Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu National Park – Sardinia: wild peaks, hidden canyons and alabaster beaches.
The Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu National Park is one of the largest and most intact areas of Sardinia. It stretches between the Gennargentu massif and the east coast, embracing dizzying landscapes, deep gorges, primeval forests and some of the most spectacular beaches in the Mediterranean. Here, nature and isolation draw a harsh and magnificent territory. ⛰️ The wild heart of the island:
Gennargentu is the highest relief in Sardinia, with peaks that exceed 1,800 meters, such as Punta La Marmora. In winter they are covered with snow, in summer they turn into golden plateaus. The mountains are home to unique fauna: mouflons, golden eagles, foxes and even Sardinian deer find refuge in holm oak forests and remote valleys.
👉 Tip: Set off at dawn for a hike on Bruncu Spina: the panorama sweeps all the way to the sea, and it's pure visual freedom. 🌊 The Gulf of Orosei and the inaccessible beaches:
The east coast of the park is home to some of the most iconic beaches in Sardinia: Cala Luna, Cala Goloritzé, Cala Mariolu, Cala Sisine. Bays of white pebbles and sheer cliffs follow one another between coves that can only be reached by sea or by long paths. The sea has shades that turn from turquoise to deep blue.
👉 Tip: Rely on a boat trip from Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese: sailing under the limestone walls is a total thrill. 🌿 Gorges, springs and ancient forests:
Inside the park there are wild paths such as the Gorropu Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in Europe, or the paths that lead to the Nuragic village of Tiscali, hidden inside a sinkhole. Forests of yews, hollies and centuries-old holm oaks alternate with lunar landscapes and silent plateaus.
👉 Tip: Take the path to the Su Gologone Spring: pure water, lush vegetation and absolute peace. 🏛️ Archaic culture and living pastoralism:
The park is also a cultural reserve. Villages such as Orgosolo, Urzulei, Dorgali and Oliena retain a strong identity linked to sheep farming, craftsmanship and an ancient language. The murals of Orgosolo tell the story of a resistant people, while the scents of carasau bread and aged pecorino cheese accompany every meeting.
👉 Tip: Visit a sheepfold at high altitude during the summer: you can watch the milking and enjoy hot ricotta in the mountains. 🚶 Nature to be experienced in depth:
The park is ideal for those looking for real hiking, off the beaten track. Trails, heels, caves and canyons create a dynamic and immersive landscape. Many areas are only accessible on foot or with local guides: an invitation to slow down, observe and immerse yourself in the most unspoiled nature of the island.
👉 Tip: If you don't know the area, rely on expert guides for the most challenging routes: safety and knowledge make the difference.
In this park, Sardinia stops resembling an island: it becomes a continent, ancestral and timeless.