- Discover the most beautiful walking trails in Sardinia with a small group of like-minded adventurers
- Hike (and maybe paddle) in Gorropu Gorge, the deepest natural gorge in Europe
- Explore the large caves at Cala Luna, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean
- Visit the mysterious Nuragic village of Tiscali
- Enjoy Italian hospitality and excellent food at the family-run Hotel Il Querceto
Walking in Sardinia
8 Days
Excluding Flights From
8 Days
from
Walking & Trekking
Activity Level
Moderate
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you
Comfort Level
Classic
Discover one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean
Sardinia is a natural marvel with crystalline waters, golden beaches and undulating limestone ridges. Based in the Dorgali area, we explore the forest-framed coastline of the east and rugged mountains in the west, walking through valleys, gorges, peaks and turquoise bays. The island is also a place of great historical interest. We explore some of it with a visit to monolithic monuments built by the Nuragic people, one of the most interesting prehistoric civilisations in the Mediterranean.
Highlights
Key Information
- Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Hotel Il Querceto)
- Four days walking, one day sightseeing
- Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
- Countries visited: Italy
What's Included
- All breakfasts, five picnic lunches, one wine tasting and five dinners
- All accommodation
- All transport and listed activities
- Tour leader throughout
What's Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Single accommodation (available on request)
- Visas or vaccinations
- Local taxes (approx. €10)
4 Days of Walking & Trekking
Pace:
Approximately five to six hours per day
Terrain:
Low altitude; uneven paths with some steep ascents
Altitude maximum: 2,985ft (910m); average: 1,315ft (400m)
Day 2
13 km / 8.1 miles
Day 3
15 km / 9.3 miles
Day 6
12 km / 7.5 miles
Day 7
10 km / 6.2 miles
Itinerary
Dorgali Dorgali
Fly to Olbia; transfer to Dorgali
Fly to Olbia and transfer to the Hotel Il Quercieto in Dorgali (1hr 30min).
Fly to Olbia; transfer to Dorgali
Our week begins at Hotel Il Quercieto in Dorgali. In the evening, our guide will hold a welcome meeting to discuss the week ahead, give advice on the local area and answer any questions.
Take an old path around Monte Tului with beautiful views of the Gulf of Orosei
We start with an orientation walk, talking an old path that winds around Monte Tului (3,005ft/916m) and offers some of the best views of the Gulf of Orosei to one side, and the mountainous interior around Dorgali on the other. The walk should take around five hours.
Walk along the Gorropu Gorge, the deepest natural canyon in Italy; free time to paddle on the Flumineddu River
Enjoy sweeping views on a drive above the Flumineddu Valley, before arriving at Gorropu Gorge, also known as the Grand Canyon of Europe. Its narrow, vertical walls reach 1,640ft (500m), making it the deepest natural gorge in Europe. Appreciate all its glory on our walk, which takes around six hours. There is a chance to paddle in the river, if conditions allow. This evening, there is the opportunity to enjoy dinner in a restaurant in Dorgali centre – payable locally.
Explore the Nuragic village of Serra Orrios; relax on an idyllic sandy beach; local wine tasting
Today we learn more about the Nuragic people, considered the most accomplished yet mysterious civilisation in the Mediterranean. We start with a drive to the Giants Tomb, a megalithic grave site from the Bronze Age, before visiting the Serra Orrios archaeological complex, home to a fascinating collection of stone hut ruins.
We then have time for a quick coffee stop before driving to Cala Orsala. This is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, surrounded by rocks, pinewoods and lush Mediterranean scrub. We have lunch on the beach (weather permitting). Next up is a visit to the Grotta Ispinigoli, a cave home to the longest stalactite-stalagmite column in Europe. We finish the day in style, heading to a winery (cantina) for a tasting and short talk about the local wines.
Free day; explore the Dorgali archaeological sites, take a self-guided walk or hit the beach
Today is free to explore the archaeological sites of the Dorgali region, take an optional self-guided walk or simply relax by the beach and enjoy the leisurely Sardinian lifestyle. Horse riding can also be arranged (the price and all details to be agreed locally with the hotel). Alternatively, take an optional boat trip to the Bue Marino Grotto (weather permitting).
Walk around the prehistoric Tiscali village, built inside a cave; visit the Su Gologone springs
Today we visit the mysterious Nuragic village of Tiscali – not much is known about its origins, nor the people who lived there. It seems to have been populated before the Nuragic era but archaeologists put its main period of activity between the second and first centuries BCE. The dwellings are virtually invisible until you are at the vast cavity in which they are built. This has led some to postulate that people returned here to hide from the Romans.
We also visit Su Gologone, described as a natural masterpiece, where karst has been sculpted by rushing water as it exits the gorge. The water is tinged green or blue, depending on the angle of the sun, and an astonishing 130 gallons (500 litres) of water per second comes crashing out of the chasm into this mini oasis.
