This cammino comes with three free nights in charming campsites and B&Bs.
The Santa Barbara mining trail in Sardinia weaves through dunes, oak forests, and cliffs above the Mediterranean. It also follows in the footsteps of miners, unlocking part of the history of this stunning Italian island.
To help young visitors get better acquainted with Sardinia beyond its beaches, the Cammino Minerario di Santa Barbara Foundation (CMSB) offers free accommodation to under-35s who want to hike the 500-kilometre trail. If you want to stretch your legs and rest your head for free in sunny Sardinia, you’ll need to act fast.
CMSB’s ‘Leg’s go in Cammino’ initiative runs until 15 June. After pausing over the peak summer months, it starts again between 15 September and 31 December 2024. Divided into 30 stages with an average length of 16 kilometres, the hike would take around a month to complete.
The Camino is named after the patron saint of miners, who the men would pray to before descending into the dark pits. This gritty history is juxtaposed against the lush skylines of the island. Starting in the small city of Iglesias in the southwest, walkers follow gravel paths, mule trails, and abandoned railway tracks that nature is now busy reclaiming.
Each of the casino’s 30 stages takes you past the ruins of mines and deserted villages, backdropped by beautiful coastal stretches. Not all these remnants are from the Industrial Revolution; some cart tracks date back to Roman times.
The Santa Barbara mining trail offers more than just historical ruins. Among its highlights are the breathtaking San Giovanni caves, which provide a spectacular underground adventure. Walkers will also encounter the majestic Piscina Irgas waterfall, a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy nature’s beauty.
Another notable feature of the trail is the Marganai oak forests. These lush woodlands offer a serene and picturesque environment, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. The diverse landscapes of the trail ensure that hikers experience a wide range of Sardinia’s natural beauty.
This trail is an opportunity for young hikers to explore Sardinia uniquely, beyond its famous beaches. The CMSB Foundation offers free accommodation to encourage more under-35s to discover the island’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
The Santa Barbara mining trail perfectly blends history, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the historical ruins, the scenic landscapes, or the challenge of a long-distance hike, this trail has something to offer everyone.