you will reach Porto Flavia, an engineering marvel by Cesare Vecelli, whose architectural design allowed minerals to be delivered directly from the mine onto the ship.
A transfer from Porto Flavia has been arranged to take you to your night's accommodation in Iglesias, a charming town known for its numerous churches, the most important one being the Cathedral of Santa Chiara, the first church dedicated to the Saint Clare of Assisi.
You stay at Euro Hotel.
ShopsWiFiTVMinibarAircon
Tea/coffee
Situated just a short walk from Iglesias' historic centre, this baroque-style hotel offers rooms that are tastefully decorated to a high standard and equipped with modern conveniences, including air conditioning, a safe, and a minibar.
This morning there will be a quick transfer to Portixeddu where you will begin one of the most picturesque walks on the Costa Verde, where the greenery of the Mediterranean scrub creates a striking contrast with the golden sand beaches and the emerald-green sea. During the spring months, the flora is in full bloom, with many plants flowering and adding vibrant colour to the area. On your return to Portixeddu take the bus to Buggerru (ticket payable locally, €2 per person), a village surrounded by mountainous scenery and pristine beaches.
You stay at Hotel La Rosa dei Venti.
HairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconTea/coffee
Set in the charming village of Buggerru, surrounded by mountains and the sea, Hotel La Rosa dei Venti offers a genuine Sardinian welcome. Your stay includes a superior room with a private balcony, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
Begin your walk from your hotel, embarking on an uphill journey that promises rewarding vistas of the coastline, making it a well-worth climb. As you make your way towards the village of Portixeddu, you'll encounter the impressive Dunes of San Nicolo, a protected area dedicated to the conservation of the dune's various wildlife and plants. Once in Portixeddu, enjoy an aperitivo on the beach before taking the bus back to Buggerru (ticket payable locally, €2 per person).
After breakfast leave your hotel and the beautiful village of Buggerru.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from NZ$528.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
15.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
