Sardinia, an island in the Mediterranean, is part of Italy, known for its unique culture, language (Sardinian), and stunning landscapes. Despite common thinking, Sardinia is not part of Spain, but has a rich history influenced by various cultures.

Sardinia is famous for beautiful beaches like Costa Smeralda and diverse outdoor activities. While often seen as expensive, especially in tourist areas, there are ways to explore Sardinia affordably, with climbing and hiking especially. It's a place where outdoor lovers, like hikers and climbers, can enjoy holidays without spending too much.

Imagine an island where mountains and sea come together to create a playground of adventures. There are ancient forests, deep valleys, and trails that lead to hiking trails and rock cliffs of unmatched beauty. The weather is perfect almost all year, with mild autumn and spring seasons, making it an attractive destination year-round. Thanks to this guide, you’ll discover the wild and beautiful heart of the Mediterranean, learning everything you need to know for your next outdoor adventures. We’ll break down all the information we collected during 3+ years spent organizing climbing and hiking trips, in collaboration with skilled Certified Guides, like Marco and Micol:

Sardinia offers diverse climbing opportunities, including sport climbing and multi-pitch, where the heat of summer and the cool of winter play to the climber's advantage. With seasons dictating the climb, from October to April, climbers of all levels find their haven in different climbing spots, like Cala Gonone with hundreds of routes suitable for various levels. In summer, shaded crags like Ulassai offer respite from the heat. Sport climbing is popular in best from spring to autumn. If you’re a Multi-pitch enthusiast, you’ll find your paradise in Baunei, an area that offers numerous routes with the best conditions in cooler months, from October to April. This chapter’s goal is to provide you with enough information for self-planning your climbing holiday on this magical island.

No worries if you’re still walking your first steps into the world of climbing. In fact, many affordable solutions are available for exploring this land alongside local professional guides and new friends, like multi-day group trips visiting the island’s best crags.

Domusnovas is located in the south, near Cagliari, and offers over 600 routes. It's surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including caves and the Grotto of San Giovanni, making it a hotspot for adventure. Jerzu and Ulassai Together, boast around 1000 single-pitch routes. They cater to all climbers, from beginners to advanced, and offer a mix of challenges. Cala Goloritzè is a destination on its own: this remote bay, known for its picturesque Punta Caroddi, provides climbers with a handful of multi-pitch routes. It's perfect for those seeking a thrilling climb with a view of the Mediterranean Sea. Cala Gonone, nestled on the eastern coast of Sardinia, provides access to over 900 routes that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers. The climbing in Cala Gonone is known for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, making it a memorable experience.

Sardinia is an amazing spot for climbing, with its beautiful limestone offering over 7,000 sport climbing routes. This variety means there's climbing for every level and taste, from crags in the mountains to spots by the sea. Not only is the climbing great, but the island also has delicious food, friendly people, and stunning views. Popular areas like Cala Gonone, Domusnovas, Isili, Ulassai, and Jerzu provide fantastic single-pitch routes, while Supramonte offers big wall adventures. With affordable travel and year-round climbing weather, Sardinia stands out as a top destination for climbers and families alike.

Each of these areas highlights Sardinia's diverse climbing landscape, combining the island's natural beauty with a wide range of climbing experiences.

In Cala Gonone, climbers of all skills will find something to love among the 900 sport routes. Beginners can tackle the 401 routes rated between 4a and 6a+, while intermediate climbers have 330 routes ranging from 6b to 7a. Advanced climbers can challenge themselves on the 168 routes between 7a+ and 7c+, and even tackle the 49 routes rated 8a and harder. Those interested in multi-pitch adventures have 20 options to choose from, and there are also a few trad routes for enthusiasts.

Supramonte, located near Cala Gonone on Sardinia's northeast coast, is a climbing paradise featuring limestone cliffs that reach up to 600 meters. This area is home to 10 to 25 climbing routes, with difficulties ranging from moderate to very challenging (6c to 8b). Climbers here can enjoy a variety of styles, including both traditional and sport climbing.

The landscape of Supramonte is characterized by its vertical and steep walls, which are adorned with a diverse array of holds such as crimps, pockets formed by water erosion, tufas, and ribs. This variety makes it an engaging place for climbers who enjoy solving technical challenges.

