Hiking Punta La Marmora: On the Roof of Sardinia
Guide to trekking Punta La Marmora from the Arzana side (Ruinas): route, elevation, safety tips, and the history of Gennargentu.
Punta La Marmora, at 1,834 meters above sea level, is the peak highest in Sardinia. Located in the heart of the Gennargentu massif, it offers a 360-degree view that on clear days allows you to see the entire island, from the Gulf of Orosei to the western coasts. A high-altitude hike with a wild and solitary charm.
Alberto La Marmora and the Transhumance
The peak owes its name to the Piedmontese general and naturalist Alberto Ferrero della Marmora, who in the nineteenth century explored and mapped the whole of Sardinia, describing its geology, flora, and fauna. However, these mountain paths had already been trodden for millennia by the shepherds of Arzana and Desulo for summer transhumance. The remains of ancient stone and schist folds bear witness to the harsh high-mountain life that characterized the pastoral history of Ogliastra.
The Itinerary from Ruinas (Arzana)
Several ascent routes exist, but the one starting from Ruinas (Arzana) is one of the most scenic and ecologically rich on the Ogliastra side.
- Difficulty: E (Hikers). The trail does not present technical difficulties but requires stamina due to slope and altitude.
- Starting altitude: 1,200 meters (Ruinas archaeological area).
- Maximum altitude: 1,834 meters (summit).
- Elevation change: 634 meters.
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours (round trip).
- Length: 12 km total.
The trail winds up through valleys shaped by wind and cold, among high-altitude grasslands where wild thyme (erba-barona) and Sardinian violet bloom. Along the way, it is easy to spot mouflons and majestic golden eagles nesting on the rocky cliffs.
The Summit Cross and Weather Management
At the top stands the large metal cross, symbol of the peak. The weather on the Gennargentu can change suddenly: in summer, hot temperatures can quickly give way to afternoon thunderstorms, while in autumn and winter, fog and snow can make navigation extremely difficult.
Water Points on the Trail
| Source | Position on route | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Ruinas Source | Near the start of the hike | Year-round |
| Funtana de is Biddaresos | Roughly halfway | Seasonal (reduced in summer) |
It is recommended to start with a good supply of water and layered clothing to cope with rapid temperature changes at high altitudes. A hot minestra di fratau (traditional Sardinian bread soup) is the ideal dish to regenerate upon returning to the village.
