Italy's Sardinia Island Offers Free Stays To Young Hikers Exploring This Ancient Trail

The Italian island of Sardinia is running a tempting promotion to entice young explorers to its region. Three free nights of accommodation are up for grabs for hikers under 35 willing to explore the ancient Santa Barbara mining trail. This initiative, known as “Leg’s Go in Cammino,” aims to help young visitors discover the island beyond its famous beaches. With this promotion, the Cammino Minerario di Santa Barbara Foundation (CMSB) is giving hikers the opportunity to stay at one of 24 affiliated inns, campsites, or B&Bs. Equally important, each stay includes breakfast, providing a comfortable and budget-friendly way to experience the trail.

What Is The Santa Barbara Trail?

The Santa Barbara mining trail is a 500-kilometer must-see route that many people are unaware of. It weaves through the southwestern part of Sardinia. Miners who labored in the island’s abundant mineral riches left imprints on this historic route. Far from tourist hotspots, it offers ancient and ecological attractions. Starting in the small city of Iglesias, hikers set out on an exploration that covers 30 stages, each averaging 16 kilometers.

As trekkers meander along clifftops, through oak forests, and over dunes, they encounter remnants of the island’s mining past, including ruins of abandoned mines and villages. Some sites date back to the Industrial Revolution, while others are from Roman times. Highlights along the route include the San Giovanni caves, the Piscina Irgas waterfall, and the Marganai oak forests.

How You Can Sleep For Free In Sardinia

To take advantage of this offer, participants must obtain a “walker’s passport” from the CMSB website. This passport costs €5 and grants access to three one-night vouchers. Hikers can use these when making reservations along the trail. The vouchers must be used on consecutive nights, making it easier for travelers to plan their journey.

In addition, the CMSB website provides detailed information on how to apply for a walker’s passport and book accommodations. Plus, trail maps and other resources are also available to help hikers plan their routes. As the summer season approaches, the “Leg’s go in Cammino” initiative will pause on June 15 and resume from September 15 to December 31, 2024.