Exscursions & Trekking
Naturalistic activities allow visitors to explore and experience the wild and unspoiled beauty of the landscape. These experiences, deeply connected with nature, range from trekking and cave explorations to more adventurous pursuits on the sea and in the mountains.
BIRDWATCHING IN BOSA
Following the Griffon’s Flight” is a naturalistic and scenic excursion that takes participants through the trachytic ridges of the hinterland to admire the majestic soaring flight of the undisputed king of the Sardinian skies—the griffon vulture.
The griffon vulture is the only vulture species among those originally present in Sardinia that has survived. Currently, the entire Sardinian population is primarily concentrated around the Bosa area and its surroundings, with an estimated census of 242–270 individuals, including about 60 nesting pairs.
These magnificent vultures, weighing between 6.5 and 12 kg, boast an impressive wingspan of nearly 3 meters.
Starting from Bosa in a 4×4 vehicle, the tour reaches a natural balcony atop the plateau where the birdwatching begins. Visitors can observe griffons as they use ascending thermal currents to glide over vast open spaces in search of food.
The excursion also provides visitors with breathtaking views of the western coastline, spanning from Capo Caccia in Alghero to the Sinis Peninsula and the island of Maldiventre.
This activity is very easy, suitable for everyone, and involves transportation in Land Rover vehicles to the observation point, accompanied by a nature guide. Binoculars are provided to enhance the birdwatching experience.
- Duration: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Recommended Period: Spring – Summer – Autumn
- Departures: From Macomer and Bosa, available daily upon request.
- Booking: Reservations are required.
Tips: Comfortable clothing is recommended: long pants, closed shoes, water, and a camera.
BOSA URBAN TREKKING
Urban Trekking is a new way of exploring tourism, less structured and away from traditional circuits. It’s a form of sustainable tourism, offering freedom and surprises, focusing on the hidden and lesser-known corners of Bosa. Through this itinerary, visitors can enjoy a unique experience, blending art, culture, and nature in the charming town of Planargia.
An urban trek to rediscover the heart of Bosa offers an opportunity to deeply understand the history of this picturesque town in Planargia through legends, anecdotes, and stories. Walking through the narrow streets of Sa Costa, we recount the historical events that shaped the life of the Temo River city, visiting iconic monuments like the Santa Maria Cathedral, Malaspina Castle, and the ancient Tanneries.
Strolling through the alleys of the historic center, visitors can admire the countless nuances of the colorful Sa Costa district with its vertical houses and the long S’Iscala ‘e Sa Rosa. Finally, we will walk along the lively streets of Corso Vittorio Emanuele and the Temo River promenade.
Guided tours are conducted by licensed tourist guides registered with the Sardinia Regional Professional Register and are available in Italian, English, French, and Spanish. Services include radioguides, insurance, and navigation on the Temo River. The itinerary is suitable for everyone and does not require any special equipment—just comfortable footwear.
- Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Distance: 3.5 kilometers
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recommended Period: All year round
- Notes: Tickets for monuments, museums, or archaeological areas are not included.
BOSA COAST TREKKING
The route from Managu to Cala Fenuggiu is a truly unique experience. Just a few kilometers from Bosa, in a wild and isolated place where nature remains pristine, this trek offers a diverse array of landscapes.
The coastline, geologically formed by gray tuffs and the more well-known red trachyte, creates a rugged and inaccessible landscape, an ideal environment for the nesting of the griffon vulture, a magnificent bird of prey that exclusively thrives in this area.
We reach Managu Beach via an accessible and scenic dirt road. Passing through dense Mediterranean vegetation dominated by broom, euphorbia, and wild olive trees, we arrive at the promontory overlooking the stunning Cala Fenuggiu.
After the hike, there is an opportunity for swimming at the beautiful Managu Beach.
- Type of Hike: Easy and suitable for everyone
- Duration: Half-day
- Recommended Period: March to July and September to November
- Booking Required
IN THE FOREST OF BADDE ‘E SALIGHES
Mularza Noa, together with the areas of Mandra Puddata and Ortakis, forms a region of significant natural interest. The trail starts just below the Ortakis Nuraghe and descends into a dense forest of ancient holm oaks and centuries-old holly trees.
