Porto Paglia: Tonnare Trail Guided Hiking Experience – Sardinia, Italy

EXPERIENCE:

A fun and exciting route that develops along the South West coast of Sardinia! From Portoscuso to Portopaglia, between wild and breathtaking scenery. A coastal stretch full of naturalistic, historical and geological charm. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will depart from Tonnara di Portoscuso, walking for the first part on volcanic soil with rich vegetation around it and among the remains of military structures. Here the tuna fishing activity is still alive, and we arrive at the tonnara of the ancient village of Portopaglia. Long sandy stretches that once formed large dunes, spectacular coves and Spanish towers embellish the area and bring you back to the island’s past. For flower enthusiasts, in addition to the classic Mediterranean scrub, you can meet some particular species such as the mortar mushroom and the Carpobrotus commonly called Fico degli Ottentotti. There is so much to discover, a whole experience to live!

Length of the tour: 11,3 km
Difference in height: 300 m
Difficulty: Hiking (E)

Itinerary: the route, to be covered at a slow pace of about 6/7 hours of walking with short breaks if necessary, involves the passage on coastal areas sometimes exposed therefore not indicated on rainy days but in any case not relevant even for those suffering from vertigo. The difference in height develops throughout the hike with a continuous rise/fall that becomes a bit tiring because of the sandy soil. On the second part, the path becomes a bit more wild with passages on sand and low Mediterranean vegetation interrupted by some oasis of juniper, with stops in some coves that in the right periods allows you to take a swim and stop for a break with packed lunch. The itinerary is equipped with some emergency exit points that only in case of real need allow you to interrupt the experience in advance

Points of interest:
– The Rocky Layers of volcanic origin, Trachyte, Ignimbrite, Sandstone, Fossil Dunes
– The coastal Mediterranean scrub, mastic, cistus, helichrysum, juniper, orchid specimens, but also alien plants such as the Fig of the Ottentotti and the Mushroom of Malta
– The coves of Guroneddu, Porto Paglia and the fishing village, the trap of Porto Paglia
– The Gulf of Lion
– Tuna fishing culture, remnants of World War II 

There will be a small final aperitif with typical Sardinian products such as sausage, cheese and a glass of wine that may vary depending on the season

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Experience a unique challenging path with panoramic view of wild nature and sea
Admire from above the ancient village of Portopaglia and the tuna fisheries
Discover the unique vegetation characteristic of the Mediterranean scrubland

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