
DURATION
6 nights
LOCATION
Italy
ANNUAL LEAVE
5 days off work
SEASON
Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct
GROUP SIZE
Up to 12 people
MEETING POINT
Cagliari Airport
ACCOMMODATION
Classic
Mountain hut · Wild camping
DIFFICULTY
Tough
No previous climbing or abseiling experience is needed, but you must be fit and prepared for exposed hikes on difficult mountainous terrain
Test your limits with thrilling climbs, scrambles and abseils as you traverse vertical sea cliffs
Hike across impenetrable forests, teetering rock arches and narrow chasms on this wild and adventurous route
Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Cala Sisine and Cala Golotizè, and cruise along Sardinia's dreamy coastline
Immerse yourself in the wilderness and camp under the stars, by beaches, caves or abandoned shepherds’ huts
Day 1
Welcome to Sardinia!
Touch down in Cagliari Airport and transfer to Sardinia's eastern coast. Your home for the night is a secluded mountain hut on the Golgo plateau, tucked into the Mediterranean scrub and surrounded by wild mountains. Settle in and meet your mountain guide for a trip briefing and equipment check. Time permitting, you may be able to stretch your legs with a short hike around the grounds of the hut, visiting a typical sheepfold and an ancient Sardinian megalith, built by the Nuragic civilisation thousands of years ago. This evening you'll feast on mouthwatering Sardinian specialities, before getting some rest ahead of your epic adventure.
Day 2
Into the wild: Pedra Longa to Ovile Ginnirco
Hiking
6hrs · 8km · 870m up · 180m down
Fuel up on breakfast and take a short off-road transfer to Pedra Longa, named after the imposing rocky spire emerging from the sea and the official start point of the Selvaggio Blu ('Wild Blue') trek. From here, you'll leave civilisation and fully immerse yourself in some of the wildest and most impenetrable landscapes Italy has to offer. Set off along a relatively easy panoramic trail and get the first glimpse of the glittering sea. Continue up the steep rocky ledge of Punta Giradili, one of Sardinia’s finest sea cliffs. From the top, the views over the Arbatax Gulf and the peaks of the Gennargentu hinterland will take your breath away. Set camp in the forest, and tuck into a bountiful Sardinian dinner.
Day 3
Vertical heights: Monte Ginnirico to Portu Pedrosu Cove
Hiking
7hrs · 8.5km · 280m up · 1020m down
Grab breakfast and pack your picnic lunch before handing your overnight gear to the local team, who will transport it to the next camping spot for you. Test your stamina as you hike on the edge of a 200m cliff, high above the sea. Following the Capo Monte Santo crag, descend to the Bacu Tenadili canal before climbing up again on the other side with the use of some ropes, assisted by your expert guide (grade III climbing). Power through a steep, zig-zagging trail – eyes peeled for the rare Eleonora's Falcon – until you reach the beautiful limestone fjord of Portu Pedrosu. Jump into the water for a refreshing swim and enjoy another magical camping spot.
Day 4
To Arcu Su Tasaru via Goloritzè Beach
Hiking
10hrs · 11km · 1200m up · 780m down
Lace up your boots and get ready for your most challenging day. Cross the Porto Cuau cove and hike towards Punta Salinas, overlooking the Orosei Gulf – fringed by limestone cliffs. Follow ancient shepherds' paths, traversing a canyon of ancient holm oaks and junipers. A steep descent will lead you to the famous crystal clear waters of Cala Goloritzè, a white stretch of beach overlooked by the iconic Punta Caroddi, a 128m rock needle which has become a mecca for international climbers. Tackle a 30m section of via ferrata with spectacular views, continuing on until you reach Su Tasaru, where you'll camp for the night.
Day 5
An adventurous route to Bacu Padente
Hiking
8hrs · 7km · 770m up · 970m down
Rise early and get ready to tackle the next exhilarating stage of the Selvaggio Blu. You'll cross some difficult terrain, which includes a section of abseiling (23m). It is, however, incredibly beautiful as you'll explore some of the hidden gems of Sardinia's East coast and experience its primordial beauty. You'll be tackling exposed passages with dizzying views over the emerald sea, glimpsing unforgettable views of limestone cliffs and white beaches. Tonight, you'll set camp near Su Padente Canyon and celebrate your efforts with a fantastic meal in the wilderness.