Among the most famous climbs is "Hotel Supramonte," a particularly noteworthy route that spans 370 meters and is graded at 8a+. Located in the Gorropu canyon, this climb is celebrated for its ten intense pitches that traverse the wall's crimps, tufas, and pockets. Another significant route, "Viaje de Los Locos," stretches over 300 meters and peaks at an 8b+ difficulty. Free-climbed by Sasha Digiulian in August 2014, this route features a series of challenging sections that test climbers' skills and endurance.

Jerzu and Ulassai in Sardinia are fantastic places for climbers of all levels, with about 1000 single-pitch routes and a few trad climbing spots too. Here's how you can pick the best spot for your climbing adventure based on what you like and how experienced you are:

Click here for a detailed topo of the area.

Domusnovas is a climber's dream spot in the south of Sardinia, just 50 kilometers west of Cagliari. It's surrounded by amazing sights like underground rivers, caves, and the famous Grotto of San Giovanni. This 800-meter tunnel through a mountain is at the heart of over 600 climbing routes available here, making it a perfect place for climbers at any level.

Domusnovas is like a feast of climbing routes, with 33 areas all centered around the Grotto of San Giovanni. No matter your skill level, you'll find climbs here that fit what you're looking for. The stunning natural beauty and variety of climbs make it a top choice for climbers everywhere.

Isili is a special spot in the middle of Sardinia, a bit south, and it's a great place for rock climbing. Even though it's not by the sea, it's known for having lots of climbing routes that make climbers feel like they're floating in the air.

In Isili, there are 260 routes for climbing, perfect for everyone from beginners to pros. These routes are sorted by how hard they are:

Climbers can choose from 13 different areas in Isili, with routes that go from really easy to super hard, between grades 5.8 and 5.14. If you're just starting, "Pietra Filosofale" is the easiest one to try. "Cervo Spaziale" is a popular spot, so it might be crowded. For climbers looking for a big challenge, the "Urania" area has some of the hardest routes, with grades up to 5.14b.

Isili is unique in Oristano, a growing climbing area in Sardinia that offers a mix of rock types like limestone, basalt, and granite. With its variety of climbs and beautiful, challenging overhangs, Isili is a place where both new and experienced climbers can find exciting challenges. "Cervo Spaziale" is the busiest spot, and "Urania" is where you'll find the hardest climbs.

If you're new to sport climbing and looking for the best places in Sardinia to start, the time of year makes a big difference in choosing your spot. During the winter, Cala Gonone is perfect. It's got safe climbing paths, beautiful views of the sea, and friendly people who can help you learn. But when summer comes and it gets hotter, you'll want to head to Jerzu and Ulassai.

If you’re planning a trip to Cala Gonone, Jerzu or Ulassai for climbing, it might be a good idea to connect with a local climbing center or guide. They can point you to the best beginner-friendly routes and help you have a safe and enjoyable climbing experience in one of the most beautiful parts of Sardinia. Alternatively, you can join other climbers with climbing skills similar to yours on a Mapo Tapo trip to Sardinia, supported by a Local, Certified Mountain Guide and designed to bring you to the best areas depending on the period of the year!

Both Jerzu and Ulassai have everything a beginner needs: safe routes, beautiful nature, and less crowded climbing spots. Plus, you can find climbing schools and instructors to help you out, making sure you have fun and stay safe.

So, if you're planning to climb in Sardinia, remember: Cala Gonone is great for winter, but when summer rolls around, Jerzu and Ulassai are the places to go. They offer a nice mix of easy climbs and beautiful places to see, making your climbing adventure special any time of the year.

Sardinia is a dream spot for anyone who loves climbing. It's not just any place; it's a special island with about 800 different multi-pitch routes that go up high, making it a fantastic choice for an exciting adventure. We can actually say that the island is distinguished from other climbing destinations, like Kalymnos and Sicily, by its multi-pitch routes: here, you'll find everything from easy climbs for beginners to more challenging ones for the pros, and… a wild environment! After all, it’s where world-class alpinists like Tommy Caldwell, Alex Honnold & Brette Harrington spend their holidays.

