Introduction
The north of Sardinia, with its jagged coastline, fragrant pine woods and granite peaks, is a playground for hikers of every level. Whether you’re after easy family strolls along white-sand beaches or challenging day treks across karst landscapes, this area delivers exceptional variety — every trail has its own story, geology and plant life. This guide highlights 10 unmissable trails in northern Sardinia, selected for their beauty, accessibility and the quality of on-site information and facilities. You’ll find exact start addresses, opening hours when applicable, current prices in euros, immersive route descriptions and practical tips to make the most of each hike.
Before you set off, note that Sardinia’s climate changes considerably with the seasons: hot, dry summers; ideal hiking weather in spring and autumn; and mild but sometimes rainy winters. Pack accordingly: sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water (at least 1.5–2 litres per person for half-day hikes), sunscreen, a hat and a paper map or offline GPS. Some trails cross protected areas where access is regulated or ticketed — we list fees and opening times where they apply.
The sections below are numbered 1 to 10 and describe trails we’ve tested and recommend, ranging from easy coastal walks to full-day mountain routes. Each entry includes the trail’s official name, a precise start point (or nearest information center), any entrance or shuttle fees, visiting hours, a detailed description and local tips (best time to go, safety notes, possible variants). Photos and dramatic viewpoints are indicated by image markers to help you picture the terrain before you go. Pack your daypack, charge your GPS and follow these routes to discover northern Sardinia’s most authentic side.
1. Costa Smeralda Coastal Path: Capriccioli to Romazzino
Full name: Sentiero costiero Costa Smeralda (Capriccioli – Romazzino)
Start address: Spiaggia di Capriccioli, Località Capriccioli, 07021 Arzachena OT, Italy
Opening hours: Open 24/7; seasonal facilities (toilets, bars) usually operate 08:00–20:00 in high season (June–September).
Price: The trail is free. Paid parking nearby: Parcheggio Capriccioli, rates vary roughly €2–5 / hour in high season (indicative).
This coastal stretch links the tiny coves of Capriccioli and Romazzino, with views of white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. The path alternates between shaded pine groves and rocky headlands with natural viewpoints. The hike is easy and family-friendly: about 3–4 km round-trip depending on the route you pick. Weathered granite has been carved into natural sculptures; the pink-tinged rock at sunset is particularly stunning.
Local tips: start early to dodge crowds and the midday heat, and bring a snorkel and mask to explore the shallow coves. Park at Parcheggio Capriccioli (Località Capriccioli, 07021 Arzachena OT) and check the information boards for marked trails. Respect private areas around upscale villas. Avoid low tide if you plan to swim comfortably.
2. Monte Limbara Trail: San Pantaleo Loop
Full name: Sentiero anello Monte Limbara (San Pantaleo Loop)
Start address: Parcheggio San Pantaleo, Piazza Regina Elena, 07026 San Pantaleo, Arzachena OT, Italy
Opening hours: Open year-round; best seasons are April–June and September–October to avoid peak summer heat.
Price: Free. Public square parking available (free or voluntary contribution for maintenance).
Monte Limbara is an emblematic granite massif in northeastern Sardinia, reaching up to 1,359 m at its highest sector. The San Pantaleo loop offers varied terrain: cork oak forests, Mediterranean maquis meadows and sweeping views of the Costa Smeralda and inland ranges. The loop is roughly 12 km with moderate difficulty and some rocky sections. The steady ascent provides multiple rest spots and excellent photo opportunities of the “dead stone” formations and dramatic granite stacks.
Local tips: bring ankle-supporting boots and trekking poles for the trickier sections. Carry food and 2–3 litres of water depending on season. Pay attention to signs for nearby military areas (some parts of the massif host installations) and check the route at the San Pantaleo Tourist Office (Ufficio Turistico, Via Rodolfo Morandi 4, 07026 San Pantaleo).
3. Capo Testa Trail: Valley of the Moon
Full name: Sentiero Valle della Luna, Capo Testa
Start address: Parcheggio Capo Testa, Via Capo Testa, 07020 Santa Teresa Gallura SS, Italy
Opening hours: Open 06:00–22:00; parking zones are monitored in high season (June–September).
Price: The trail is free. Seasonal parking fees: €3–8 / day depending on location (indicative).
Valle della Luna at Capo Testa feels almost lunar: huge wind-sculpted granite boulders form a natural labyrinth. The trail skirts cliffs with views towards Corsica and hidden coves. Short but photogenic (2–5 km depending on your chosen route), it’s suitable for most hikers. Sunset here is special — the stone glows gold and pink.
