Child petting a sheep in Olbia, showcasing the authentic wool supply chain experience.
Hands sorting raw wool fibers during the Olbia wool supply chain tour.
Close-up of hands inspecting wool fibers in the Olbia wool supply chain tour.
Hands expertly handling raw black wool, showcasing the start of Olbia's traditional wool supply chain process.
Freshly baked scones with icing, a delightful treat available during the Olbia wool supply chain tour.
Listing ID : 57521

Activity

Duration4 Hours
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtOlbia, Sardinia
LanguagesEnglish, Italian
Craft Experience · Olbia · Sardinia

Olbia: Discover the Wool Supply Chain

From fleece to fabric — a living journey through Sardinian textile tradition


This Sardinian wool experience near Olbia takes you through every stage of a centuries-old craft, from raw fleece freshly shorn from local sheep to finished fabric woven on handmade looms. Guided by an expert craftswoman, you will engage directly with each step of the process in an authentic rural setting surrounded by vineyards and free-roaming animals.

The experience draws its character from the landscape itself — a working farm a short distance from Olbia where Sardinian sheep, including the rare black sheep of Arbus, graze in open pastures. This endangered native breed is a living testament to the island's pastoral heritage, and meeting them up close adds a memorable dimension to the visit.

Ancient Sardinian techniques, passed down through generations, form the backbone of every activity. Participants do not simply observe — they wash, card, spin, and weave, gaining a firsthand understanding of the skill and patience that traditional textile production demands.

The setting reinforces the sustainable nature of the experience. The wool comes from sheep raised on site, the looms are built by hand using traditional methods, and the entire process respects both the animals and the environment. It is a fitting choice for travellers who value craft, heritage, and responsible tourism.

Experience Highlights

Wash and prepare raw wool using traditional methods under expert guidance.

Card wool fibres by hand with authentic tools that reflect generations of Sardinian craft knowledge.

Spin wool into thread by hand, experiencing the rhythm and technique of a true craftswoman.

Weave on traditional looms built by hand according to ancient Sardinian construction techniques.

Discover the rare black sheep of Arbus, an endangered native Sardinian breed, in their natural pasture setting.

Take home authentic knowledge of a sustainable, nature-rooted supply chain from sheep to finished fabric.

How the Experience Unfolds

1
Welcome and Farm Introduction

Arrive at the farm near Olbia and meet your expert craftswoman guide. You will be introduced to the animals, including the native Sardinian sheep and the black sheep of Arbus, before the hands-on activities begin.

2
Wool Washing

Learn how raw wool is cleaned and prepared for processing. This foundational step reveals how much care goes into making the fibre ready for the next stages of the supply chain.

3
Carding

Using traditional tools, you will untangle and align the wool fibres by hand. The craftswoman explains the importance of this stage in producing an even, workable material.

4
Hand Spinning

Transform carded wool into thread using hand-spinning techniques. This step connects participants directly to one of the oldest textile skills practised in Sardinia.

5
Weaving on Traditional Looms

Work at looms built by hand according to ancient Sardinian methods and bring the final fabric to life. This concluding activity ties together everything learned during the session.

What Is Included

Included

  • Expert craftswoman guide throughout the session
  • All materials for washing, carding, spinning, and weaving
  • Use of traditional handmade looms
  • Guided introduction to the farm animals including the black sheep of Arbus
  • Hands-on participation in all stages of the wool supply chain

Not Included

  • Transport to and from the farm
  • Food and beverages
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Any items of personal nature

Important Information

This is an active, hands-on experience. Participants should be prepared to stand and work at various stations throughout the session. Comfortable clothing suitable for a farm environment is strongly recommended.
Duration
Approximately 4 hours including all hands-on activities and animal introduction.
Meeting Point
The farm is located near Olbia, Sardinia. Precise meeting point details will be provided upon booking confirmation.
What to Bring
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and clothes you do not mind getting dirty. Sunscreen and a light jacket are advisable depending on the season.
Cancellation
Please review the cancellation policy at the time of booking. Standard terms apply as communicated during the reservation process.
Accessibility
The experience takes place on a working farm with uneven terrain. It may not be fully accessible for guests with limited mobility. Contact the organiser in advance for specific requirements.
Age Range
Suitable for adults and older children. The activity is rated easy and requires no prior experience in textile crafts.

Reserve Your Place

Spaces on this experience are limited to preserve the quality of the hands-on session. Secure your spot to explore one of Sardinia's most distinctive craft traditions in an authentic farm setting near Olbia.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any prior experience in weaving or spinning to join this experience?
No prior experience is required. The expert craftswoman guides participants through every step, making the activity accessible to complete beginners.
Is this experience suitable for children?
The activity is rated easy and is generally suitable for older children who can engage with hands-on craft tasks. It is advisable to contact the organiser directly for guidance on minimum age suitability.
Where exactly does the experience take place?
The experience takes place on a working farm near Olbia in northern Sardinia. The exact address and directions are provided after booking confirmation.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day?
As much of the activity takes place in a craft workshop setting, light rain is unlikely to affect the session. For extreme weather conditions, the organiser will communicate any changes directly to participants.
Can I take home anything I make during the experience?
Please confirm with the organiser at the time of booking what participants are able to keep from their weaving or spinning session, as this may vary depending on the group and timing.
What is the black sheep of Arbus and why is it significant?
The black sheep of Arbus is an endangered native Sardinian breed with a distinctive dark fleece. Its preservation is closely linked to traditional textile practices on the island, making it a culturally and ecologically significant animal.
Wool Experience SardiniaCraft Tour OlbiaTraditional WeavingSustainable TourismFarm ExperienceSardinian TraditionsHand SpinningTextile CraftBlack Sheep of ArbusCultural ExperienceArtisan WorkshopEco Tourism Sardinia
Last updated: June 2025 | Product ID: olbia-wool-supply-chain

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

4 hours

Languages

English - Speaking Guide

Italian - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

Select Date

Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

End Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

Reviews

Share this experience

Check Availability

Select Participants

  • Adults (15-99)
    Age 15 - 99
    0
  • Children (3-14)
    Age 3 - 14
    0

Select Participants

Select Date

Select Time
logoBlack

Extraordinary experiences,
beautifully gifted

dreamimg
Nearby Icon