Tacchi Di Ulassai

Sardinia isn't just sun and sea, so if you have the time you should explore the various hiking trails on offer and discover places like the Tacchi di Ulassai (peaks of Ulassai). They’re located in the heart of Ogliastra along one of the highways leading from Barumini to Arbatax. As you pull up in your car, it’ll seem like you’re arriving in a surreal and magical landscape. You’ll see a towering red limestone peak known as Tisiddu in Sardinian. At the base of Tisiddu, you’ll find Is Lianas and Su Marmuri, the two most famous caves on the island.

It’s a great area to go hiking or just take a casual stroll out in the countryside.

The area around Ulassai has lots of options for day-trips. There are even trails on which you can go trekking for several days while passing through the city and the greater region of Ogliastra.

Don't miss the small peak of Tisiddu. It's an authentic natural gem that offers amazing views and plenty of breathtaking trails through the karstic landscape. There's also an interesting textile workshop near the trailhead. Further on, you can visit the Su Marmuri caves and the Sa Tappara gorge (excellent rock climbing, by the way). If you're feeling up to it, you can also try the "En Mannu Taccu," a spectacular ring route that has a constantly changing landscape and incredible panoramas.

Ulassai, along with Nuoro and Cagliari, is one of the Tacco dell'Ogliastra rocks. The charming village is set between the foot of the large Ulassai (a rock formation named for the shape) to the north and the imposing Mt. Tisiddu to the south. It’s most famous for its old textile factories and, on nice days, you can see the Gennargentu range in the distance.