Explore caves and cliffs on a walk from Cala Luna beach; free afternoon
We start the day with a boat trip to Cala Luna, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Here there will be time to explore the large caves and, as this is a popular spot for rock climbing, we may get to see some enthusiasts put their skills to the test. The walk back to Cala Gonone taks us through a vast forest and along deep gulleys, with occasional views of the coast. At the end of the walk at Cala Gonone we will have time for a very welcome drink and the opportunity for a swim before we return to Dorgali.
To Olbia; fly to London
We take a transfer to Olbia airport, then fly to London.
End Dorgali
Our Sardinia trip comes to an end after breakfast. Say a fond farewell to Hotel Il Quercieto, before beginning your return journey home.
Hotel Il Querceto, a family-run hotel near Dorgali
Il Querceto is our host for this walking adventure in Sardinia. It’s a relatively modest hotel but run by a local family who have created a home-from-home feel and serve delicious, hearty meals.
Upgrade throughout your stay to a deluxe room with a terrace and a view – speak to your sales representative for more details.
The hotel itself is adorned with locally crafted wooden furniture and contemporary regional artwork while facilities include a bar, restaurant and terrace. We’ve found our groups tend to gather on the terrace with a drink post-walk and pre-dinner, an ideal time to reminisce about the day’s adventures.
Additionally, the hotel, which is run on biomass, using wood which would otherwise be burned, is within walking distance of Dorgali, a small town specialising in crafts and ceramics, where there are shops, restaurants and bars. It’s also a 10 to 15-minute bus ride to the beach, where you’ll also find a row of restaurants and cafes.
Trip Experts
Simone Sarnataro
Customer Operations Executive
Reviews
Add your own reviewBeautiful Trip
To experience a part of Italy which feels still relatively untouched is truly special. We were often walking without seeing anyone else!
The Scenery is beautiful and these walks offer a variety of coastal, forest and mountain views.
It was a moderate walk, you need to be in good fitness and the summer months can be hot but there was nothing difficult.
The hotel has changed since a year or so ago, so some reviews on here are old. This hotel is a beautiful setting with some great views from the terrace and very spacious. Just a 10 minute walk to the town’s shops cafes and Gelato! The hotel is family run and they are very welcoming and are involved in every area of the hotel. The food was fresh and varied and potions are generous – you wont go hungry!
Most Inspirational Moment
The last day walk was spectacular. The coastal views, the blue of the sea! The beach on that walk is beautiful and the boat journey is lovely. The Stalactite caves visited are also mesmerising, unexpected and very impressive!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our Leader Michele was very experienced, knew the area well and gave us guidance on the slightly more technical areas. He also helped us plan our free day with information on buses and nearby towns as well as optional extra walks. He was very happy, warm and engaging with the group.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The walking distances are for the official path trails, you might do a town walk, a cafe or shop detour which can add a little more on so if checking if you are capable for the distances, allow for a little extra. Take swimming stuff, the beach on the last day is beautiful and there is also a nearby beach for your free day. The town is small and the supermarket is small, dont expect to be able to buy much take what you need! Take atleast 1 pole and good boots are needed.
Perfect week
The trip was a perfect balance of hiking and culture . The hotel is good and run by a lovely family who are actively involved and who want to ensure you have a good experience.
Most Inspirational Moment
The final day hiking was particularly good and included a boat ride. It was a really pretty coastal hike, much of it is through forest. There was a good mix of terrain. The beach was beautiful and so interesting with the caves. We had time for a refreshing sea swim.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Michele is up there with the best guides I have met. He was engaging, informative and funny. He was helpful when it came to advice on our free time and at advising us on the planned days. He spent time getting to know us all and made sure we were all coping and comfortable. You can tell how much he loves his job.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The hotel and other restaurants we visited catered well for anyone with dietary requirements, and the food was always delicious. I recommend going to the Shepherds dinner which is an optional extra. It was one of the highlights. I think the moderate/level 3 rating for the trip is right. I hike and run a lot so had no difficulty but the hills will stretch some people not used to the terrain or heat. However the reward for any effort needed is the beautiful scenery.
Great leader,great group.
I think everyone really enjoyed exploring Sardinia.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Tony did a wonderful job.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you like hiking and excellent Italian food, try Sardinia.
An all round fantastic experience.
An excellent located hotel for all trips within the itinerary, offering very good vegetarian options, and a complimentary glass of wine with all evening meals. The walks were challenging however they were graded correctly. The views were fantastic, and our leader was attentive to all individual needs of the group.
Most Inspirational Moment
Too many inspiring moments to mention. However the walk to Tiscali was amazing. And the fresh seasonal fruit (lemon, cherries and loquots) grown by the hotel, which was offered for breakfast was brilliant. The hotel owners were open, honest and great listeners.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Group leader (Tony Sardo) was attentive to all individuals needs, and changed the itinerary positively to suit weather conditions.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Good quality walking boots/shoes essential.