One of the most striking features along this trail is the incredible variety of green hues. The high humidity levels in this part of Sardinia create an ideal environment for mosses and lichens, which coexist with important endemic species such as Ribes sandalioticum and Osmunda regalis, the largest fern species found in Europe.
On the plateau overlooking the Mularza Noa gorge, the standout feature is undoubtedly the yew tree (Taxus baccata), a species that has become quite rare in Sardinia. The trail leads down to the waterfall (S’Istrampu de Mularza Noa), where the sound of rushing water becomes more intense, especially during the rainy season.
The trail is relatively easy, making it ideal for school groups and nature enthusiasts.
- Type of Hike: Easy and suitable for everyone
- Duration: Half-day
- Recommended Period: February to June and September to November
- Booking Required
HIKE IN MOUNT SANT’ANTONIO
Mount Sant’Antonio is a volcanic formation approximately 800 meters high, boasting significant environmental, naturalistic, and archaeological value. From its summit, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding territory. At the peak, there is a small rural church dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua.
Program Details:
- 9:00 AM: Meeting at the exhibition area in Monte Sant’Antonio with environmental hiking guides.
- Start of the Hike: Participants will begin a naturalistic excursion through the area’s unique and extensive natural heritage. Along the trail, the hike offers views through the forest, leading to the base of Nuraghe Ascusa—a single-tower nuraghe hidden within the dense vegetation.
- Continuing along the “Intro” and “Monte” trails, participants will arrive at the Sant’Antonio park, a fairy-tale-like forest setting. The park features a picnic area where visitors can enjoy a packed lunch before resuming the hike back to the meeting point.
Additional Information:
- Type of Hike: Easy and suitable for everyone.
- Duration: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
- Inclusions: Certified environmental hiking guide available for the entire day.
Guided forest walk along the “Intro” and “Monte” trails.
A tasting platter of local products.
Insurance coverage.
“APERITEMO” ON THE TEMO RIVER (Aperitif on Board)
Enjoy a unique experience to admire Bosa from an extraordinary perspective: the Temo River, which runs through the entire city and is the only navigable river in Sardinia.
During this one-hour boat ride, you’ll feel the magic of the past in this ancient medieval town. The journey passes through the entire city, including the artisanal district of the old tanneries, the Old Bridge made of trachyte (built in 1872), and ends in the area where the Roman city of Bosa Vetus once stood and the ancient cathedral dedicated to St. Peter the Apostle. A carefully curated selection of wines, accompanied by delightful aperitifs prepared by local businesses, will complement the beauty of the landscape.
The price includes:
- 1 bottle of wine for every 2 people.
- 1 aperitif box for 2 people.
- Boat ride on the Temo River.
- Service fees.
Meeting Point:
8:15 PM at Bosa City – Old Bridge.
This excursion is very easy and suitable for everyone.
EXCURSION IN THE GULF OF BOSA
Don’t miss the chance to explore a wild and nearly untouched coastline, where you can admire beaches, bays, and natural pools that are rarely visible from land, such as the stunning coves of Compoltitu, Managu, and Cala Rapina.
The Gulf experience, home to the griffon vulture, begins in Bosa and stretches to the Capo Marrargiu promontory, historically known as the Hill of Mercury (Ermaeum akron), which served as a safe haven for ancient sailors. These coastal spots are perfect for extraordinary, relaxing, and refreshing swims in emerald waters and for enjoying snorkeling. Guaranteed fun to share with friends and family.
Details:
- Easy excursion suitable for everyone.
- What to bring: water, sunscreen, hat, snorkel mask, fins (if you use them), and a camera.
The excursion can be conducted by boat or dinghy:
Boat:
- Duration: 09:00 AM – 1:15 PM
- Departure points:
- Old Bridge, Bosa City
- Baja Romantica Bridge, Bosa Marina
Dinghy:
- Duration: 09:15 AM – 1:15 PM
- Departure point: Bosa Marina
- Note: Not recommended for children aged 0–5 years.
UPSTREAM EXPLORATION OF THE TEMO RIVER
A unique experience to admire Bosa from an unusual perspective: the Temo River, which flows through the entire town and is the only navigable river in Sardinia.
