Best natural monuments around Gàiru/Gairo are found in a region characterized by a diverse natural landscape, extending from the Gennargentu mountains to the sea. This area, located in the Province of Ogliastra in Sardinia, Italy, features a variety of geological formations and natural attractions. Visitors can explore mountains, caves, natural pools, and coastal areas. The landscape offers opportunities to experience Sardinia's natural beauty.
Last updated: June 28, 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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With an all-mountain mountain bike you can do almost everything on the bike, both uphill and downhill
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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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Punta La Marmora, which rises 1,834 meters above sea level, is the highest peak in Sardinia. It is located in the Gennargentu massif. A cross crowns the top of this magnificent place. Running up here isn't difficult, except for some occasionally steep sections. It's not very technical; you just have to be fit. The breathtaking views make it truly extraordinary. You can see up to the lake of the upper Flumendosa, Perda Liana and Arbatax, if the fog allows it, and on the other side you can range up to Oristano. It's incredible.
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The cave is very worth seeing. We can also recommend the restaurant.
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Punta La Marmora (Perdas Carpìas in the Sardinian language), with its 1,834 meters is the highest peak in Sardinia. The peak bears the name of the general and scientist Alberto Ferrero della Marmora, who described the island in two scientific-literary works; Voyage en Sardaigne, from 1826 and Itinéraire de l'île de Sardaigne, from 1860.
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Beyond the well-known spots, you can explore Perda e Liana, a striking natural monument and vertical rock tower, considered a symbol of Ogliastra. Another notable site is the Su Marmuri Cave, a spectacular stalactite cave that can only be visited with a guide. The area also features Monte Ferru with its evocative natural pools called 'Piscinas', fed by fresh springs.
Yes, Is Piscinas Pools and Waterfalls is explicitly mentioned as suitable for families and ideal for smaller children, offering natural bathing pools. Additionally, the beaches of Su Sirboni and Coccorrocci provide natural settings for relaxation and swimming, which can be enjoyable for families.
The Gairo area offers diverse outdoor activities. For hiking, you can find routes like the challenging 'Pirincanes Gorge Loop' or the 'Montarbu - Perda Liana Loop Trail'. There are also easier options such as the 'View of the Valley and the Sea – Coccorrocci Trail Signpost loop'. You can find more details on these and other hiking routes in the Hiking around Gàiru/Gairo guide.
Absolutely. For running enthusiasts, routes like 'Sa Perda Stampada Rock Arch – View of the Coast loop from Coccorrocci' offer scenic trails. Cyclists can explore road cycling routes such as the 'Ring in the Gennargentiu Mountains from Gairo Taquisara' or the 'Arbatax Red Rocks – Torre di Barì loop'. More information is available in the Running Trails around Gàiru/Gairo and Road Cycling Routes around Gàiru/Gairo guides.
The highest point in Sardinia, offering panoramic views over the entire island, is the Summit of Punta La Marmora. On a clear day, you might even see the silhouettes of Corsica. The hike to the 1,834-meter summit is challenging but rewards with extensive vistas across varied landscapes.
Gairo is known for its striking geological features. Sa Perda Stampada Rock Window showcases bizarre, curved rock formations shaped by wind and weather. Perda e Liana is a dramatic vertical tower, a 'heel' or 'tonneri', formed from Jurassic rock. The area also features red porphyry rocks around the 'Piscinas' natural pools.
Yes, the Su Marmuri Cave is a significant natural monument near Gairo. It is a spectacular stalactite cave that can only be visited with a guide. It's recommended to wear warm clothes as the temperature inside is around 10°C.
For hiking to Punta La Marmora, the months from June to September are ideal. However, many natural monuments and trails in the Gairo area can be enjoyed year-round, depending on the specific activity and weather conditions. Always check local forecasts before your visit.
Visitors appreciate the unique and bizarre rock formations, such as those at Sa Perda Stampada Rock Window, which offer great views. The natural pools and waterfalls at Is Piscinas are loved for their beauty and suitability for relaxation. The panoramic views from high points like Punta La Marmora are also a major draw.
While Gairo is inland, the municipality extends to the sea, offering notable coastal natural features. Su Sirboni beach is characterized by pale, amber-colored sand and porphyry pebbles amidst lush vegetation. Coccorrocci beach features dramatic red porphyry cliffs and natural emerald green pools, providing a unique blend of mountain and coastal scenery.
For activities like hiking to Punta La Marmora, sturdy hiking boots, sufficient water, and sun protection are essential. If you plan to visit the Su Marmuri Cave, warm clothes are highly recommended due to the low temperatures inside.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Gàiru/Gairo: