San Giorgio Canyon and Monte Tisiddu: Hiking between Cliffs and Tacchi in Ulassai

The village of Ulassai, nestled among imposing limestone walls, guards two of the most spectacular geological monuments in the entire Ogliastra: the San Giorgio Canyon and Monte Tisiddu. This itinerary combines the grandeur of vertical rock with breathtaking views stretching from the wild hinterland to the blue sea of the east coast.

The Legend of San Giorgio and Faith in the Tacchi

The San Giorgio Canyon is a deep and extremely narrow gorge that literally splits the mountain. According to popular devotion and ancient local legends, the canyon was born through the intercession of the Saint Bishop of Suelli in the 10th century. It is said that the Saint, finding his way blocked by the imposing limestone cliff, knelt in prayer: the mountain split instantly, opening a safe passage for pilgrims and shepherds.

Monte Tisiddu, which overlooks the town, is one of the most iconic limestone heels (tacchi). Its flat summit hosts extraordinary endemic flora and offers a unique viewpoint over the village, which from up here looks like a small nativity scene resting on the rock.

The Loop Trail: Climbing the Panoramic Tacco

The hike follows a well-marked loop trail that starts directly from the town center of Ulassai, near the San Giorgio Canyon. The path climbs steeply but steadily in the shade of centuries-old holm oaks and Mediterranean scrub shrubs, where the scent of rosemary and helichrysum accompanies every step.

After passing the narrowest passages between the limestone walls of the canyon, you climb up towards the summit of Monte Tisiddu. The path winds on a karstic plateau rich in spires, sinkholes, and ridges. From the peak, the view embraces the entire Pardu valley, the heels of Jerzu, and, on clear days, the sea horizon of Tortolì and Barisardo.

Technical Details of the Itinerary

• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
• Walking time: About 3 hours total
• Positive elevation gain: 350 meters
• Trail length: 7.2 km
• Tips: Wear sturdy hiking boots; passages on limestone rocks can be slippery when wet. Bring at least 1.5 liters of water.

Culurgiones at the Refuge: Refuel in the Heart of the Rock

After the walk on Tisiddu, the culinary stop is centered on the symbol of Ogliastra: culurgiones. Hand-prepared with the typical wheat-ear closure ("spighitta"), these fresh pasta pockets contain a velvety filling of potatoes, Sardinian pecorino cheese, and fresh mint. Cooked and served hot with a drizzle of olive oil or a light tomato sauce, they represent the perfect combination of carbohydrates and energy to recover from the effort.

Practical Information and Parking