Climbing in Sardinia is all about amazing experiences. It's got a bit of everything - from challenging climbs that give you a real sense of achievement to stunning views of the sea. The climbs here are longer and more involved, which means you get to spend more time enjoying the heights and the scenery.

Starting your climbing adventure in Sardinia is pretty simple. All you need is an extra rope along with your usual climbing gear. This makes it easy to get ready for your trip, even if you're flying on a budget airline.

Climbing in Sardinia is more than just a sport; it's a chance to be in awe of the beautiful surroundings. With a wide range of climbs for all skills and the beautiful sea as your backdrop, Sardinia offers a unique experience that combines excitement, beauty, and the joy of discovery. So, if you're thinking about where to go for your next climbing adventure, Sardinia should definitely be on your list.

In the southwest part of the island, places like Masua and Gutturu Pala offer climbs where the sky meets the sea. If you're near Dorgali and Urzulei, you'll find great spots with different types of climbs, including some that are perfect for those just starting out. Then there's the area around the Gulf of Orosei and Supramonte di Baunei, where climbers can enjoy the wilderness and breathtaking coastline views, including the famous Aguglia at Cala Goloritzé.

The adventure starts right from the sea and goes down the other side, mixing in some climbing and rappelling. It's a great climb for anyone, local or visiting, any time of year because of its location and length. It's easy to get to, just a 5-minute walk from where you park, and it gives you amazing views, especially of Punta Giradili.

Climbing here is peaceful and rewarding, with stunning scenery. There are two ways down: rappelling or walking down a ridge, which takes about 20 minutes to get back to the base of Pedra Longa. Remember to bring all your climbing gear, including a helmet. You'll need around twelve quickdraws and a rope (having a second one is a good idea for safety).

Climbers flock to Pan di Zucchero for its pristine limestone walls that offer both challenge and reward. The stunning surroundings, visible from the boat ride to the base, enhance the experience. L'Incubo di Francesco, a 50-meter climb on perfect compact limestone, is a standout route, showcasing the variety of climbing experiences available. Logistics are straightforward: a moderate fitness level is required, and a short boat ride from the coast brings climbers to the base. From there, climbers ascend to enjoy panoramic views of the Iglesiente coast before choosing between a via ferrata traverse or an aerial rappel back to the boat for the descent.

Climbing Pan di Zucchero provides not just physical challenge, but a sensory experience against the backdrop of the Mediterranean's azure waters.

For trad climbing in Sardinia, the most popular spots include Jurassic Park in Su Santu and Gola di Gorroppu in Southern-east Sardinia, each offering around 10 routes. Dorgali, close to Cala Gonone, provides about 30 routes, while Capo Pecora, near Buggerru on the west coast, has potential with approximately 20-30 routes across at least 10 sectors.

Bouldering is also a hidden gem in Sardinia, particularly along the northern coast, developed by locals over 20 years but still largely unknown to European climbers. The "Primitive Bouldering" crew is actively developing this area. For more detailed information on bouldering spots, a guide from 2022 is available at Pietra di Luna, although it may not cover all developed potentials.

Hiking in Sardinia is like stepping into a beautiful, wild world. This island in the Mediterranean Sea is perfect for everyone who loves to hike, from beginners to experts. Sardinia has all kinds of trails, from rocky coasts and deep valleys to quiet forests and tall mountains. Hiking here means you get to see some of the most beautiful places and views you can imagine. In this chapter, we’ll focus on some of the best hikes Sardinia offers, starting from the most famous one, the “Selvaggio Blu” trek. For detailed budgeting and costs of hiking in Sardinia, including self-guided hikes, group trips, or guided multi-day hikes, please check out Chapter 4.