Day 6
Trek, climb and abseil to Cala Sisine
Hiking
6hrs · 8km · 620m up · 860m down
The final push! Today's final stage will involve another demanding section as you traverse unforgettable wild scenery and mountaineering passages. You'll tackle four roped descents (from 25m to 45m), as well as a 40-metre section on a via ferrata. Your efforts will be repaid once you reach your final destination and the end point of the trek: the dreamy cove of Cala Sisine. Set by the rocky promontory of Punta Plummare, the beach is a top contender for one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. Enjoy a celebratory dip in the crystal clear water, then toast your epic achievement with a farewell dinner at a nearby campsite, where you'll spend the night.
Day 7
Aaaand relax...
Sailing
1.5hrs
Congratulations, you've completed the hardest trek in Italy and had one of the most unforgettable adventures of your lifetime. Spend the morning relaxing with a well-deserved lie in, or soothe your muscles with a reinvigorating swim at Cala Sisine. Explore the beach or just hang out before you embark on a 90-minute boat ride along the coast you just traversed by foot, passing pristine coves and secluded beaches. Your transfer will depart from Santa Maria Navarrese mid-afternoon, and will take you back to the airport in time for your evening flight home. Arrivederci!
Included
Guides
Certified, English-speaking mountain guide, plus a local team for logistical support
Accommodation
1 night in a mountain hut, 5 nights wild camping
Meals
Munch on tasty meals throughout
Transfers
Airport transfers and everthing in between
Porterage
Jeeps to transport your overnight luggage and camping gear during the trek
Equipment
All your climbing, via ferrata and abseiling kit, plus camping gear (excluding sleeping bag)
Permits
Local park fees
Not Included
Flights to and from the meeting point
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips for your guides
Visas where required
Day 1
Mountain hut · Multi share
Day 2 – Day 6
Wild camping · Twin tent
Day 7
What is the food like?
Without doubt, meals will be a highlight of the adventure. The trek is fully sported by a fantastic local team who take care of all the food preparation, along with kit and luggage porterage. In the morning you'll enjoy a good breakfast which usually includes a choice of tea, coffee, milk, homemade cakes, bread, butter and local jams. You'll also be provided with a packed lunch before setting off for the hike, usually featuring freshly baked bread with a choice of cured meats and cheese, vegetables and fruit. Each evening at the camp, you are in for a treat with a range of delicious Sardinian specialities, including appetisers (cheese, cured meat and roasted vegetables), a main course (meat, pasta) and side dishes – the perfect way to refuel after a challenging day of activity. In addition, you'll be able to enjoy complimentary wine, liqueurs and sweets.
Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for - please just request this on your passenger info form.
What is the accommodation like?
Altopiano del Golgo
You'll spend your first night at the welcoming and friendly mountain hut Rifugio Cooperative Goloritzé, the official base of the Selvaggio Blu trek. You'll be sleeping in small bungalows (usually accommodating 2-4 people) with shared bathrooms and showers. In the evening, you can relax and socialise with your fellow adventurers in the small bar and restaurant, which serves typical local specialities and delicious local wines.
Wild camping
For five nights of the trip you will sleep under the stars in twin-share tents in the Sardinian wilderness, far away from any sign of civilisation. All your camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, mattress, overnight luggage, cooking kit, water, etc.) will be transported by a local team using a 4x4, so you won't need to carry this with you on the trek, however you will be expected to pitch your own tent. Your local guide can assist where needed.
Upgrades
For solo travellers wanting their own personal space, you can request your own private tent for five nights (subject to availability). The solo upgrade is not available at the mountain hut due to limited capacity. See Optional Extras for prices.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Cagliari Airport
13:30 on Day 1
Ends
Cagliari Airport
18:00 on Day 7
Transfers
A group airport transfer is included on Day 1 which will depart Cagliari Airport around 13:30. It will take just over two hours to reach the mountain hut located in the Altopiano del Golgo, halfway between Cagliari and Olbia. Your return transfer will arrive at Cagliari Airport at around 18:00 on Day 7, so you'll need to book flights departing from 20:00 onwards.
It will be difficult to use public transport to reach the start point of the trek independently if you chose to travel at different times or from/to Olbia, so we strongly recommend taking advantage of the set group transfers from/to Cagliari.
Private transfers can also be arranged on request – see Optional Extras for prices.
Travel options
There are regular direct flights to Cagliari from airports in London and Europe. Alternatively, you can also search for indirect flights via Rome or Milan – it’s often easier to search for two single flights (with connection in Milan or Rome) rather than a return.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included?
