Best mountain peaks around Àrthana/Arzana, located within the Gennargentu Mountains of Sardinia, provide access to some of the island's notable mountain peaks and natural attractions. The area is characterized by its unique geological features and diverse natural landscapes. This region offers a variety of terrain, from high summits to distinctive rock formations.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
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Great view. Beautiful area.
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A uniquely shaped, towering tower, a natural monument, symbol of Ogliastra, and a key morphological feature of central-eastern Sardinia. Perhaps once a gathering place for the Nuragic peoples, it later became, in popular legend, the entrance to the underworld. It protrudes from the earth like a giant finger reaching toward the sky and, especially in this wild area, is a landmark visible from afar for hikers. Perda 'e Liana is an extraordinary rock formation declared a natural monument in 1993. The peculiar "mountain," known in Sardinian as Taccu or Tonneri, rises in the Gairo Sant'Elena area: it is the greatest witness to the erosive effects of weathering that have been affecting the vast limestone cover of Ogliastra on the border with Barbagia di Seulo for several million years. Erosion gradually isolated the "tower," forming its base. It is the highest (1293 m) of the numerous Ogliastra limestone mountains, the northern foothills of the Tonneri plateau, about two kilometers away, to which it is connected by the s'Arcu 'e su Pirastu Trottu pass. Perhaps in ancient times, they formed a single mountain ridge. Source and further information: https://www.sardegnaturismo.it/de/entdecken/perda-e-liana
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It may not be obvious that Sardinia's highest mountain is crowned by an imposing summit cross, but it seems completely natural to the mountain hiker. A base made of natural stone from the surrounding area forms the lower level of this small sacred monument. A round column bears the Latin inscription "Ave Crux spes unica" (loosely translated "Hail [holy] cross, [you] our only hope") and continues further up - almost seamlessly - into the longitudinal beam of the cross. Like many other summit crosses, it is comparatively simple in its design and has no corpus, but is certainly dignified.
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It may not be obvious that Sardinia's highest mountain is crowned by an imposing summit cross, but it seems completely natural to the mountain hiker. A base made of natural stone from the surrounding area forms the lower level of this small sacred monument. A round column bears the Latin inscription "Ave Crux spes unica" (loosely translated "Hail [Holy] Cross, [our] only hope") and continues further up - almost seamlessly - into the longitudinal beam of the cross. Like many other summit crosses, it is comparatively simple in its design and has no corpus, but is certainly dignified.
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With an all-mountain mountain bike you can do almost everything on the bike, both uphill and downhill
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Treasure chest with everything possible and a summit book.
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Imagine standing on the highest point in Sardinia, Punta La Marmora, and your gaze sweeps over the entire island. On a clear day you can even see the silhouettes of Corsica on the horizon. You can put this experience into practice by hiking to the summit of this 1,834 meter high elevation. Ideally, start your tour in the parking area at Rifugio Sa Crista or Rifugio S’Arena near Desulo. The route is not short at 15.5 kilometers, but it rewards you with an incredible variety of landscapes. Within a walking time of three and a half to four and a half hours, you will cross picturesque forests, pass flowering meadows and hike across impressive boulder and craggy terrain. Among other things, it goes over the summits of Bruncu Spina and Punta Paulinu. As you climb from Bruncu Spina towards Punta La Marmora, a huge summit cross might lead you astray. But don't be fooled, because the true summit is only reached when you reach the small rock pyramid that marks the top of La Marmora. The peak itself was named after the general and scientist Alberto Ferrero della Marmora, who described Sardinia in detail in his works. His love for the island will become clear to you at the summit when you enjoy the breathtaking view. You should be well prepared for this hike. This means: Sturdy hiking boots, enough water and sun protection should be in your luggage. If you need refreshment in between, you can stop off in the towns of Desulo or Fonni. The months from June to September are ideal for the tour. But Punta La Marmora is actually a year-round hiking destination for everyone who is looking for something special. Ready for this adventure? Then lace up your hiking boots and experience Sardinia at its best!
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Climbing to Punta La Marmora from Bruncu Spina you first reach the pre-summit, which is misleading with its enormous summit cross. To reach the highest peak in Sardinia, you need to continue further south until you reach a small rock pyramid. This marks La Marmora's peak share of 1,833.
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For unparalleled panoramic views, head to Summit of Punta La Marmora, Sardinia's highest peak, where you can see across the entire island to the Sardinian and Tyrrhenian Seas, and even Corsica on clear days. Mount Bruncu Spina, the second-highest, also provides expansive views of the surrounding mountainous terrain. Additionally, Monte Idolo offers a great view of the eastern coast, including Arbatax and Tortolì.
Yes, the region is home to Perda e Liana, a uniquely shaped, towering rock formation that is a key morphological feature of central-eastern Sardinia and a protected natural area. Its distinctive silhouette makes it a landmark visible from afar.
The months from June to September are ideal for hiking to peaks like Punta La Marmora. However, many of the mountain peaks in the Gennargentu Mountains can be year-round hiking destinations, depending on the specific trail and weather conditions.
The rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems of the Gennargentu National Park, which includes the mountains around Àrthana/Arzana, are home to various native species. Hikers may encounter diverse wildlife, including golden eagles and mouflons. The Pirincanes Gorge area is also a habitat for the Sardinian trout and the Sardinian newt.
Absolutely. The ascent to Punta La Marmora is considered a moderate to difficult challenge, rewarding hikers with an incredible variety of landscapes. Similarly, Pizzu Margiani Pubusa is categorized as a challenging summit hike.
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including challenging tours like 'From Tortolì to Ulassai at the foot of Gennargentu — ring tour'. There are also mountain biking trails, such as 'Sicaderba – Grotta Idòlo loop from Arzana', and running trails like 'The Pirincanes gorge — Ring tour in the Gennargentu Mountains'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for Road Cycling Routes, MTB Trails, and Running Trails around Àrthana/Arzana.
Yes, Mount Bruncu Spina uniquely hosts Sardinia's only ski resort, making it a destination for winter sports enthusiasts during the colder months.
While primarily known for natural beauty, Punta La Marmora is named after Alberto Ferrero La Marmora, an Italian geographer who extensively studied Sardinia in the 19th century. Additionally, on Monte Idolo, you'll find a statue of San Michele Arcangelo, a small sacred monument.
For a hike to Punta La Marmora, you should be well prepared. This means sturdy hiking boots, enough water, and sun protection should be in your luggage. The route is long and traverses varied terrain.
If you need refreshment after your hike, you can stop off in the towns of Desulo or Fonni, which are located near the trails leading to the higher peaks.
The Pirincanes Gorge, while not a peak, is a significant natural wonder within the Gennargentu massif. It's characterized by impressive pinkish granite rocks, crystal-clear pools known as 'giants' cauldrons,' and the Rio 'e Forru waterfalls, with the highest drop reaching 15 meters. Trekking through the gorge offers an authentic nature experience.


See even more amazing summits around Àrthana/Arzana with these guides: