The Path of the 100 Towers: The Allure of Sardinia

Travel advices

If you’re passionate about history, culture, and adventure, the “Path of the 100 Towers” in Sulcis-Iglesiente is an extraordinary experience you can’t miss.

This captivating itinerary, the longest path in Italy and one of the most enchanting in Europe, will lead you through one of the most incredible routes in Sardinia, offering a unique overview of the island’s millennia-old history.

We’ll show you why you should consider it as your next destination; keep reading!

The Charm of Sulcis-Iglesiente: Where History Meets Natural Beauty

Sulcis-Iglesiente, located in the southwestern part of Sardinia, is a region steeped in history and natural beauty. This land is renowned for its enchanting coastlines, golden beaches, and a rich cultural tradition that is reflected in every corner of the territory. The “Path of the 100 Towers” in Sulcis-Iglesiente is an extraordinary way to immerse yourself in this region, exploring its millennia-old history and admiring its natural beauties.

The “Path of the 100 Towers” is a unique hiking trail that you can undertake on foot, by bike, on horseback, or even by canoe or boat. With 8 routes, 70 stages, and 1284 km, you can circumnavigate the entire island of Sardinia, following the coastline and even crossing the Sulcis-Iglesiente region.

The path takes its name from the numerous coastal towers that dot the shore. These observation towers, built from the High Middle Ages to the mid-nineteenth century, served the purpose of defending the coast from pirate incursions. Each tower has its own history and unique charm, and by walking along this route, you’ll have the opportunity to visit and explore them all.

The Most Beautiful Points Along the Path

The Path of the 100 Towers follows the entire Sardinian coastline, so it never strays far from the sea, except for a maximum of 2 km. It takes you to discover white beaches, cliffs overlooking the sea, sandy dunes, forests, villages, and cities.

You can start the Path of the 100 Towers from any city, and you can choose from the 8 routes that cover the entire island, knowing that completing the entire path typically takes from 45 to 60 days of walking. Alternatively, you can also walk individual sections.

The trail, in fact, is divided into two segments: the eastern and the western. This latter route crosses Sulcis-Iglesiente, exploring locations such as Portoscuso, within the UNESCO-protected geomineral park, Carloforte, Sant’Antioco, and Porto Pino.

Organization: Plan your trip well in advance, and contact the association that manages the path to receive the “Walker’s Passport,” a certificate where you collect stamps from all the stages you complete. It’s not recommended to walk this itinerary during the hottest months, and it’s a good idea to have the Official Guide of the Path, where you can find information on all accommodation facilities, dining and supply points, as well as cultural and natural points of interest.
Preparation: The path is designed to be completed in one go or in stages, and it’s also possible to organize it over multiple periods and resume the path at a later time. To complete the entire path, good physical training is necessary.
Appropriate clothing: Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and hiking shoes to safely navigate the route.
Water and supplies: Bring enough water and supplies for the entire duration of the hike.
Expert guide: Consider the option of joining a guided tour to get detailed information on the history and geography of the region. The path signage is still under construction.
Camera: Don’t forget your camera to capture unforgettable moments along the way.
The “Path of the 100 Towers” offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you with extraordinary memories.

Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on this epic adventure in the heart of Sulcis-Iglesiente, and if you’d like to discover another fascinating path that will take you on a journey through the mining history of Sulcis-Iglesiente, also read “Exploring the Mining Path of Santa Barbara, a Memory of Sulcis-Iglesiente Miners.