- Twin-share tent
- Inflatable mattress
- All your abseiling, climbing and via ferrata equipment (helmet, harness, via ferrata kit and ropes)
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Soft overnight duffel bag or rucksack (preferrably waterproof or with rain cover) put your tent, sleeping bag, and spare clothes in to. When filled with all your items, this bag should weigh no more than 15kg
- Daypack (30 litres)
- Waterproof liner for kitbag or rucksack/drybags
CLOTHES
- Waterproof jacket
- Fleece jacket or warm jumper
- Buff or neckscarf
- Trekking shoes with a hard sole
- 5 or 6 t-shirts and changes of underwear
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts (bear in mind these may get damaged on the rocky passages)
- Trekking socks
- Swimwear and light towel
- Hat, glasses, and sun-cream
- Something to sleep in
- Sandals
SLEEPING
- Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner
- Sleeping bag (all season)
- Travel pillow or pillowcase
OTHER
- Knife, fork, and spoon plus a plate and a cup for meals
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Ear plugs
- Insect repellent (strongly recommended!)
- Suncream
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
- Toilet kit (toilet paper, biodegradable bags to carry paper out to dispose of)
- Quick-dry towel
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Headtorch or torch with spare batteries
- Reusable water bottle x2 (1.5-2 litre)
- Biodegradable wet-wipes
- Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
Optional Private Tent Upgrade (5 nights)
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Tent Upgrade (5 nights)
…
Private Arrival Transfer Cagliari airport - Rifugio Cooperativa Goloritzè
Payable Before Departure
Private Arrival Transfer Cagliari airport - Rifugio Cooperativa Goloritzè
…
Private Departure Transfer S. Maria Navarrese - Cagliari airport
Payable Before Departure
Private Departure Transfer S. Maria Navarrese - Cagliari airport
…
Very challenging, would be impossible save for incredible professionalism of Ivan the guide, a true adventure and definitely a great trip
Our guide Ivan was a mountain goat in a past life and led us on a great adventure along the spectacular coastline, accompanied by great food and wine at beautiful campsites each evening. We swam in the Med every day and learnt loads about the history, culture, geography and flora and fauna of the Selvaggio Blu. The hike is strenuous and the via ferrata sections challenging - have a decent level of fitness in agility and endurance to make the most of the trip. It was a real treat to see the coastal trail from the boat back on the final day.
Trekking the Selvaggio Blu is one of the best trips I’ve done. The terrain is tough (rocky untrodden paths with plenty of loose scree), and as a non climber the via ferratas and abseiling tested my nerve but I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge. Ivan our guide was fantastic - kept us safe, shared much local knowledge and the perfect host at meal times. The support team were super efficient in coordinating fresh food each day along with the transport of over night bags. As with the other MBA trips I have done, the group dynamics were great - like-minded people of various ages and nationalities, up for the challenge with plenty of fun and laughter. We were able to swim in the sea every day - water a little chilly as were the evenings (travelled in May) so do pack a warm fleece. The boat trip on the last day wasn’t rushed so you get to take a good look at the coastline you’ve just trekked. I so enjoyed this remote part of Sardinia - it really does take you away from it all. Another fantastic trip from Much Better Adventures.
We've crunched the numbers to work out the total carbon footprint of this trip, and plant enough trees to suck 2x as much back out the atmosphere.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 105kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal for 2023 to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. For every person booked with us since 2016 we’re planting enough trees to suck at least 2x more carbon out the atmosphere than is emitted by their trips. All native trees, as part of amazing projects that are re-foresting degraded land, tackling the biodiversity crisis and supporting local communities at the same time. We go further than that too, also funding re-wilding projects worldwide to help protect important keystone species from extinction. See the reforestation and re-wilding schemes we support. See our carbon action plan.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
The Selvaggio Blu (translated as 'Wild Blue' in English) is an extreme adventure, often referred to as the most challenging trek in Italy. It's more than just trekking - it is a mountaineering and wilderness experience. The itinerary was developed in 1988 by two Italian guides, and it follows the coastline over the mountains and sea cliffs of Sardinia's Baunei area. The trail crosses thick forests, hidden caves and deep canyons, making it necessary to abseil, climb and walk along exposed paths. There are now many variations of the original trail, but on this trip you'll follow the original trekking route – including its technical sections – as it offers the best panoramas and the most rewarding experience.
