Useful hiking tips

Useful hiking tips

Safety and hiking code of conduct

For their own safety, any self-respecting hiker subscribes to the “leave no trace” philosophy. And we know you’re one of us! To make the most of your hike and to respect the environment, the locals, fellow hikers and yourself, please act responsibly on the tracks:

Before you set off , plan your route carefully and always check the weather forecast. If it is raining or if it rained over the past few days, beware! Keep on the trail and stay away from the cliffs. The natural phenomenon of erosion is particularly evident during rain spells, when landslides frequently occur.

Keep your eyes open! You will appreciate more the surrounding nature and admire, among others, a fox, a griffon vulture or a fallow dear – for more information about the local fauna or flora, please visit our dedicated pages. What with the on-site way-marking and our step-by-step description for each section of the foot trail, you are bound to enjoy a hassle free hike, but observing and anticipating the path will make it all the easier for you to find your way around!

The Sardinia Sunset Trek depends on the right of way granted by local farmers. To ensure that your leisure activities do not hinder other people’s work (and vice versa), please always close gates behind you.

Do not light a fire under any circumstances. Fires are very common during dry spells and greatly damage the surrounding vegetation.

As you may have figured out by now, the Sardinia Sunset Trek is an eco-friendly trail. Do not pick plants, do not take sand with you and make sure you do not leave any traces: please take your garbage back with you and dispose of it in a rubbish bin.

Thanks. You rock!

The perfect hiking outfit

What should you wear on the Sardinia Sunset Trek? Here are a few tips:

  • Let’s start with the most important: wear sturdy hiking boots. This might seem obvious, but you can still see too many people wearing flip-flops trudging along treacherous paths to access secluded beaches. That’s the best way to get blisters. Ouch! Make sure you have appropriate hiking footwear: comfortable, broken-in, ankle-supporting boots. And no skimping on socks! Go for comfortable and breathable hiking socks.
  • Choose a light hiking outfit: -a T-shirt  shorts or light, hard-wearing walking trousers. The latter is particularly recommended during the summer season as an effective protection against ticks, as well as all year long for the most ticklish of us, since the path occasionally gets narrower and bordered with vegetation. Depending on the season, a light sweatshirt or sports jacket.
  • There is little shade to be found on the trail, so wear appropriate sun protection with sunglasses and a hat or cap.
  • When it rains, wear a waterproof jacket and bring a waterproof cover for your backpack.

Pack light, pack right

You’ll probably want to bring all the essentials without overloading your backpack. Have a look at our list:

  • Water galore! Please note that besides the touristic facilities highlighted on the map, there is no refreshment point. Make sure you have enough water supplies. You should bring on average 2 litres of water per person per day. This amount can obviously vary depending on your needs and the temperature.
  • Plenty of food. The sections of the Sardinia Sunset Trek differ in length and difficulty. Don’t forget to bring a picnic lunch if necessary, as well as some energy boosters (dried fruit, nuts, cereal bars…): these lightweight snacks will keep your motor running.
  • A small first-aid kit, that is, a few basic items to prevent from sunburns and blisters, and to treat minor injuries. There is no need for antivenin, since there are no venomous snakes in Sardinia and scorpions are harmless. However, during the summer months, beware of mosquitoes! Hikers who venture on the seaside are among their favourite preys. Also, watch out for ticks.
  • Your smartphone, with of course the step-by-step description of the Sardinia Sunset Trek. The trail follows the coastline, so a compass is optional. On the other hand, the map and descriptions will allow you to easily find your bearings, understand your surroundings, locate the nearest tourist facilities and thoroughly enjoy your hike.
  • A whistle, just in case. The Sardinia Sunset Trek does not involve major dangers, but as with any other trail, it is best to be prepared.
  • A headlamp with spare batteries. Again, you may not need it, but better safe than sorry.