What to see in Sardinia's hinterland: a journey to discover the enchanting island
Inland Sardinia hides an authentic world, far from the crowded beaches and beaten tourist routes. Here, between mountains, villages muralsancient sites Nuragic and unspoilt landscapes, you experience the truest soul of the island. This article will take you on a voyage of discovery of heart of Sardiniatelling you what makes each corner unique and offering you advice on what to see if you wish to discover the Sardinia beyond the sea. Get ready to discover fascinating places, age-old traditions and spectacular nature that make theinland one of the most surprising areas on the entire island.
Orgosolo and its murals: an open-air museum
The small hamlet by Orgosoloin the heart of the Barbagiais known throughout the world for its extraordinary Orgosolo murals. Walking among its granite stone houses means entering a open-air museum where the walls tell stories of struggle, culture, politics and everyday life. These works originated in the 1960s as a form of protest and today are a fundamental part of the country's identity.
But Orgosolo is not only art: it is also nature. At the foot of the Supramonte of Orgosolosurrounded by caves and limestone heels, this place is the ideal starting point for hiking and trekking. Here, time seems to stand still and life flows slowly, between traditional costumes and aromas of typical cuisine.
The Gorropu Gorge: among the deepest canyons in Europe
La Gorropu Gorge is a natural wonder that every traveller should see at least once. Situated between Urzulei e Oliena, is part of the deepest canyons in Europewith walls exceeding 400 metres in height. This spectacular place is perfect for those who love trekking and wants to experience an adventure in contact with nature.
Walking the paths leading to the gorge is an exciting experience. On the way you can admire the Supramonte landscape of Orgosolowith its unique rock formations and vegetation of holm oak and Mediterranean maquis. Here you can breathe pure air and feel the wild power of theSardinian hinterland.
Barbagia: the heart of authentic Sardinia
La Barbagia is one of the most characteristic areas of the centre of Sardinia. A territory pristinerich in Sardinian villages that preserve ancient traditions and a strong link with the past. Among the villages worth visiting are Nuorowith its archaeological museumand Mamoiada, famous for the masks of the Mamuthones and the Issohadores.
Here you can witness the tenor singingUNESCO intangible heritage, and discover the mastery of the working of filigree jewellery. La Barbagia is also the home of Cannonau, the island's most famous red wine, which can be tasted during a break in a farmhouse.
The Giara di Gesturi: wild horses and unique landscapes
L'plateau of Giara di Gesturi is a magical place where the famous giara horses live in freedom. Here you will find the giara horse museumwhich recounts the history and characteristics of these unique animals. This area, characterised by basalt landscapes and seasonal lakes, is ideal for slow, contemplative walks.
Visiting the giara also means discovering the flora and fauna of theinland. In the surrounding area you can explore sites Nuragic and ancient domus de janas, testimonies from Sardinia prehistoric.
The Supramonte: wilderness and scenic trails
The Supramonte is a vast mountain massif that offers spectacular scenery and unforgettable adventures. Here you will find the forest of Montesa protected area of rare beauty, and the River Cedrinothrough valleys and gorges.
The Supramonte of Orgosolo is ideal for fans of trekking who want to discover the Sardinia without filters. The paths lead to mysterious caves, ancient nuraghe and views as far as the sea on clear days.
The Tombs of the Giants: Nuragic Mysteries
Among the most fascinating sites in theinland there are the tombs of the giantsancient burial monuments dating back to the Bronze Age. These impressive structures are an integral part of the culture nuragic and still shrouded in mystery.
Visiting them is an evocative experience that takes you back in time and makes you imagine the life of the people who lived there. the whole of Sardinia thousands of years ago.
Gallura and its inland villages
Although famous for its coastline, the Gallura holds fascinating villages and authentic traditions in its interior. Here you will find ancient ancient settlement, castle ruins medieval and churches in the style Romanesque.
These places are ideal for discovering the daily life of the countries of Sardinia away from mass tourism and enjoy typical products such as honey and local cheeses.
Nuoro and the cultural centre of the island
Nuoroin the centre Sardiniais considered the cultural capital of the island. It is home to the archaeological museum and the old court buildingas well as galleries and spaces dedicated to contemporary art.
From Nuoro you can easily reach many of the most beautiful places in theSardinian hinterlandmaking it a perfect base camp to explore the region.
The Sardinian hinterland between banditry and traditions
The history of theSardinian hinterland is also marked by the banditrya phenomenon that has profoundly influenced local culture and narrative. Today, this past is recounted in museums and in stories handed down by the elders.
In addition to history, theinland is a place where traditions are kept alive: from the carasau bread preservation to folk festivals, from music to dances.
Getting lost in the Sardinian hinterland: an experience to be lived
Who decides to losing inland in Sardinia discover a land enchantingwhere time seems to pass more slowly and every encounter becomes special. It is an invitation to be guided by curiosity and to go beyond the surface to discover the authentic spirit of the island.
FAQ
What are the unmissable places in the Sardinian hinterland?
The most striking are Orgosolo, the Gorropu Gorge, the Giara di Gesturi, Nuoro and sites Nuragic as the tombs of the giants.
What to see in inland Sardinia in a few days?
You can visit the villages of the Barbagiatrekking in the Gorropu Gorge and discover the murals of Orgosolo.
Where is the Gorropu Gorge?
It is located between Urzulei e Olienain the Supramonteand is one of the deepest canyons in Europe.
Why visit Orgosolo?
For its famous Orgosolo muralslocal traditions and landscapes of the Supramonte.
What makes the Giara di Gesturi special?
The presence of wild horses, unique in the whole of Sardiniaand its basaltic landscapes.
What are the oldest traditions in Barbagia?
The tenor singingtraditional costumes and masks of the Mamuthones and the Issohadores.
Are there interesting museums in the hinterland?
Yes, like the archaeological museum of Nuoro and the giara horse museum.
Can you go trekking in the Sardinian hinterland?
Absolutely, with routes in the Supramontein the forest of Montes and in the Gorropu Gorge.
What is the best time to visit the hinterland?
Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most beautiful.
How to have an authentic inland experience?
Staying at agritourisms, attending local festivals and relying on guides who know Sardinian villages and traditions.
