Between crystal clear sea and wild nature: some of the best nature trails in Sardinia

For those who love nature and adventure, this island offers an incredible variety of routes to experience on foot, by bike or by kayak. Let’s discover together the best nature itineraries in three iconic areas of the east coast: in the north of Gallura, the Marine Protected Area of ​​Tavolara and Ogliastra.

Gallura: between granites sculpted by the wind and unique panoramas

In the north of Sardinia, Gallura enchants with its granite rocks shaped by the wind, cork oak forests and picture-postcard coastal views. This area, which is home to renowned locations such as Santa Teresa Gallura, Arzachena, Palau and the La Maddalena Archipelago, is perfect for those seeking authentic nature and varied routes.

Trekking: Monte Limbara Trail
The Monte Limbara massif, the highest in Gallura and the second in Sardinia, offers unparalleled views all the way to Corsica. The trail starts from Vallicciola, among centuries-old holm oaks and cork oaks, and reaches the summit of Punta Balistreri (1,362 m). Along the way you can spot mouflons, golden eagles and landscapes that remain etched in your memory.
Difficulty: medium
Length: 8 km return
Duration: approximately 4 hours

By bike: Capo Testa Ring and Valle della Luna
A panoramic route for MTB or gravel bikes that starts from Santa Teresa Gallura and follows the granite coast of Capo Testa, famous for its rocks sculpted by the wind. From here you enter the suggestive Valle della Luna, a mystical and fascinating place that has been a destination for alternative tourism since the 1970s.
Difficulty: medium
Length: 20 km
Terrain: mixed (asphalt and dirt)

By kayak: La Maddalena Archipelago
For the more trained (and possibly with a local guide) paddling through the turquoise waters of the La Maddalena Archipelago is truly an unforgettable experience. You will discover hidden coves, clear seabeds and fascinating granite formations. Starting from one of the beaches of La Maddalena you can reach the island of Spargi, perfect for a stop and some memorable snorkeling.
Recommended route: La Maddalena – Spargi – Cala Corsara – return
Duration: full day
Difficulty: medium – highly recommended with a local guide

Our closest Felix Hotel to these experiences is the Felix Hotel La Coluccia in Santa Teresa Gallura
Overlooking one of the most suggestive stretches of the coast and surrounded by an uncontaminated landscape, the Hotel La Coluccia represents an elegant refuge a few steps from the golden sands of Conca Verde and near the seaside village of Santa Teresa Gallura, offering guests moments of tranquility and a splendid view of the Maddalena Archipelago and the island of Spargi.
Inspired by the architecture of a contemporary residence and recently enhanced with new details, the Hotel La Coluccia combines a modern style with references to Sardinian culture. The structure hosts two gourmet spaces and a wellness area designed for those who want a holiday of personal care and tranquility.

Credits Sardegna Turismo

Tavolara and the Marine Protected Area: adventures between sky and sea

In the south of Gallura, the Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area is a corner of Sardinia where nature seems to have been created… Instagram-friendly. Wild islets, incredible seabeds and quiet beaches make it ideal for kayaking, relaxing bike rides and trekking with surprising views.

Trekking: Punta Cannone Trail, Tavolara Island
One of the most exciting routes in the whole of Sardinia. The trail leads to the summit of Tavolara Island, the “mountain that rises from the sea”, with a 360° view of the entire north-eastern coast. The company of a guide is highly recommended.
Difficulty: high (for expert hikers)
Duration: 5-6 hours return
Access: by boat from Porto San Paolo

By bike: Capo Coda Cavallo Coast
A perfect cycling route for those who love cycling through suggestive landscapes. Starting from San Teodoro, you cross lagoons and beaches, with the possibility of spotting pink flamingos in the San Teodoro pond. The itinerary reaches the promontory of Capo Coda Cavallo, with enchanting views of Tavolara and Molara.
Difficulty: easy
Length: 18 km round trip
Terrain: asphalt and light dirt