A good level of fitness is required, as you'll be out for up to 10 hours a day in a difficult environment – moving over challenging terrain and ascending considerable heights. You must be confident walking on steep and very uneven terrain, scrambling and descending on scree. Having a head for heights and good balance is absolutely crucial, as you'll be traversing many narrow paths and exposed sections next to vertical drops. The route and terrain, therefore, requires great stamina, so previous trekking experience on difficult mountain terrain is preferable (although not essential). You'll be fully supported by a team of local guides who will take care of the equipment porterage for you, so you'll be hiking only with your daily backpack. You'll sleep five nights in the forest, away from any trace of civilisation or comfort, so an adventurous spirit and adaptability are crucial for the enjoyment of this unique experience.
You don’t have to know how to abseil. Your professional mountain guide will take care of all rope manoeuvres. You just have to relax and carefully follow their instructions. You also don’t have to be a trained climber, but you should have good balancing skills and be confident climbing easy sections of rock. The only essential requirement is that you are not overly afraid of heights, as along the trek you will often have to scramble on scree and leaning rock walls. More difficult climbing passages are equipped with fixed ropes and will require you to wear a harness and via ferrata kit (which will be provided by your host).
Your local guide knows the itinerary and routes very well, having led Selvaggio Blu for years, and holds a professional mountain hiking certificate as well as First Aid certifications.
Yes, you are free to come with your own your abseiling, climbing and via ferrata kit if you prefer (helmet, harness etc). Please contact your host to let him know, or if you have any specific questions.
Climbing shoes are not required and all climbing sections on this trek can be tackled with standard trekking shoes.
No. You'll need to have a larger duffel bag suitable for all your belongings which will be transported for you to each camp spot, and then a small daysack to carry personal items during each day of hiking.
You can leave any excess luggage with your host at the mountain hut for the duration of the adventure and this will be delivered to you on the final day of the trip before you head to the airport.
Unfortunately, there are very few fresh water sources on the route, and they may be dry at any time. Therefore, the local team will be carrying drinking water containers which will be refilled each day at the wild camp spots. Please bring at least two 1.5-2L refillable bottles with you.
You would have to complete the daily hike to get to the final destination and camping spot, but if you wish to take a rest day and prefer to skip a stage of the trek, you can! Each day, a transfer will reach the group in the evening to deliver luggage and dinner, and another transfer in scheduled in the morning to bring breakfast and pick up your luggage again. After breakfast, you may decide jump on the 4x4 and get a lift to the mountain hut where you can take a day off at leisure. In the evening, you can then jump in the same vehicle and rejoin the group, continuing the trek the following day.
Yes, there is usually mobile reception on at least 70% of the route, with the exception of the camping areas on the second and third nights of the itinerary.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Due to safety reasons and challenging nature of the trek, the trip cannot run during the hottest summer months of July and August. From May to June and September to October the daytime temperatures in Sardinia range from 22–30°C and cool off to 13–18°C at night, making this the ideal season for hiking. Unseasonable weather is possible at any time of year, but your guide will be assessing the weather conditions daily and will plan the walking times, routes and schedules accordingly. Rain is uncommon, so you're sure to get a lot of sun.
If it’s just a case of drizzling rain you can wear a rain jacket and walk, occasionally you may have to wait for it to stop by seeking shelter in one of the many caves along the route. When camping, the local team can help by setting up a large tarpauline above the dining table, if needed.
In the case that the weather is seriously bad, your guide may decide to abandon the trail for safety reasons. In that case you'll reach your daily destination, but instead of camping you'll be transferred back to the mountain hut/base used on Day 1. You'll have dinner at the hut and sleep under a canopy or in a small bungalow. The following day you'll take transfer and, if possible, you'll start hiking from the point where the trek was interrupted.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
We recommend checking out the country specific information here and also talking to a travel nurse.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're in good company. Our adventures are typically made up of a mix of solo travellers and small groups of two or three friends who simply love adventure, pushing themselves and meeting awesome like-minded people. See here for more info about our lovely bunch of Much Better Adventurers.
Want to book a private trip? Just tap ‘Private Group’ in the dates and prices tab.
Your trip is led by carefully curated local hosts and expert guides. See here for more info about the guides we work with.
Pay In Installments
You can choose to pay for this trip in as many installments as you like, with no interest or fees.
Full Financial Protection
Your money is safe. Every booking is fully financially protected.