During a navigation lasting approximately one hour, you will feel the magic of the past of this ancient medieval village. The route passes through the entire city, including the artisanal district of the old tanneries and the Old Bridge, made of trachyte in 1872. It continues to the historic site of Roman Bosa Vetus and the ancient cathedral dedicated to Saint Peter the Apostle.
This excursion is very easy, making it suitable for everyone.
THE GREEN TRAIN OF SARDINIA- MACOMER-BOSA
Experience the thrill of traveling on a historic train along one of the oldest railways in Sardinia, now a tourist line. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes that shift suddenly between sea, hills, and mountains — this is the Green Train.
Moving at a slow pace on narrow tracks, you’ll pass through architectural and engineering marvels such as bridges and tunnels, all immersed in the Mediterranean scrub. Along the way, discover vineyards, oak trees, olive groves, mastic bushes, myrtles, and asphodels. With this train journey, you can savor the excellence of local products, uncover the secrets of the renowned Malvasia wine of Bosa, marvel at the artistic wonders of small villages, and explore the mysteries of the ancient medieval abbey of Santa Maria di Corte.
This excursion is easy and suitable for everyone, with departure options from both Macomer and Bosa Marina.
- Duration: Half-day or full-day options
- Cost Includes:
- Green train journey
- Tourist guide on board
- Radioguide availability
- Guided tours
- Local product tastings
- Insurance
EXCURSION TO THE ASINARA ISLAND
The excursion to Asinara Island, home to the curious white donkeys, offers the chance to discover and explore a small terrestrial paradise. Declared a National Park in 1997, the island’s unique charm stems from over a century of isolation.
Following the island’s only road, you can visit Asinara’s “historical sites,” such as:
- The Fornelli Bay
- The Sanitary Station at Cala Reale and its quarantine facilities
- The small village of Cala d’Oliva
The journey also showcases remarkable natural and scenic wonders, including Cala Sant’Andrea and the small islets of Cala di Sgombro.
EXCURSION TO STINTINO AND ALGHERO
Located on the Capo Falcone promontory, Stintino is one of Sardinia’s most renowned tourist destinations, famous for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters.
The excursion offers the opportunity to spend wonderful moments at one of Stintino’s most beautiful beaches. Continuing towards Alghero, you will be captivated by:
- The grandeur of its medieval bastions, built to protect the city.
- The picturesque historic center and its stunning artistic and architectural treasures.
Alghero boasts a glorious history as the only Catalan city in Sardinia, a heritage still preserved in its dialect, traditions, and cuisine today.
THE OGLIASTRA GREEN TRAIN
Our excursion aboard the Green Train of Ogliastra begins at the Villagrande station and continues towards Sadali.
This is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting excursions, taking you through the forests of the highest mountains on the island, those of the Gennargentu Massif. The journey follows a section of the tourist railway line, which, at 159 km, is the longest in Italy and rightly considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.
Upon reaching Sadali station, the excursion continues with a guided tour of the karst caves of Is Janas (The Fairies).
These caves, stretching about 300 meters, are rich in unique stalactite and stalagmite formations, alongside a one-of-a-kind cave fauna.
EXCURSION IN BARBAGIA: ORGOSOLO, NUORO, AND MAMOIADA
The excursion takes us to the heart of Nuoro Province, where we discover the most characteristic aspects of a region where time seems to stand still.
We will visit Nuoro with its beautiful museums, the capital of the namesake province since 1926. The journey continues to Orgosolo, one of the most renowned towns in the area, which has become an important tourist destination due to its unique murals. These murals serve as tangible and unique testimonies of Sardinian and broader historical narratives, set against the spectacular backdrop of the Supramonte landscape. Additionally, the small town of Mamoiada is worthy of a visit, famous for its picturesque carnival masks: the Mamuthones and Issohadores.
BOAT OR DINGHY TRIPS
A trip along Sardinia’s stunning coastline is an absolute must when visiting the island.
Sardegna Rurale collaborates with various charter companies throughout Sardinia to select the best excursions for your vacation.
La Maddalena Archipelago
The journey begins in the small town of Palau, where you’ll board an authorized motorboat for an excursion among the islands. The route follows the coastline of the main island, La Maddalena, heading toward the stunning area known as the “Natural Pools,” famed for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful seabeds. Here, there will be a short stop for swimming.
