On the Shepherds’ trail through the Forest and Natural Springs

Shepherds can be considered the soul of the traditional Sardinian economy and in some ways they are the expression of the lifestyle, made up of hard work and slow paced rhythms, which have contributed to making Ogliastra the land of centenarians. The shepherds are the true connoisseurs of the territory in which they let the flocks graze but they are also the connoisseurs of those elements necessary for life, on which to be able to count during the months of distance from families. Among these, great importance is given to water, a scarce and precious resource, which shepherds have always had to consider when planning their trips.

Water is a precious element in general but it is particularly so in Sardinia where, in its essential value, it has been worshipped for millennia. Water is life and in the mountains of Ogliastra it is perhaps something more, an element of long life but also of good health for its inhabitants. It is in these mountains that, being able to reach and go past a century of life is not uncommon. Come and discover its secrets in this simple half-day hike, suitable for the whole family, during which we will discover the details of the essential lifestyle of the shepherds and the anecdotes of the forest.

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Route details:

Path length: 6,5 km
Total walk: about 2,5 hours
Gradient: +/- 120 m
Lowest/Highest point: 834m/930m asl
Difficulty: E – easy (suitable for anyone)

Transport:

Own car (but it is also possible to arrange pick-up at your hotel, resort or B&B if needed)

Meeting place and time:

08:30 am at Piazza Fra’ Locci – Tortolì
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/4JUeusypJxNYdF5C6
Alternative meeting point may be arranged.

The appropriate toolkit a responsible hiker should bring along:

Hiking shoes with ankle support
Comfortable and layered clothing suitable for the season
A waterproof jacket
A litre of water per person
Fresh fruit, snack
A bag to take away any waste (we don’t take anything, we don’t leave anything)
Change of clothes to be left in the car
The will to spend a nice day in good company

Also, in the warmer months, it will be important to bring along:
Sun protection lotion
A shading hat
Mineral salt supplements

Guide:

This hike is led by Gianfranco Comida, registered as a professional Hiking and Nature interpreting Guide with the Region of Sardinia (n. 799) and with the AIGAE national register (SA496). The guide is covered by third party liability but each participant is responsible for their own insurance cover, which is normally included in their travel insurance.

How to Book:

This excursion runs every Friday from May to October. Contact us to find out about prices. This excursion can also be offered as a private experience for a group of any size upon request.

The excursion is subject to a minimum and maximum number of participants. For this reason, a reservation is necessary. In case of severe weather conditions, the excursion could undergo variations or be cancelled. Should this happen, you will be duly informed.