Jour 1: Dorgali
OLBIA / DORGALI (-/-/D)
When one thinks of Sardinia, images of summer, the sea, glamorous events, and the superyachts of the Costa Smeralda immediately come to mind. But if we step away from this cliché, we’ll discover so much more... We invite you to explore on horseback the region of Barbagia—an untamed and rugged land that represents the wild heart of Sardinia. Here, ancient customs and traditions, combined with a generous natural landscape, have shaped the lives of its people for millennia.
Barbagia lies between Nuoro and the newly formed province of Ogliastra. Its wild and unspoiled territory, along with its people and ancient charm, makes it an ideal destination for those wishing to immerse themselves in a timeless culture.
Our base will be the village of Dorgali, together with its coastal hamlet Cala Gonone, offering visitors a wealth of natural wonders—from the Gorropu Gorge to Codula Ilune, from dramatic sea cliffs beloved by climbers to the picturesque Oddoene Valley, rich in vineyards that produce the excellent DOC wine, Cannonau.
This area, known as Supramonte, is a vast limestone-dolomitic mountain complex formed by high plateaus, covering about 35,000 hectares (350 km²). It stretches across the territories of Oliena, Orgosolo, Urzulei, Baunei, and Dorgali—settlements nestled at the base of imposing limestone walls that define the region’s rugged boundaries.
Arrival at Olbia Airport (70 km). Transfer on request and check-in at Hotel Ghivine Albergo Diffuso Dorgali in a standard double room. Dinner and overnight stay.
Jour 2:
DORGALI (B/L/D)
Breakfast at the hotel. Departure by off-road vehicle to the Dorgali Equestrian Center, from where we will set off on horseback through the Oddoene Valley, heading towards the stunning Gorropu Canyon.
Picnic lunch with local specialties. After lunch, return to the Oddoene Valley. Horses will be settled, and we’ll return to the hotel by off-road vehicle.
Jour 3:
DORGALI (B/L/D)
Breakfast at the hotel and departure by off-road vehicle toward Oddoene Valley. The day’s ride takes us into the Sa Pruna forest area, surrounded by oak woods and Mediterranean scrub. Picnic lunch with typical regional products.
We will ride through mountainous terrain until we reach the Suttaterra Arch, a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Gulf of Orosei, where the Supramonte mountains plunge into the sea.
We continue on to Agriturismo Codula Fuili. After taking care of the horses, return to the hotel by off-road vehicle.
Jour 4:
DORGALI (B/L/D)
Breakfast at the hotel and departure by off-road vehicle to Agriturismo Codula Fuili. Today, we ride through limestone mountain trails until we reach the Codula di Ilune valley and arrive at the breathtaking beach of Cala Luna.
We return to Agriturismo Buchi Arta for a traditional shepherd’s lunch.
Afterward, transfer back to Codula Fuili, tend to the horses, and return to the hotel by off-road vehicle.
Jour 5:
DORGALI / OLBIA (B/L/-)
Breakfast at the hotel. Depart by off-road vehicle to Agriturismo Codula Fuili and set out on horseback through the hamlet of Cala Gonone, ascending toward Monte Ruiu. Picnic lunch with local delicacies.
In the afternoon, return to Codula Fuili, passing through the old 19th-century tunnel connecting Dorgali and Cala Gonone.
After settling the horses, return to the hotel by off-road vehicle.
Evening return flights are recommended, or you may extend your stay by the sea (ask us for a customized quote).
Note: The itinerary described above is indicative and subject to change due to weather conditions or other circumstances beyond our control. It is also possible to book a simple seaside stay with optional daily horseback excursions, short sunrise/sunset rides, or horseback riding lessons for adults and children aged 7 and up.
Note:
(B/L/D): B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner
Difficulty level: ° to °°°°°
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Difficulty: °°° (Intermediate)
Accommodation: Hotel stay
Equipment: English or trekking saddle
Horses: Sardinian, Anglo-Arab, and Arabian breeds – docile and well-trained for the proposed trails
Pace: Approx. 5 hours per day on horseback, including walk, trot, and canter. Riders must be able to control the horse in open terrain.
Terrain: Mediterranean scrub and coastal routes with sea views. The terrain is varied but not technically difficult.
What to Bring: Equestrian clothing (including waterproof gear), insect repellent, sunscreen
Trip Type: Equestrian holiday with hotel accommodation
Accommodation
4 nights at Albergo Diffuso Ghivine, a charming and welcoming hotel in the historic center of Dorgali, located 7 km from the seaside hamlet of Cala Gonone and 70 km from Olbia Airport.
This hotel is the result of the restoration of old stone houses, preserving traditional architecture and materials. The floors reflect ancient Sardinian patterns, and the interiors are decorated with beautiful local ceramics.
On the ground floor: reception, common areas, breakfast room, and a lovely courtyard with stone arches.
Upper floors: guest rooms and a panoramic terrace.
There are 13 rooms distributed among three restored historic Sardinian houses. Located in the artisan-rich town center, the hotel offers guests privacy, comfort, and personalized service.
Check-in from 3:00 PM, check-out by 11:00 AM, but guests are welcome to use common areas and hotel services throughout the day.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Departures:
Available year-round on request, with a minimum of 2 participants departing from Italy. (July and August excluded)
Group size: Min 2 – Max 8 participants
