Trekking to the Nuragic Village of Tiscali from Cala Gonone with Aperitif
Step into ancient Sardinia on a guided mountain trail leading to one of the island's most secretive archaeological wonders.
This guided trek departing from Cala Gonone takes you deep into the Supramonte massif to reach Tiscali Nuragic village, a remarkable Iron Age settlement concealed inside a collapsed cave on the slopes of Monte Tiscali. The route covers 7 kilometres with 450 metres of elevation gain, offering a genuine encounter with Sardinia's ancient past and its untamed landscape.
The trail winds through limestone gorges, maquis scrubland and rocky plateaus typical of the Barbagia interior. Walkers pass through scenery shaped over millennia by wind, water and the footsteps of shepherds, and the path itself carries the quiet atmosphere of a place rarely touched by mass tourism.
At the archaeological site, the remains of circular stone dwellings and defensive walls sit within the cavernous hollow of a mountain. The setting is as dramatic as the history it contains, offering a perspective on Nuragic civilisation that no museum can replicate.
The experience concludes with a traditional Sardinian aperitif featuring a platter of cold cuts and local cheeses, carasau bread, seasonal vegetables, fruit, a traditional dessert, water and wine — a fitting reward after a morning on the trail.
Tour Highlights
Explore the hidden Nuragic village of Tiscali, concealed within a collapsed mountain cave and dating back to the Iron Age.
Trek through the Supramonte limestone landscape, one of Sardinia's most ecologically significant and visually striking mountain areas.
Enjoy panoramic views across the Gulf of Orosei and the wild interior of the Barbagia region during the ascent.
Receive expert commentary on the history, archaeology and ecology of the Tiscali site from a qualified local guide.
Conclude the trek with a traditional Sardinian aperitif including local meats, cheeses, carasau bread, fruit, dessert, water and wine.
Depart directly from Cala Gonone, one of Sardinia's most celebrated coastal villages on the Gulf of Orosei.
Itinerary
1
Departure from Cala Gonone
The group assembles at the meeting point in Cala Gonone before transferring to the trailhead at the edge of the Supramonte. The guide provides a briefing on the route, terrain and safety guidelines.
2
Ascent through the Supramonte
The trek begins along a well-marked path through limestone formations, Mediterranean maquis and open rocky terrain. The ascent gains elevation steadily, with rest stops to take in the surrounding landscape.
3
Arrival at Tiscali Village
After approximately 90 minutes of walking, the trail enters the collapsed doline that shelters the Nuragic village. The guide leads the group through the ruins, explaining the site's history and significance within Sardinian archaeology.
4
Exploration of the Archaeological Site
Walkers have free time to observe the circular stone dwellings, defensive structures and natural cave ceiling that once sheltered this Iron Age community. The atmosphere inside the hollow is unlike any other site on the island.
5
Return Trek and Traditional Aperitif
The group descends via the same trail back toward the valley. Upon completion of the hike, a traditional Sardinian aperitif is served, featuring cold cuts, local cheeses, carasau bread, seasonal produce, dessert, water and wine.
What Is Included
Included
Professional local trekking guide
Guided visit to Tiscali Nuragic village
Traditional Sardinian aperitif with cold cuts, cheeses, carasau bread, vegetables, fruit, dessert, water and wine
Route briefing and safety information
Not Included
Transport to and from Cala Gonone
Personal travel insurance
Personal hiking equipment
Gratuities for the guide
Important Information
This trek involves 7 km of walking with 450 m of elevation gain over approximately 6 hours. Despite its Easy classification, physical effort is described as demanding. Participants should be in good physical condition and wear appropriate footwear.
Duration
6 hours total, including approximately 1 hour 30 minutes of active trekking each way and time at the archaeological site.
What to Bring
Sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes, sun protection, a hat, sufficient water, a light snack, and weather-appropriate clothing for mountain conditions.
Cancellation
Please refer to the booking platform's cancellation policy. The operator may cancel in the event of adverse weather conditions affecting safety on the trail.
Accessibility
This tour is not suitable for participants with limited mobility. The terrain is rocky and uneven, with significant elevation change.
Age Range
Recommended for participants aged 10 and above who are comfortable with sustained physical activity on mountain trails.
Reserve Your Place on This Trek
Spaces on this guided trek are limited to preserve the experience and protect the archaeological site. Secure your place today and discover one of Sardinia's most remarkable hidden corners.
Although classified as Easy (Hiking level E), the operator describes the physical effort as demanding. The route covers 7 km with 450 m of elevation gain, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
What type of footwear is required?▼
Sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes or boots with ankle support are strongly recommended. The terrain is rocky and uneven throughout the route.
What does the aperitif include?▼
The tasting includes a platter of cold cuts and local cheeses, carasau bread and traditional bread, seasonal vegetables, fruit, a traditional Sardinian dessert, water and wine.
What is the Nuragic village of Tiscali?▼
Tiscali is an Iron Age settlement built inside a large collapsed cave on the summit of Monte Tiscali in the Supramonte of Oliena. It is one of the best-preserved Nuragic sites in Sardinia and dates to the first millennium BC.
Is this trek suitable for children?▼
The trek is generally suitable for children aged 10 and above who are accustomed to walking on uneven terrain. Parents should assess their child's fitness and comfort with mountain hiking before booking.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of the tour?▼
The operator reserves the right to cancel the tour in the event of weather conditions that could compromise safety on the trail. In such cases, participants will be informed and alternative arrangements discussed according to the booking policy.
This tour operates in the Supramonte mountain area of central-eastern Sardinia, Italy, departing from Cala Gonone, a coastal village in the municipality of Dorgali in the Nuoro province. The destination, Tiscali, is located within the territory of Oliena, inside the Supramonte di Oliena, a protected natural and archaeological area within the broader Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu National Park. The region is characterised by dramatic karst limestone formations, Mediterranean macchia, and a landscape largely unchanged since antiquity. Cala Gonone serves as the primary access point for visitors arriving via the SS125 Orientale Sarda road or by sea ferry.