In this chapter we have to talk about the Selvaggio Blu, often called the most challenging hike in Italy. But calling it just "challenging" doesn't fully capture what this hike is about. For five days, you'll hike through Sardinia's wildest parts, places you can't get to any other way. The Selvaggio Blu takes you through 43 km in the beautiful Ogliastra area, along a path that feels like it's from another time. You'll see amazing mountains, huge cliffs, and the stunning blue sea. It's a journey far from cities and towns, where you can really feel nature's beauty. Here’s the breakdown of Selvaggio Blu, stage by stage:

Day 1: Arrival Day

Day 2: The Journey Begins

Day 3: Descending to Beauty

Day 5: The Challenge Increases

Day 6: The Grand Finale

Day 7: Departure Day

Selvaggio Blu is more than just walking; you'll need ropes, harnesses, and helmets. These tools are not just for safety; they also let you see incredible views. Even when it gets tough, the breathtaking sights of cliffs diving into the blue sea will give you a boost. The Selvaggio Blu is like no other hike. You won't find easy paths here. Instead, you'll climb over rocks and explore a wild coastline full of beaches, blue waters, cliffs, and ancient trees. It's a chance to see nature at its most wild and beautiful. Several Local Companies will help you set and plan your hiking adventure, so we recommend checking in if you think you’re not autonomous in rappelling down and orienteering through rocky paths. If you want to check out the route, here’s you can download the GPX file.

You have several options for accessing Selvaggio Blu. If you're flying into Cagliari and want to use public transport, here's what to do: Go from Cagliari airport to the bus station and catch the 103 bus. To find out when the bus leaves, check Rome2Rio or Google Maps. The bus ride to Baunei takes about 3 and a half hours. Once you get to Baunei, we can arrange to pick you up and take you to the Rifugio.

If you're coming in a group, you could split the cost of a taxi. A taxi from Olbia airport directly to the Rifugio is about €260 ($280) and fits up to 8 people. From Cagliari airport, it's a bit cheaper at €240 ($260) each way.

Besides the famous Selvaggio Blu (also known as the “Wild Blue”) trek, there are three other paths that really show off the best of what Sardinia's nature has to offer. Each one is special in its own way and can give everyone from beginners to experienced hikers an adventure they'll never forget. Of course, we thought it would be ideal to pack all of these itineraries in a proper 5-day hiking group trip. Micol, long-time partner of Mapo Tapo and Certified Hiking Guide, made sure to design a satisfying and adventurous trip for those who are looking for something different than the standard Selvaggio Blu.

In this chapter, we're going to show you the exciting side of Sardinia that goes beyond walking on trails and climbing rock cliffs. Sardinia is a great place for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their outdoor adventures.

If you like the idea of climbing but want something a bit different, try the via ferratas in Sardinia. These are special climbing paths that have ropes and ladders to help you up. They're a fun way to see some amazing views from high up.

For those who love the water, Sardinia's beaches are perfect for surfing. The waves are great for both beginners and experts, so everyone can have a good time. And the water is so clear, making it awesome for kayaking and snorkeling too. You can paddle around to find secret spots or float above the fish and see what's under the sea.

So, let's dive into all the cool sports you can do in Sardinia.

Sardinia is full of places to explore, whether you're up for climbing, kayaking, or just enjoying the natural beauty. Each area offers its own unique adventures, making Sardinia a perfect spot for outdoor sports fans.

Sardinia is a great place for surfing, especially on its west coast, which some people call "little Australia" because of its big waves and beaches that aren't too crowded. Italy has lots of spots for surfing, but Sardinia stands out. It has perfect spots for both beginners and expert surfers. You'll find good waves here for about 200 days each year, mainly from autumn to spring, with waves sometimes over 3 meters high. This makes it perfect for all surfers, whether you're just starting or you've been surfing for years. Plus, the beautiful surroundings make it even better. You'll find the biggest and most reliable waves in the winter, from November to April.

Capo Mannu is the best spot in Sardinia for skilled surfers, with big waves often coming in. It's not for beginners because of dangers like sharp rocks and strong currents, but they can definitely find a safe spot when the swell is big enough to produce waves also for the long-boards, on the left side of the spot. However, if you're new to surfing, the Costa Verde area has lots of safer spots perfect for starting out.

The San Nicolao beach is on Sardinia's southwest coast, known for its shallow waters, smooth sandy bottom, and the fun of sinking your toes into the soft sand. It's a great spot for hanging out in the water or recovering after surfing a wave, offering a break from rocky seabeds. Nearby, behind the beach's large dunes, there's a beautiful pine forest with trails perfect for mountain biking or walking, adding to the area's charm.

Sardinia is a playground for outdoor sports enthusiasts, offering crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, strong winds perfect for windsurfing, and rugged landscapes ideal for mountain biking.