Fantastic
Varied walks some quite technical but as long as you are fit they are great. Also cultural activities so a good mix.
Most Inspirational Moment
Bouldering
Thoughts on Group Leader
Tony was brilliant. Great fun caring super knowledge of area and historical sites visited.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Lots of up hill rocky climbing so be prepared to be challenged!
A fantastic adventure!
This was my first Exodus trip in many years – and what a trip. So much more than I expected – walking, swimming, history, culture, food, wine and super company. We packed a great deal into seven days – some high intensity days of climbing/walking up and down the mountains – but also rest days at the beach with pristine clear water and visiting historical monuments of which there are many. Sardinia has a rich history and a proud culture – I came away with a deeper understanding of the people and the country – and a greater appreciation of Sardinian landscape, beaches, wine and food. This trip is such good value – almost everything is included such as flights, accommodation, most meals including packed lunches for our walking days. We had two excellent meals out in Dorgali where our family run hotel was based; these were self funded but great value – mountains of food! The hotel was run by three sisters who worked their socks off to give us a good time. It’s an authentic three star family run affair – I loved that so many local families came to dinner with their children and filled the restaurant with chatter and laughter.
Most Inspirational Moment
I stood at the top of the mountain after a long climb of around 2,000 feet and looked across the amazing landscape of valleys, gorges, rivers - green and vibrant. I never thought I would make it to the top - but I did and it was a deeply rewarding experience which will stay with me for a very long time. It has given me the confidence to book more trips - with Exodus of course!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Michele was an inspirational and motivation group leader. He made each and everyone of us feel welcome and included. He was keen to understand what we as individuals wanted from the trip and built the itinerary around that and the weather - which can be variable in Sardinia. He shared his extensive knowledge of the island and the culture so we got a real insight into the place and its people. He had clearly built a good relationship with local people over the years and was keen that we, as travellers, appreciated their environment. Most of all he gave me the confidence to tackle challenging walks and it was a rewarding experience. Go Michele!!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Three pieces of advice: Ensure you are fit enough to undertake some challenging walks. The trip is rated 3 moderate but it felt more like a 4 at times particularly on some tricky screen and mountain paths. The coming down is as difficult as the ascent so you need to train in advance - as advised by the website. Take the proper equipment with you including walking poles - you might think you can manage without but they make a huge difference on difficult paths.Bring wet weather gear - the weather can change dramatically and suddenly. Finally go with the flow - this is an authentic experience in a family run hotel - just enjoy it and be grateful the island isn't full of Premier Inns and other chain hotels
Walking in Sardinia
This was an excellent holiday. It is set in a good location with testing but not too strenuous walks. There is considerable variety to the walks – from walking on cliffs, hills etc to walking in a gorge. There are often stunning sea views. The location is also set in an area of significant archeological importance and it was interesting to hear about the history of the area.
Most Inspirational Moment
Witnessing the way the group leader was able to help members of the group to improve their confidence on walking on tricky terrain. Excellent wine tasting - the best I have experienced on an Exodus holiday (and there have been a few)
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent. Knowledgeable about the area. Attentive to all members of the group - didn't seem to have particular favourites. Ensured that we were able to carry out our walking safely. Was able to re-organise the order of the planned activities to cater for inclement weather which would have made one of the walks impossible on the originally scheduled day. Enthusiastic about selling the virtues of walking and cycling holidays.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Well worth a go. This is an excellent holiday in a less well known location. There is a good variety to the walks and generally nice scenery.
Beautiful Sardinia
This was one of the best trips I’ve done. I fell in love with Sardinia. It’s a beautiful, unspoilt island with lovely coastal beaches and soaring mountains.. April is the perfect month to go. The weather was good and the country was lush and green. Some lovely flowers along our walks. The walks are varied and require a reasonable level of fitness. I enjoyed the visit to the archeological sites too. There were 8 people in our group and we all got on really well from day one. We had lots of fun and laughs. The local people, like our bus driver, were amazing. So hospitable and friendly. The trip was really well organised, exactly what I would expect from Exodus.
Most Inspirational Moment
I loved our walk in Canyon Gorropu. We visited the cave called Grotto Ispinigoli which was amazing, although I only viewed it from above. On the final day we took a boat from Cala Gonone to some caves and then climbed up on to the cliff top. This was a lovely walk with beautiful views down to the sea. One day we went to Orosei where we had lunch on the beach. There was nobody else about and it felt like paradise. Lots of inspiring moments.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We couldn't have had a better group leader. Michele was the best!! He was very knowledgeable about the country and shared this with us. He was fun and joined in with the group. I struggled a couple of times on the walks because I am not good with heights but he was encouraging and supportive, he helped me to overcome my fears, as did other members of the group. He made the trip enjoyable and interesting. BGLE!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Definitely do this trip! Go to see Giovanni at the gelataria in Dorgali. His ice cream is the best! April is a great month to visit Sardinia.
