The Santa Barbara Way (Cammino di Santa Barbara)
A spiritual and natural journey into the heart of Sulcis. The Santa Barbara Trail is more than just a path; it is a journey through time, nature, and the culture of southwestern Sardinia. Named after Santa Barbara, the patron saint of miners, this trail pays tribute to those who worked in the mines, living in harmony with the land and its hidden treasures. The route, which forms an enchanting loop starting and ending in Iglesias, traverses places rich in history and spirituality. Here, ancient forests, lush woodlands, sand dunes, and the wild Sulcis Iglesiente coast create the backdrop for an immersive experience that blends faith, nature, and tradition.
The trail offers a unique opportunity for trekking enthusiasts and nature sports lovers, with stages showcasing not only the stunning landscapes but also the cultural wealth of the region. For those planning a holiday in Sulcis, the Santa Barbara Trail passes through Carbonia, with stages 25 and 26. Walking even a portion of the Santa Barbara Trail is an invitation to delve into the authentic heart of Sardinia.
Stage 25: Sant’Antioco – Carbonia: from the sea to the city along a trail steeped in history
Stage 25 of the Santa Barbara Trail connects the island of Sant’Antioco to Carbonia, largely following the former track of the Ferrovie Meridionali Sarde, now repurposed as a convenient pedestrian and cycling path. This route, once vital for transporting coal from the Grande Miniera di Serbariu to the port of Sant’Antioco, now offers a journey blending history and nature, ideal for those seeking a slow and contemplative adventure.
As one of the longest stretches of the trail, it unfolds without technical challenges, making it accessible to walkers of all levels. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views ranging from the Sulcis countryside to the coast, immersing yourself in a land that tells tales of labor and resilience. This walk bridges the region’s mining past with its present, creating a journey through memory and unique landscapes.
A journey into the heart of Sardinia
Whether you choose to walk a single stage or the entire itinerary, the Santa Barbara Trail offers an unforgettable experience, perfect for a holiday in Sulcis or a broader journey through Sardinia. Each step reveals hidden corners and places rich in tradition, making it an ideal choice for those who love outdoor activities and wish to combine physical effort with introspection.
This land, capable of surprising visitors in every season, is ready to reveal its most authentic soul. Walking in the Sulcis Iglesiente means embarking on an adventure that leaves a lasting impression, where every corner tells a story and invites you to pause and savor the tranquility of nature and the spirituality of the place.
The route
- Starting point: the journey begins along the city streets of Sant’Antioco.
- Crossing the SS 126: once out of the city, the trail crosses the SS 126 highway.
- Cycling Path: the route continues along the cycling path, leading to the crossing of a paved road near the Is Cordedda area, close to the roundabout on the SS 126.
- San Giovanni Suergiu: following the cycling path, you will cross Via Porto Botte, the urban continuation of the SS 195.
- Arrival in Carbonia: the stage concludes with an urban path through Carbonia.
- Length: 23.4 km
- Elevation Gain: 273 m ascent: 198 m descent
- Difficulty: moderate
- Duration: 7 hours and 30 minutes
Stage 26: Carbonia - Nuraxi Figus: a journey through archaeology, mines, and nature in the heart of Sulcis
Stage 26 of the Cammino di Santa Barbara offers an exciting trek that immerses you in the authentic essence of Sulcis Iglesiente. Connecting Carbonia to Nuraxi Figus, this trail traverses landscapes where the grandeur of nature meets the extraordinary historical and cultural richness of the region. Although this stage is more challenging and slightly longer than others, it rewards trekking enthusiasts with a truly unique experience.
An open-air archaeological park
This stage is a journey through time. Starting in Carbonia, renowned for its industrial archaeological heritage, the route leads through sites that reveal the millennia-old history of the land. From the imposing structures of the Grande Miniera di Serbariu, a symbol of 20th-century mining history, to the still-vivid memory of the Nuraxi Figus mine, each location tells a compelling story.
Every step along the way offers immersion in memory—not only of the industrial age but also of ancient history dating back over 5,000 years. The trail passes by remnants of classical and prehistoric archaeology, including nuraghi, villages, and other relics of the Nuragic civilization, making this stage a cultural adventure as well.
Nature and adventure combined
For those seeking outdoor activities in Sardinia, this stage provides the perfect blend of physical challenge and immersion in the wild. The path meanders through hills, plains, and trails, offering breathtaking views of the untamed Sulcis Iglesiente landscape. Walking from Carbonia to Nuraxi Figus allows you to explore a unique environment where Mediterranean vegetation intertwines with the history and traditions of this resilient land.
Active tourism and holidays in Sulcis
Stage 26 of the Cammino di Santa Barbara invites you to experience Sulcis authentically, blending active tourism with cultural exploration. If you’re planning a trip to Sulcis Iglesiente, including this stage in your itinerary will reveal lesser-known but extraordinarily captivating sites, far from the typical tourist trails.
This trek is not only a challenge for hikers but also an opportunity to connect with the slower, deeper rhythms of Sardinia—a land that never fails to inspire and amaze. From mines to nuraghi, from industrial history to prehistory, this stage encapsulates the allure of the Heart of Sulcis.
The route
- Depart Carbonia and head toward the Miniera di Serbariu, following an urban stretch.
- After crossing the mine, exit and carefully cross the SS 126 to access the dirt road leading to the Nuraghe Sirai (exercise caution during the crossing as the road experiences heavy and fast traffic).
- Upon reaching the Flumentepido treatment plant, check the flow of the Rio Flumentepido. If the river is in flood, take the alternate route through Cortoghiana, passing by Medau Desogus.
- Continue until you reach Cortoghiana, near the commercial furniture district, and cross the SS 126 at the traffic light.
- Next, pass partially through Cortoghiana, continuing toward Nuraxi Figus, where you'll also cross urban streets with local traffic.
Given the length of this stage, it is recommended to prepare adequately.
- Length: 22.5 km
- Elevation gain: +504 m; descent: -498 m
- Difficulty: challenging
- Duration: 8 hours
