Places in Gairo, Sardinia

Gairo is a small centre in the east side of Sardinia that is province of Ogliastra. This is the least populous province of Italy and one of the most beautiful and evocative area in Sardinia. A feature of this province is the variety of the coastal landscape, with vertical cliffs in the north and wide sandy beaches in the south.

It is characterized by overhanging rocks generating gorgeous beaches like Cala Mariolu, Cala Goloritzè or Cala Luna. Visiting those beaches is a must, although reachable only by boat from Cala Gonone.

Trekking lovers can follow a difficult but very beautiful path for about two hours. Unlike the north side, southern Ogliastra, offers easily accessible long white stretches of sandy beaches like the ones in Barisardo, Arbatax and Santa Maria Navarrese, popular seaside destinations.

The territory of Ogliastra, almost exclusively mountainous, offers more than only sea and sun. Travelling on twisted road like SS 125 or 198, you'll discover that the inland, largely covered by woods, hides numerous natural beauties.

For instance, make a trip to the mount of Perda 'e Liana, a 120 metres tall rock monolith, or to the canyon of San Giorgio famous among international climbers and excursionists. Sport activities will allow you to discover the rich natural environment of this area.

It is possible to practise trekking, free-climbing, paragliding, mountain biking, horse riding, canoeing and more. Travellers will be able to find lots of sporting guides and professional instructors who can offer logistic assistance both to beginners and well trained people.

A great way to discover the area is on board of the Trenino Verde (Small Green Train), a WWF initiative running through and connecting many Sardinian areas, wriggling between bridges, old railway stations and 'cantoniera' houses.

The Trenino Verde runs between June and September and the line serving the Ogliastra territory is the Mandas-Arbatax running along 159 km. It crosses the heart of Ogliastra and through tunnels, bridges and remote villages it will show you the wilderness and the greenery of the surroundings through most beautiful and evocative landscapes.

It will take you into locations otherwise difficult to reach and where the human touch seems light and distant. Among the beauties of the area some interesting pre-historic evidences are scattered along with about 200 Neolithic monuments like Menhir and Domus de Janas.