Local tips: choose morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Wear closed shoes for scrambling on rocks. Keep away from cliff edges during strong winds. The village of Santa Teresa Gallura (Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, 07028 Santa Teresa Gallura SS) is a 5–10 minute drive for supplies.
4. La Maddalena Archipelago National Park: Island of Caprera (GTA Variant)
Full name: Sentieri dell’Isola di Caprera, Parco Nazionale Arcipelago di La Maddalena
Start address: Porto di La Maddalena, Via Vittorio Emanuele, 07024 La Maddalena OT, Italy. Access to Caprera via ferry from La Maddalena (approx. 5–10 min).
Opening hours: Park access 08:00–20:00 in high season; park offices: Via Garibaldi 58, 07024 La Maddalena, open 09:00–15:00 (seasonal hours).
Price: Park entry: varies by exhibitions and services (hiking is often free). Ferry La Maddalena–Caprera: about €2–5 one way per person; boat tours around the archipelago: €25–60 depending on duration.
Caprera offers coastal paths and interior trails that pass pristine beaches like Cala Coticcio and Cala Napoletana. The main trail to Punta Rossa provides panoramas of nearby islets and Corsica in the distance. Terrain is mixed: sandy sections, stony paths and forest tracks, with clear waymarking. Options range from short 2–4 km walks to full-day hikes up to 12 km.
Local tips: buy ferry tickets in advance during high season and bring plenty of water — water points are scarce on the island. Respect National Park rules (no camping outside permitted areas, no collecting). Park information centers provide maps and up-to-date advice.
5. Cala Luna Trail: Cave and Crescent Beach
Full name: Sentiero Cala Luna (Grotta del Bue Marino – Cala Luna)
Start address: Porto di Cala Gonone, Via Nazionale, 08022 Dorgali NU, Italy
Opening hours: Open access; boat excursions from Cala Gonone run frequently 09:00–17:00 depending on season.
Price: The trail is free. Cala Gonone–Cala Luna boat taxi: €10–20 one way per person (indicative seasonal rates). Guided boat trips: €25–50.
Cala Luna is famous for its cave (Grotta del Bue Marino) and its crescent-shaped beach framed by limestone cliffs. The most common route starts from Cala Gonone port (or by sea shuttle) and follows the coast for about 8 km if you take the land path, alternating hidden coves and cliff-top viewpoints. For less fit visitors, the boat is a spectacular arrival method. The cave once sheltered the Mediterranean monk seal (bue marino), hence the name.
Local tips: if hiking, leave early and bring a headlamp if you plan to explore the cave (some sections may be restricted). The beach can get crowded — arrive early to secure shade. Respect wildlife and vegetation, take your rubbish with you and avoid lighting fires.
6. Monte Pulchiana and Baia delle Ninfe Trail
Full name: Sentiero Monte Pulchiana – Baia delle Ninfe
Start address: Parcheggio Baia delle Ninfe, Località Baia delle Ninfe, 07028 Santa Teresa Gallura SS, Italy
Opening hours: Open 06:00–20:00 in season; parking usually open all day.
Price: Free. Parking: €2–6 / day in high season (depends on local management).
This route combines a short but scenic climb up Monte Pulchiana with a descent to Baia delle Ninfe, a beach often quieter than the more famous nearby stretches. The hike offers views over the La Maddalena archipelago, shaded pine groves and sculpted rock formations. Walk time is typically 3–5 hours depending on pace and route choices, including moderate uphill sections on rocky paths. It’s a great sunrise hike for photographers.
Local tips: bring a windproof jacket for exposed ridges and check the forecast as coastal areas can be breezy. Look for waymark signs for circular options. Nearby villages host trattorie serving Sardinian specialties after your hike (for example Trattoria La Pineta, Via Nazionale 10, Santa Teresa Gallura).
7. Punta Giglio and Cala Spinosa Trail
Full name: Sentiero Punta Giglio – Cala Spinosa (Area Marina Protetta Capo Testa)
Start address: Parcheggio Punta Falcone, Via Capo Testa, 07020 Santa Teresa Gallura SS, Italy
Opening hours: Open access; seasonal services generally 08:00–19:00.
Price: Free. Parking: €3–7 / day in high season.
