Santa Barbara Mining Trail in Sardinia
Santa Barbara Mining Trail in Sardinia
6 days, 5 nights
An adventure along the Santa Barbara Mining Trail on Sardinia’s southwest coast, inside Sardinia’s Geomining Park (UNESCO heritage). Hike breathtaking paths, discover small crystalline coves, rolling Mediterranean shrub-covered hills, and dramatic cliffs, passing through historic villages and significant monuments. Guided visits, local stories, and dinners featuring traditional Sardinian products enrich the experience.
Sardinia, Santa Barbara Mining Trail
→ Guided and organised by Martina Stanga - Certified Environmental Hiking Guide
→ Contacts: Email martina.stanga@gmail.com, WhatsApp +39 331 3386681
⋯ Itinerary
Day 1 / Arrival
→ The first day we meet in Inglesias in the afternoon, from 3 pm. There is no walking on the first day. Iglesias is easy to reach independently. The most convenient airport is Cagliari. From the airport you can reach Iglesias easily by direct train (about 1 hour, approximate cost 3€).
Day 2 / First Stage: 21 km | Elevation gain +750 mt
→ From Iglesias to Nebida: leaving the town via the medieval castle, the trail climbs through wild hills, passing an old mining crater and the village of Monteponi. The day ends at the sea at sunset in Nebida. Overnight stay in Nebida.
Day 3 / Second Stage: 9 km | Elevation gain +350 mt
→ From Nebida to Masua: The trail follows the coast through Mediterranean scrub and cliffs. Arrival at Masua beach with views of the Pan di Zucchero, one of Sardinia’s most iconic sea stacks. After a swim, visit Porto Flavia. Return and overnight in Nebida.
Day 4 / Third Stage: 16 km | Elevation gain +650 m
→ From Masua to Buggerru: Walking along the coast to Cala Domestica for a beach break, then ascending to a plateau covered in fragrant Mediterranean scrub. Arrival in Buggerru, dinner with traditional Sardinian cuisine, and overnight stay.
Day 5 / Fourth Stage: 12 km | Elevation gain +450 m
→ From Buggerru to Portixeddu beach: The trail winds along the coast through pine forests and sandy dunes. Arrival at Portixeddu beach for the last swim and a seaside aperitif. Return and overnight in Buggerru.
Day 6 / Departure
On the last day, after breakfast, we organize an optional group transfer to Cagliari can be organised (city or airport, depending on everyone’s needs and flight times).
⋯ About the walking stages
We walk at a relaxed and non-competitive pace, but it’s important to be aware that we walk on real natural trails, with mixed terrain (earth and stone) and constant ups and downs. That said, it is not a race: we take regular breaks, both for guided visits and to swim in beautiful coves along the way. Daily luggage transport makes a big difference and helps us walk light.
⋯ Luggage transportation & organization
Daily luggage transport is included, so you can bring a small suitcase. During the day we walk only with a light daypack. The entire logistics are taken care of (accommodations, transfers, visits, guidance): once the trip starts, you don’t need to think about anything.
⋯ Trip price
→ Adapted for guided groups or as a self-guided trip. Program, services and price depend on the requests and the number of participants.
⋯ The travel package includes
→ 5 nights and 5 breakfasts in B&Bs and 3-star hotels, in double or triple rooms with single beds
→ Luggage transport between stages so you can walk light during the day
→ Guided visit to the Porto Flavia site
→ Guided tour of the village and Museum of Nebida
→ 6 days accompanied by a certified Environmental Hiking Guide experienced in the area
→ Meeting with former local miners to discover stories and traditions
→ Official credential of the Cammino di Santa Barbara
→ Transfers included in the program (excluding the optional transfer on the last day)
→ Basic medical insurance covering health expenses
→ Full assistance, logistics, and organization
→ Small group to ensure high-quality experience
→ Protection under the “Fondo di Garanzia Valore Sicuro” and “RC Valore Sicuro” policies provided by Europ Assistance.
*Not included: optional transfer to Cagliari (during the last day), travel to/from Iglesias or Cagliari, personal extras, meals which are often cheap in the region.
If you have any questions about the itinerary or how to book
