Discovering the Bear Rock: a path through history and legend
An iconic symbol of Gallura: The Bear Rock, also known as Capo d'Orso, is one of the most famous natural monuments in Sardinia. Located in the territory of Palau, this striking granite formation dominates the landscape with its unmistakable silhouette that, from a certain angle, resembles the figure of a bear. The Bear Rock is open to the public every day from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and admission is free.
Sardinia Map
Let’s discover some of the historic subregions in Sardinia, there are over 35 in total, including Gallura, Barbagia, and Ogliastra. These areas are often close to each other, but over time they have developed different traditions, dialects, and customs.
Each area is characterized by unique features that set it apart, so let’s look at the municipalities involved and the attractions not to be missed. For simplicity, in the guide and the map below, some subregions have been grouped together to clarify a topic that is often debated.
Sardinia Map: Gallura
Gallura is located in the northeastern part of Sardinia; it is a historic subregion because it was part of one of the 4 judicial districts of Sardinia. Today, Gallura is very famous and recognized internationally for the presence of the Emerald Coast – with Porto Cervo and Baja Sardinia – but it is important to know that it has many other peculiarities and attractions.
In Gallura, they speak Gallurese – very similar to the Corsican dialect spoken in southern Corsica – which retains some influences from Logudorese. The subregion is famous for the presence of cork factories – in the area of Calangianus – that export Sardinian cork worldwide.
Another peculiarity that makes Gallura famous is the granite that gives the territory its unique shape. In every corner of the subregion, one can admire the sweet hills cradle of Vermentino di Gallura DOCG and the famous Gallurese rocks. The picturesque rocks of many shapes can be admired, among other places, in the Valley of the Moon in Aggius and in the Valley of the Moon in Santa Teresa Gallura.
The municipalities that are part of Gallura include: Aggius, Aglientu, Arzachena, Badesi, Bortigiadas, Calangianus, Golfo Aranci, La Maddalena, Loiri Porto San Paolo, Luogosanto, Luras, Olbia, Oschiri, Palau, San Teodoro, Sant’Antonio di Gallura, Santa Teresa Gallura, Telti, Tempio Pausania, Trinità d’Agultu e Vignola, Viddalba
The must-see attractions in Gallura are:
National Park of the La Maddalena Archipelago - open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, admission is free.
Millenary Olives of Luras - visitable every day from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, admission is free.
Protected Marine Area Tavolara Punta Coda Cavallo - open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, entrance fee 5€.
The sequoias of Monte Limbara - accessible daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, admission is free.
Capo Figari and Golfo Aranci - visitable without restrictions, admission is free.
Where Gallura is located
Gallura is located in the northeastern part of Sardinia; it is a historic subregion because it was part of one of the 4 judicial districts of Sardinia. Today, Gallura is very famous and recognized internationally for the presence of the Emerald Coast – with Porto Cervo and Baja Sardinia – but it is important to know that it has many other peculiarities and attractions.
The municipalities that are part of Gallura include: Aggius, Aglientu, Arzachena, Badesi, Bortigiadas, Calangianus, Golfo Aranci, La Maddalena, Loiri Porto San Paolo, Luogosanto, Luras, Olbia, Oschiri, Palau, San Teodoro, Sant’Antonio di Gallura, Santa Teresa Gallura, Telti, Tempio Pausania, Trinità d’Agultu e Vignola, Viddalba
Photos of Gallura
Curiosities about Gallura
In Gallura and Upper Gallura, they speak Gallurese
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the best time to visit Gallura, Barbagia, and Ogliastra? The best seasons to visit these areas are spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer.
- What activities are available in these areas? In Gallura, you can hike in the nature parks, visit beaches like Capriccioli, and enjoy wine tastings. In Barbagia, explore the mountain trails and discover Sardinian culture, while in Ogliastra, you can trek in Gennargentu and visit the famous coves.
Gallura, a subregion of Sardinia, is very similar to the Corsican dialect spoken in southern Corsica – which retains some influences from Logudorese. The subregion is famous for the presence of cork factories – in the area of Calangianus – that export Sardinian cork worldwide. According to the National Cork Producers Association, Sardinia produces about 50% of the world's cork, making it a leader in the sector.
Another peculiarity that makes Gallura famous is the granite that gives the territory its unique shape. In every corner of the subregion, one can admire the sweet hills cradle of Vermentino di Gallura DOCG and the famous Gallurese rocks. The picturesque rocks of many shapes can be admired, among other places, in the Valle della Luna in Aggius and in the Valle della Luna in Santa Teresa Gallura, places that attract thousands of tourists each year.
Not to be missed: what to see in Gallura
The must-see attractions in Gallura are:
National Park of the La Maddalena Archipelago
Tavolara Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area
The city of Olbia and Tempio Pausania
see boat trips La MaddalenaSardinia Map: Barbagia
Where Barbagia is located
Barbagia is located in central Sardinia, roughly in the area of Nuoro. There are several subdivisions of Barbagia: Barbagia of Belvì, Barbagia of Nuoro and Bitti, Barbagia of Ollolai, Barbagia of Seulo.