This coastal trail links wild coves and rocky capes dotted with low coastal vegetation. Cala Spinosa is a small rocky cove great for snorkeling thanks to its rich seabed. The route includes easy stretches and some spots where you need to watch your footing on uneven rock. The Tyrrhenian Sea panorama is constant and the morning light brings out the vivid marine colors.
Local tips: combine this with a Capo Testa loop for a full day exploring. Bring water shoes to reach small coves and a dry bag to protect electronics. Note shaded spots for your lunch break.
8. Pedra Longa and the Cliffs of Aglientu
Full name: Sentiero Pedra Longa – Capo Testa Aglientu
Start address: Parcheggio Pedra Longa, SP90, 07020 Aglientu SS, Italy
Opening hours: Open during daylight hours; best in spring and autumn.
Price: Free. Parking: free or occasional local contribution.
The Pedra Longa trail crosses fragrant maquis and leads to a dramatic headland called Pedra Longa (long stone). Clifftops afford views over secluded bays and offshore islets. This little-visited route is perfect for those seeking peace and total immersion in nature. Typical duration: 2–4 hours round-trip depending on options.
Local tips: insects can be present in spring — bring repellent. Carry a map or GPS as some sections may be sparsely waymarked; ask for local updates at the bar Le Vecchie Scuole, Via Roma 12, Aglientu for the latest trail conditions.
9. Grande Traversata della Gallura (GTG): Palau–Santa Teresa Section
Full name: Grande Traversata della Gallura (GTG) – Palau to Santa Teresa Gallura section
Start address: Piazza Banchina, Porto di Palau, 07020 Palau SS, Italy
Opening hours: The trail is open year-round; this section is typically covered in 1–2 days depending on pace.
Price: Free. Accommodation in refuges/guesthouses along the route: €25–80 / night depending on comfort.
The Grande Traversata della Gallura is a long-distance route crossing hills, forests and coastlines. The Palau–Santa Teresa segment blends diverse scenery: beaches, cork oak forests and traditional villages. It’s an ideal multi-day micro-adventure for walkers looking to test their legs. The terrain alternates farm tracks, narrow trails and some paved stretches. Book lodgings in advance during high season.
Local tips: plan stages around water sources and villages for resupply. Bring a stove if you intend to cook and be aware of local wild camping rules (often restricted). Reserve B&B and guesthouse stays ahead of time (for example B&B Locanda Gallura, Via Nazionale 33, Palau).
10. Torre di Longonsardo and Capo Falcone Headland Trail
Full name: Sentiero Torre di Longonsardo – Capo Falcone
Start address: Torre di Longonsardo, Strada Statale 125, 07020 Santa Teresa Gallura SS, Italy
Opening hours: Site access 08:00–19:00 in summer; off-season hours vary but access is usually allowed during daylight.
Price: Free. Occasional guided visits of the tower: €5–10 depending on the local organizer (indicative rates).
The Torre di Longonsardo is an old watchtower with sweeping views over the Strait of Bonifacio. The trail to the headland is short but steep — perfect for an afternoon outing. The site combines history and nature: the tower, coastal ruins and viewpoints ideal for watching boat traffic between Corsica and Sardinia. The path is safe but can be windy and calls for caution near the cliff edges.
Local tips: bring binoculars for sea watching and dress for wind. The ruins and tower make a beautiful sunset spot — bring a torch for the return if you stay late. Contact the Museo del Territorio di Santa Teresa Gallura (Via Nazionale 2, 07028 Santa Teresa Gallura) for historical guided tours.
Conclusion
Northern Sardinia is a multi-faceted region: wild coastline, dramatic granite rock formations, pristine islands and summits with distant vistas. The ten trails presented here make a well-balanced selection to explore these riches — from family-friendly walks on the Costa Smeralda and Capo Testa to longer treks like the GTG. Each route offers unique experiences, whether snorkeling off Cala Spinosa, admiring the moonlike rocks at Valle della Luna, or enjoying the island calm of Caprera.
Before you head out, remember a few golden rules: obey signage and national park regulations, leave no trace, carry enough water and appropriate gear, and always tell someone your route if you’re hiking alone. Use local tourist offices and guides for up-to-date maps and trail conditions. In summer anticipate crowds and heat — the best times to hike are early morning and late afternoon.
Finally, Sardinia is also about generous food and warm hospitality: after a day on the trails, take time to taste local specialties (porceddu, seadas, Cannonau wines) and share your adventures with locals. The trails of northern Sardinia offer not only breathtaking scenery but a deep dive into an ancient island culture. Happy trekking and great discoveries!