Snorkeling at Tavolara - Punta Coda Cavallo in Sardinia is a great adventure. You start from a place called San Paolo and go into clear blue water. You'll stop at cool spots like Molara's Natural Pools and some beautiful beaches where you can see lots of fish and pretty underwater plants. This snorkeling trip lets you take your time at each spot, so you really get to enjoy seeing all the underwater life.

For mountain biking in Sardinia, one highlighted trail is the Giro Costa Smeralda, known for its stunning coastal views and wineries offering tastings. Another recommended route is Orosei - Monte Tuttavista, offering a challenging ride with impressive elevation. Both routes showcase Sardinia's beautiful landscapes, making them great options for biking enthusiasts looking for an adventure.

Sardinia is a dream spot for people who love climbing and hiking. It's not as expensive as you might think, especially if you avoid the fancy Costa Smeralda area. The real magic of the island is in its quiet beaches, small towns, and the paths and cliffs that are perfect for your outdoor adventures. Going there when it's not the busy season can save you money and let you enjoy its peaceful beauty almost by yourself.

Even though Sardinia might be cheaper to live in and visit than many places in Italy, and definitely less expensive than places like the UK, Scandinavia, or North America, it's still full of adventure and beauty. For people who love climbing and hiking, it's a great place to explore without spending a lot. If you skip the few very touristy spots, you'll find an island full of culture, history, and natural wonders, just as lovely as other parts of Italy, but without the big costs.

Eating out is affordable if you know where to go. A pizza can cost between about $8 and $20. A full meal with drinks in a simple restaurant might be around $22, but in a fancy place, it could go up to $75 or more. Staying in Sardinia can also be budget-friendly. In the quieter months, you can rent an apartment for about $50 to $65 a night or stay in a hotel for $75 to $130. In the summer, prices do go up a lot.

Sardinia has lots of beautiful places that won't cost you much. If you're careful with your money, you might spend around $55 to $87 a day. Camping is super cheap, around $11 to $22 a day. Or you can find a simple room for about $22 to $27 per person a night. If you want to spend a bit more for comfort, you might use about $130 a day.

For hikers and climbers, guided tours are a great way to see the island. A one-day guided hike can start from about $55, and if you want to go for more days, it could cost around $165. Climbers can find day-long guided climbs for about $110 if you’re a group, and longer adventures might be over $275.

Picture a 7-day trip to Sardinia where you climb for 4 days and spend the rest exploring cool places and chilling at the beach. Mixing exciting climbs with visits to cultural places and beach time costs about $1080 if we don't count the extra climbing stuff. Adding a climbing guide, renting climbing gear, and buying a climbing guidebook brings the total to $2280. This plan shows you how much you might spend on a great Sardinia trip that combines climbing adventures with enjoying the island's culture and beautiful beaches.

If you’re planning a 5-day hiking trip in Sardinia, this table helps you see the possible costs, whether you're going solo, with a guide, in a small group, or on a special trip like Mapo Tapo's Hiking in Sardinia, which seems to be the most convenient solution if you’re looking forward to a hiking guided trip.

If you're dreaming of tackling the Selvaggio Blu trek in Sardinia, here's a quick look at what it might cost. This table compares doing the trek on your own, with a guide, or as part of a small group.

The table covers everything from where you'll stay, your flight, car rental, and even the little things like your guidebook and snacks. This will help you see how much money you might need for a trip like this, whether you're going solo, with friends, or through a company that sets everything up for you.

Depending on your needs, accessing Sardinia shouldn’t be too much of a hassle. If you’re on a budget, you can fly to airports in Cagliari, Olbia, or Alghero, the three main airports you’ll find in Sardinia. Flying directly to one of the island's three main airports is convenient, with budget airlines offering competitive prices from major European cities. This solution will also be the most effective one for travelers flying from US.

Another option is available of course: taking a ferry from places like Rome or Milan is another cheaper, yet slower, option. Buying tickets early and traveling when it's not busy can save money, and you can bring as many luggages as you can carry - quite important if you’re traveling for some outdoor adventures! Sometimes, flying to a big city in Italy and then taking a ferry to Sardinia can also be cheaper, especially if you like seeing the ocean, but logistically more demanding.

