A guide to a multi-stage ramble around southwest Sardinia

Hike through millennia of mining history and help support modern-day communities on the Portoscuso to Masua leg of this varied, multi-stage ramble around southwest Sardinia

Santa Barbara is the patron saint of miners, so it’s apt that the newest trail through southwest Sardinia bears her name. Not only because this is a historic mining region, but because it’s hoped the Cammino will help nurture the area by reviving interest in its past industry – which dates back to ancient times – and bringing new opportunities to the communities living here today.

The full trail stretches some 500km (310 miles), looping along dirt paths, mule tracks and abandoned railways, equal parts historical, cultural and scenic. It’s split into 30 stages, which range from 5km (3 miles) to 29km (18 miles), linking ancient nuraghe (Sardinia’s curious neolithic stone towers), Roman remains, mountains, turquoise seas, tunnels blasted into the rock and comely villages. The trail is open year-round, and founding association Fondazione

Cammino Minerario di Santa Barbara (CMSB) actively encourages walkers to come in quieter months. Spring and autumn are prime times: cheaper, quieter, warm but not scorching.

Walk in stages

For those without the time or inclination to tackle the entire trail, we suggest combining stages 29, 30, 1 and 2 to make a fine four-day hike, linking the tuna-fishing port of Portoscuso with the limestone cliffs of Masua via Iglesias. Starting by the sea, you’ll encounter volcanic cliffs, mining heritage and one of the island’s largest Nuragic settlements. Then follow old railway tracks to Iglesias – though it’s worth taking the longer alternative route to delve into the tunnels of the San Giovanni mine. From Iglesias, the Cammino leads to the town of Nebida, via chapels and churches dedicated to Santa Barbara. Finally, continue to Masua, where shafts are hewn into the rock and an idyllic beach beckons.

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