Brilliant week
Sardinia – what a beautiful Island! Golden sandy beaches, wooded valleys and gorges and warm blue sea. Hotel was simple but spotlessly clean and there was always plenty of good food to be had. Dorgali Town was sleepy while we were there but we were early in the season. Very easy to catch a local bus to the coast on your day off and some great local restaurants when you eat away from the hotel.
Most Inspirational Moment
Clambering into the gorge over rocks and boulders. Great fun and makes you realise how small you truly are. There was also a fantastic cameraderie within the group and so much fun and laughter along the way. This makes a holiday great as much as the fantastic scenery.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Michele was brilliant. Always smiling, thoughtful and one of the best leaders I have encountered, always going the extra mile. Shared his time with everyone and became an integral part of the group with his good humour and laughter. By his hard work we could just relax, laugh and enjoy ourselves. Anyone who can talk a bunch of hikers into a spontaneous Sardinian folk dancing lesson whilst waiting for the bus to arrive must be good! Thank you for making it such a special week.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Bring walking poles as they are very helpful over the rough terrain and don't make the mistake of ordering 2 sandwiches for lunch because they are huge!!!
A great trip
This was my first trip with Exodus. It was really great, the mix of walking and visiting local sites of interest was just perfect for me . The guide Michele was excellent, knowledgeable and incredibly hardworking. The group were very friendly and I can honestly say that I have never laughed so much ! Walks were varied and interesting. Loved it !
Most Inspirational Moment
The beach visits
Thoughts on Group Leader
Brilliant
Advice for Potential Travellers
Some of the walks involve a little easy scrambling
Start
Finish
Availability
Land Only Trip Price
Optional Single Supplement
Saturday Saturday
06 Sep 2025 06 Sep 2025
Saturday Saturday
13 Sep 2025 13 Sep 2025
Availability Sold Out
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699
Optional Single Supplement
+£ 350
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
13 Sep 2025 13 Sep 2025
Saturday Saturday
20 Sep 2025 20 Sep 2025
Availability Sold Out
Land Only Trip Price £ 1599 £ 1599
Optional Single Supplement
+£ 350
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
20 Sep 2025 20 Sep 2025
Saturday Saturday
27 Sep 2025 27 Sep 2025
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 1 space left!
Land Only Trip Price £ 1599 £ 1599
Optional Single Supplement +£ 350
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 1 space left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
27 Sep 2025 27 Sep 2025
Saturday Saturday
04 Oct 2025 04 Oct 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Limited) Only 3 spaces left!
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699
Optional Single Supplement
+£ 350
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 3 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
11 Apr 2026 11 Apr 2026
Saturday Saturday
18 Apr 2026 18 Apr 2026
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Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
18 Apr 2026 18 Apr 2026
Saturday Saturday
25 Apr 2026 25 Apr 2026
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Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
25 Apr 2026 25 Apr 2026
Saturday Saturday
02 May 2026 02 May 2026
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Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699 Book with £ 424 deposit Book with £ 424 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
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This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
02 May 2026 02 May 2026
Saturday Saturday
09 May 2026 09 May 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699 Book with £ 424 deposit Book with £ 424 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
09 May 2026 09 May 2026
Saturday Saturday
16 May 2026 16 May 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699 Book with £ 424 deposit Book with £ 424 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
16 May 2026 16 May 2026
Saturday Saturday
23 May 2026 23 May 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699 Book with £ 424 deposit Book with £ 424 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
06 Jun 2026 06 Jun 2026
Saturday Saturday
13 Jun 2026 13 Jun 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699 Book with £ 424 deposit Book with £ 424 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
13 Jun 2026 13 Jun 2026
Saturday Saturday
20 Jun 2026 20 Jun 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699 Book with £ 424 deposit Book with £ 424 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
05 Sep 2026 05 Sep 2026
Saturday Saturday
12 Sep 2026 12 Sep 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699 Book with £ 424 deposit Book with £ 424 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
12 Sep 2026 12 Sep 2026
Saturday Saturday
19 Sep 2026 19 Sep 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699 Book with £ 424 deposit Book with £ 424 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
19 Sep 2026 19 Sep 2026
Saturday Saturday
26 Sep 2026 26 Sep 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699 Book with £ 424 deposit Book with £ 424 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
26 Sep 2026 26 Sep 2026
Saturday Saturday
03 Oct 2026 03 Oct 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 1699 £ 1699 Book with £ 424 deposit Book with £ 424 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 385
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip Notes
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Walking in Sardinia
8 Days
Excluding Flights From
8 Days
from