Next, the navigation continues to Budelli Island to admire the iconic Pink Beach (“Spiaggia Rosa”) before reaching Santa Maria Island. Visitors can either relax on the beach or take a pleasant walk to the lighthouse. Lunch is served onboard.
In the afternoon, there’s a stop at Spargi Island, where you can enjoy a swim at the picturesque Cala Corsara.
Gulf of Orosei
This excursion departs from Cala Gonone, in the Dorgali area. Traveling by dinghy, you’ll experience a magical day in the Gulf of Orosei. Your guide, experienced in navigation and local secrets, will showcase the area’s coves, caves, and coastline.
The trip includes stops at spectacular beaches like Cala Biriola, Cala dei Gabbiani, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Luna.
Additionally, you can opt to visit either the Bue Marino Caves or the Fico Caves (entrance tickets not included).
EXCURSIONS IN SUPRAMONTE AND GENNARGENTU
Trekking to Sardinia’s highest peaks, featuring spectacular panoramas, explorations through canyons, sinkholes, and ancient forests in Supramonte, including trekking along the cliffs of Gola di Gorropu, Europe’s deepest canyon.
Excursion in Supramonte di Orgosolo
The Supramonte of Orgosolo is among the most pristine areas in Europe. The excursion leads to Monte S. Giovanni, at an altitude of 1,316 meters, rising amid the ancient Montes forest. From this vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking views spanning the Gennargentu mountain range to the distant Marghine-Goceano chains. A must-visit includes the murals in the village of Orgosolo, offering unique and tangible stories of Sardinian history. The excursion also includes a traditional Sardinian lunch hosted by Orgosolo locals.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: Full day
- Recommended Seasons: Spring and Autumn (available in summer upon request).
Excursion to Tiscali
Located in the Lanaittu Valley, where the territory of Oliena meets Dorgali, Monte Tiscali features a unique limestone summit with a karstic depression. Within the sinkhole, remnants of a late Nuragic village lie hidden amid remarkable vegetation. The journey begins with a 4×4 drive to the base of the mountain, followed by a scenic hike to the sinkhole. After enjoying a packed lunch with local products, the return includes optional visits to Sa Oche Cave and Su Gologone spring.
- Difficulty: Medium
- Duration: Full day
- Recommended Seasons: Spring and Autumn (available in summer upon request).
Excursion to Gola di Gorropu
The Gola di Gorropu canyon, whose walls exceed 400 meters in height, forms a natural boundary between Supramonte di Orgosolo and Urzulei and is considered Europe’s tallest canyon. The excursion begins with a 6 km off-road drive, followed by a 30-minute descent through oak and arbutus forests to the canyon’s entrance. Hiking along the Flumineddu riverbed, carved over millennia, the trail becomes more challenging towards the canyon’s end. The return trek includes a 45-minute ascent, ending with a snack of local delicacies.
- Difficulty: Medium/High
- Duration: Full day
- Recommended Seasons: Spring and Autumn (available in summer upon request).
Excursion to Punta La Marmora
At 1,834 meters above sea level in the Arzana area, Punta La Marmora is Sardinia’s highest peak. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views encompassing nearby valleys, Perda Liana, Supramonte, the Marghine and Goceano chains, and even the Sette Fratelli mountains in the south and Limbara peaks in the north. The ascent chosen by Cooperativa Esedra starts at the S’Arena Refuge in Desulo, with a mix of off-road driving and hiking. The final challenging climb to the summit rewards visitors with unparalleled views.
- Difficulty: Medium/High
- Duration: Full day
- Recommended Seasons: Spring and Autumn.
OTHER EXCURSIONS IN SARDINIA
With scheduled departures, we also organize excursions to the most beautiful destinations on the island, ensuring your Sardinian experience is filled with unforgettable moments. These include:
- Asinara Island
- La Maddalena Archipelago
- Tour of the Land of Giants at Monte Prama
- Tharros and the beaches of the Sinis Peninsula
- Mini-cruise in the Gulf of Orosei
- Trekking at Tiscali
- Trekking to Cala Luna
- …and many more!