By kayak: Tour between Tavolara and Molara
An unmissable kayak excursion between Tavolara and Molara. Starting from Porto Taverna, you follow the coast to the famous natural pools of Molara: transparent waters and marine fauna that you can explore with a mask and fins. To be done with calm sea conditions
Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: medium
Recommended equipment: snorkeling mask

But which is the closest Felix Hotel to this area? The Hotel Residence Porto San Paolo is located right in the heart of the lively coastal village.
It overlooks the imposing Tavolara Island and welcomes visitors in an atmosphere of tranquility and well-being, located near the Marine Area
The large and airy spaces are furnished with contemporary taste to offer a comfortable and functional experience: welcoming accommodations, also available with kitchenette, bookable with breakfast or half-board. The resort is embellished with a terrace with a panoramic swimming pool, ideal for admiring the profile of the Tavolara Island, and also offers a poolside lounge bar and a restaurant that adds a creative note to the local cuisine.


Credits Sardegna Turismo

 

Outdoor experiences in Ogliastra: the wild soul of Sardinia

On the eastern coast, Ogliastra represents the purest and most remote Sardinia. Imposing cliffs, thick forests and hidden coves make this area a true paradise for hikers and adventure lovers. Every route here is a journey into the authentic beauty of the island.

Trekking: Selvaggio Blu (Baunei – Cala Goloritzé section)
The Selvaggio Blu is the most iconic and challenging trek on the island. An accessible section from Baunei to Cala Goloritzé allows you to experience this experience alone or with local guides: you walk on paths suspended between the sky and the sea, among the scents of juniper and dizzying views. There are now various versions of this very famous route that can last up to 5-6 days.
Difficulty: easy – medium – high. Recommended with a local guide
Duration: 1 to 6 days
Access: shuttle or 4×4 to the starting point

By bike: Gairo Taquisara – Ulassai
A fascinating journey in the Ogliastra hinterland, among plateaus, canyons and lunar landscapes. From Gairo Taquisara (known for its cave) you reach Ulassai, a village that has now become an international must for climbing and contemporary art, crossing disused railway tunnels and timeless views.
Difficulty: medium-high
Length: 25 km
Substrate: dirt road and asphalted sections

By kayak: Costa di Baunei
The coast of Baunei, with its caves, cliffs and coves reachable only by sea, is one of the most fascinating in Europe. Starting from Santa Maria Navarrese, you can reach Cala Mariolu, or continue towards Cala dei Gabbiani and Grotta del Fico for an immersive and silent experience. It is preferable to tackle it with calm sea conditions
Duration: half a day to a full day
Difficulty: variable (depends on experience and sea conditions)

The perfect Felix Hotel to experience these emotions is our Galanias Hotel Retreat in Bari Sardo in the heart of coastal Ogliastra.
A few steps from the beach of Torre di Barì, the structure offers a sense of absolute peace and spectacular views of the coastal landscape. The hotel, located not far from the town of Bari Sardo, is divided into two distinct areas: the main building, which dominates the view of the historic Torre di Barì, and the recently built Garden area, immersed in the fragrant greenery of the Mediterranean scrub. Here, a new swimming pool enriches the atmosphere, making the stay perfect for those who want to regenerate in close contact with nature and rediscover well-being and tranquility.

Sardinia is an island to be experienced in movement, where every step, pedal stroke or paddle offers different emotions. From the rocky paths of Limbara to the hidden coast of Baunei, passing through the clear seabed of Tavolara, this island has the power to conquer every traveler. Whether you are a trekking lover, a curious cyclist or a sea explorer, Sardinian nature will surprise you and stay with you for a long time.

And we are waiting for you at Felix Hotels!

 

 

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Sardinia is an island to be experienced in motion, where every step, pedal stroke or paddle offers different emotions. From the rocky paths of Limbara to the hidden coast of Baunei, passing through the clear seabed of Tavolara, this island has the power to conquer every traveler.

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