A trip to Montiferru, little known, far from elite tourism but full of surprises

In recent years, tourism has seen a growing demand for authenticity and genuine experiences. Modern travellers are increasingly looking for destinations that offer direct contact with local culture, nature that is as uncontaminated as possible and authentic, non-stereotyped local traditions.

This phenomenon is particularly evident in western Sardinia.

Alghero is one of the most touristic destinations in Sardinia, but mass tourism has transformed the city, significantly increasing prices and making it an increasingly commercial destination.

Bosa, with its colourful houses and the Temo river, has become one of the most photographed places on the island. But due to the high influx of tourists, the town has seen an exponential growth in accommodation facilities within the village and is changing its appearance.

Yet, a few kilometres from these places, Montiferru represents a completely different world. Here, mass tourism has never arrived. The small villages scattered between the sea and the hills retain an authentic atmosphere far from the logic of commercial tourism. The absence of large tourist infrastructures has allowed the landscape and traditional way of life to be preserved.

Credits Sardegna Turismo

Those who choose to visit Montiferru will rarely find crowded beaches, they can explore paths immersed in nature made of centuries-old woods, meet artisans who pass on ancient crafts and a gastronomy that is perhaps not refined but linked to the authentic pastoral and peasant traditions of the “real” Sardinia. It is a place where time seems to pass more slowly, where hospitality is still genuine and familiar, and where the travel experience is linked to the discovery of an almost untouched territory.

• Cuglieri: This charming village is known for the Basilica of Santa Maria della Neve, one of the most impressive churches in Sardinia. The city boasts a long tradition in the production of high-quality olive oil, thanks to the centuries-old olive groves that surround the area. Sa Panada Cuglieridana is a sort of pie, made of flour, water, salt and lard, it is stuffed with ingredients such as meat, broad beans, peas, saffron and Cuglieri olives. They are available all year round thanks to local artisan workshops.
• Santu Lussurgiu: a village with an almost medieval appearance and characterized by narrow paved streets and stone houses, is famous for its artisanal knife production and leather processing. Here, in addition to excellent pecorino cheeses, if you have the chance, don’t miss a nice “bue rosso” steak, a fine beef raised locally and cooked on the grill.
• Scano di Montiferro: This village is renowned for its pure water springs and the lush forests that surround it. Local artisanal production includes ceramics and traditional fabrics. In this town the main protagonist is bread: Pane incasau (ladu bread with tomato sauce), Petta imbinada (bread ‘e chivalzu with pork in red wine), Pane dorau (fried bread with egg batter), Papassinos antigos (typical Scanian dessert with walnuts and raisins)
• Seneghe: Known for its honey production and its holm oak forests, this town is a point of reference for culture and poetry, hosting the Poetry Festival every year that attracts artists from all over the island. The extra virgin olive oil produced here is among the most prized in Sardinia. Sa fae a landinu is the traditional dish of Seneghe made with fresh ripe broad beans boiled with salt, fresh garlic and a slice of lemon added at the end of cooking.
• Santa Caterina di Pittinuri, a picturesque coastal village known for its white limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. The main beach is nestled between cliffs and offers a tranquil setting ideal for those seeking relaxation away from the crowds. The area is also popular with surfers for the waves that crash on the surrounding coast.

Credits Sardegna Turismo

Trekking and Mountain Biking in Montiferru

Montiferru offers several trekking and mountain bike trails immersed in a forest of an intense green that you would not expect in Sardinia

Trekking

Tamuli Trail (16.2 km, +370 m): A panoramic route that passes through archaeological sites such as the betili and the tombs of the giants of Tamuli, passing through the Monte di Sant’Antonio (850 m) with a view of the Gulf of Bosa.
Pischina Sicca Trail (31.4 km, +850 m): A more challenging itinerary that passes through lush woods, the Pischina Sicca lake and the Nuraghe Urassala, offering spectacular views along the climb of Frida.
Rocca Traessa Ultra Trail (60 km, +1,260 m): A route for experts that includes the natural amphitheater of Pattola, historic trails such as Su Camminu de Altoriu and Matta ‘e Arghentu, and spectacular rock formations such as Sas Pedras Nieddas, with views from the Gulf of Bosa to Monte Corrasi.

Mountain Bike

The Montiferru is also ideal for mountain biking, with trails marked by Trailforks and Wikiloc that vary in length, altitude difference and difficulty. The Scano di Montiferro area is particularly popular, offering technical and panoramic routes for all levels of experience.

Water sports

Snorkeling and scuba diving: The crystal clear waters and seabeds rich in marine life make the area perfect for snorkeling. In particular, Santa Caterina di Pittinuri and S’Archittu offer spectacular scenery with underwater caves and submerged cliffs to explore.
Surfing and windsurfing: The Montiferru coast is exposed to mistral winds, creating ideal conditions for surfing and windsurfing enthusiasts and is perhaps the most popular area in Sardinia for surfers due to its consistent waves.
Sport fishing: Fishing from the shore or from a boat is very popular, with the possibility of catching species such as sea bass, gilt-head bream and amberjack. Some points of the coast are also ideal for free-diving underwater fishing.

Where to sleep in Montiferru

Located in the picturesque village of Santa Caterina di Pittinuri, Felix Hotel La Baja offers a unique view of the sea and the historic tower overlooking the promontory.

Immersed in the serenity of the small gulf that overlooks the village, the hotel offers its guests a restaurant, a swimming pool and a pool bar perfect for enjoying a spectacular view of the sea. It is the ideal base for discovering natural wonders such as the famous S’Archittu beach and the Sinis Peninsula, without sacrificing comfort, fine cuisine and proximity to the beach.

Visiting Montiferru means immersing yourself in an authentic Sardinia, where traditions are still alive and nature reigns supreme. It is a perfect destination for those who want to discover unexplored places, taste local cuisine and live genuine experiences away from conventional tourist routes.
And we are waiting for you at the hotel!