The municipalities that are part of the subdivisions of Barbagia include: Aritzo, Belvì, Gadoni, Meana Sardo. Bitti, Dorgali, Lula, Nuoro, Onanì, Oniferi, Orani, Orotelli, Orune, Osidda, Ottana, Sarule. Austis, Fonni, Gavoi, Lodine, Mamoiada, Oliena, Ollolai, Olzai, Orgosolo, Ovodda, Teti, Tiana. Seulo, Seui, Sadali, Esterzili, Ussassai (bordering Ogliastra).
Photos of Barbagia
Curiosities about Barbagia
Barbagia is a vast and diverse area, dominated by the Gennargentu mountain massif, with beautiful valleys and the enchanting sea of Cala Gonone.
The barbaricina culture is ancient and manifests itself in traditional festivals and fairs that take place every year in the towns of Barbagia. Among the most famous is “Autumn in Barbagia,” held from September to December. During this event, various towns host the “Cortes Apertas,” events with performances and shows in the streets.
A highly anticipated event is the lighting of the bonfires of Sant’Antonio in Mamoiada, famous for the Mamuthones and Issohadores, symbols of the tradition. The first appearance of the masks occurs on January 17, during the feast of Sant’Antonio Abate, marking the beginning of the barbaric carnival. This is an unmissable event for those wishing to immerse themselves in authentic Sardinian traditions.
Must see: what to see in Barbagia
Must-see attractions in Barbagia include:
- Departure of Mamuthones and Issohadores
- Tiscali, Nuragic Village in the Heart of Ancient Sardinia
- Travel notes at Cala Gonone
- The towns of Orgosolo, Oliena, and Mamoiada
- Nuoro and the Grazia Deledda museum
- The Nuragic Sanctuary of Gremanu and Montes Forest
Sardinia Map: Ogliastra
Where Ogliastra is located
The historical-geographical region of Ogliastra is known for its beaches with crystal-clear waters, wild landscapes, and impressive nature; it is located in the central-eastern part of Sardinia.
The municipalities that are part of Ogliastra include: Arzana, Barisardo, Baunei, Cardedu, Elini, Gairo, Girasole, Ilbono, Jerzu, Lanusei, Loceri, Lotzorai, Osini, Perdasdefogu, Seui, Talana, Tertenia, Triei, Tortolì (Arbatax), Urzulei, Ulassai, Ussassai, and Villagrande Strisaili.
FAQ: Where can I find tourist information about Ogliastra? You can visit the official tourism website of Sardinia or contact local tourist offices to get maps and detailed information about attractions.
Photos of Ogliastra
Curiosities about Ogliastra
Among the most picturesque beaches to visit in Ogliastra are some that are reachable by sea and others that can only be admired after a few hours of walking or trekking. Among the most famous beaches are certainly Cala Luna, Cala Sisine, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Goloritzé.
The plateaus that rise above the coasts of Ogliastra are known as Supramonte of Urzulei and Baunei and are filled with trails for trekking, mountain biking, and climbing.
Among the places from which truly remarkable trekking paths start is “the plateau of Golgo” in Baunei. A place of rare beauty and allure. The area is famous for an extraordinary chasm called “Su Sterru,” one of the deepest in Europe.
Along the rugged coasts of Ogliastra, there is also one of the most famous treks in Europe, the sought-after Selvaggio Blu.
Must see: what to see in Ogliastra
Must-see attractions in Ogliastra include:
- Ogliastra's Tacchi
- Cala Luna and its caves
- The Sothai waterfall in Villagrande Strisaili
- Baunei and the plateau of Golgo
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Ogliastra
- What are the most beautiful beaches to visit in Ogliastra? The most beautiful beaches include Cala Luna, Cala Sisine, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Goloritzé.
- When is the best time to visit Ogliastra? The best time to visit Ogliastra is from May to September, when the weather is warm and the beaches are accessible.
- Is it possible to go trekking in Ogliastra? Yes, there are numerous trekking paths, including the famous Selvaggio Blu and the plateau of Golgo.
- Are there free attractions in Ogliastra? Yes, many beaches and trekking trails are free.
Sardinia Map: all sub-regions
Here is the list of sub-regions, in alphabetical order: Anglona, Barbagia di Belvi, Barbagia di Nuoro and Bitti, Barbagia di Ollolai, Barbagia di Seùlo, Barigadu, Le Baronìe, Campidano di Cagliari, Campidano di Oristano, Gallura, Goceano, Logudoro Mandrolisai also known as Barbagia di Mandrolisai, Marghine, Marmilla, Logudoro Meilogu, Monreale or Campidano di Sanluri, Logudoro Montacuto, Montiferru, Nurra, Ogliastra, Parteòlla, Planargia, Quirra, Romangia, Sarcidano, Sarrabus and Gerrei, Logudoro Turritano or Sassarese, Sulcis and Iglesiente, Trexenta.