For a trip to southern Sardinia, Cagliari Airport, or Cagliari Mario Mameli Airport (CAG), is your best bet. It's close to the city and has a train station right near it. It's the main airport for Ryanair flights in Sardinia. Get to Cagliari by:

For the northwestern part, Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) is the go-to: fewer budget airlines operate here, however in our opinion it offers a good mix between low-cost flights, frequency and distance to the best climbing spots of the entire island. ****

Alghero Airport is another good choice for the northwestern or central areas, with many budget flights from Italy and Europe. it is the smallest airport in Sardinia, and it is designed to make it easy for visitors to get to the Riviera del Corallo area. This might be the best airport between the three if you’re a surfer.

I general, flying to Sardinia can vary in cost depending on whether you're traveling in the high or low season.

Traveling to Sardinia from big European cities like London or Milan varies by season, affecting both availability and price.

Keep in mind, prices can fluctuate based on factors like booking time, specific travel dates, and airline specials. As you may notice, even in the low season there are affordable options for travelers willing to be flexible with their travel plans.

Flying to Sardinia and renting a car when you get there is usually the easiest and fastest option, especially if you're going there to hike and climb. But, if you're bringing your own car or lots of luggage, taking a ferry might work better for you.

You can catch a ferry to Sardinia any day of the year. While they're a bit less frequent in winter, you can always find something: usually, you’ll find a few departure times, late in the morning around 10 AM, and late in the night, around 10 PM. Just remember, taking your car on a ferry can be pretty expensive, and you'll need to book way ahead to get a good deal, especially in summer.

Daytime ferries are faster, taking about 5.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on where you start. The quickest ferry starts in Piombino and goes to Olbia. Overnight ferries are longer, from 8.5 to 12 hours, but can be cheaper and let you sleep in a cabin.

Ferries have comfy cabins if you're going overnight, but there are also seats if you prefer. If you’re close to the dirtbag life and want to save some money, consider spending the night sleeping on one of the many (uncomfortable) couches you’ll find onboard. If you’re going to Sardinia for bouldering, here’s a pro-tip: most of the boats allow you to bring your crash-pad on the deck. Just open it up on the floor and you’ll get an amazing, comfortable mattress where to sleep on! During the trip, the lights won’t be switched off during at night, and you could occasionally hear the TV screens playing some advertising. That being said, the ferry have lots of facilities, like places to eat and play areas for kids, even if a coffee could cost up to 2.50€, which is pretty expensive for Italy.

Lots of companies run ferries to Sardinia, linking it to places in Italy and Europe like Rome, Naples, France, and Barcelona. Not all ferries go to the same places in Sardinia, though.

So, deciding between flying or taking a ferry really depends on if you need to bring a car and how quickly you want to get there.

Traveling to Sardinia by ferry is straightforward, whether you're coming from within Italy or an international port. Here's a simplified guide to help you plan your journey.

How to Reach Sardinia by Ferry from Italy: For exploring Sardinia, Cagliari and Olbia are the top ports to consider. Cagliari is perfect if you're looking to see the southern and central parts of the island, while Olbia gives you easy access to the northeastern coast and the stunning Costa Smeralda.

How to Reach Sardinia by a European Port: If you're coming from outside Italy, there are ferries from France and Spain that can take you directly to Sardinia.

Remember, ferry schedules and routes change often, so it's a good idea to check the latest information before you book. Choosing between Cagliari and Olbia mainly depends on which part of Sardinia you're interested in exploring. Both ports offer excellent gateways to the island, whether you're coming from another Italian city or hopping over from another European country.

In conclusion, Sardinia shines as an outdoor sports haven, offering a rich palette of climbing and hiking experiences. Climbers relish in the diverse opportunities, from sport climbing to challenging multi-pitch routes, set against the backdrop of Sardinia's varied seasons. Areas like Cala Gonone and Baunei provide a wealth of routes that cater to different skill levels and preferences. Meanwhile, hikers can embark on the Selvaggio Blu trek, a journey through breathtaking landscapes and timeless paths. For those seeking a blend of adventure and affordability, Mapo Tapo's hiking and climbing trips tp Sardinia present a cost-effective way to explore the island’s climbing and hiking wonders, making the Sardinian vast natural beauty accessible to all.