Oliena, a pearl of Supramonte

Oliena, a beautiful village very close to Nuoro, has many reasons to be visited. The scenery in which the village stands, at the foot of Monte Corrasi, is unique. Famous for its handicrafts, its cuisine and for extraordinary filigree jewelry, is also known for the quality of its wine and the pristine beauty of its Supramonte.

To demonstrate the importance of its tourist offer, the village obtained the "Orange Flag", awarded by the Italian Touring Club, which tends to reward quality and efficiency of inland tourism. It is one of the six municipalities of Sardinia which can boast this prestigious award. Oliena, through its impressive cultural, historical and environmental heritage, an efficient touristic service, a remarkable expansion of the products of its territory and a successful promotion of shows and events, has managed to carve out an important role in inland tourism of Sardinia.

But if Oliena excels from a point of view of food and wine and crafts, it is not less from an environmental point of view.

It is the ideal place for trekking lovers. The wild and beautiful Supramonte of Oliena offers a range of stunning routes. An experience that is not to be missed is an hike in the mountains of the Rifugio Monte Maccione to reach the mountaintop of Lanaittu. The area is rich in fabulous caves: we highlight the caves of Sa Oche (the voice), Su Bentu (the wind) and Corbeddu's. The last is named after the famous bandit, who lived around the middle of the nineteenth century, that was a fugitive for several years right about here.

At the foot of the Supramonte is then yet another wonderful masterpiece of nature; another element that made famous Oliena. We are talking about the spectacular karst spring of Su Gologone. It is difficult to describe the beauty of this place. It is among the most beautiful of the island. The source is located between two dolomitic rock faces and has clear water, incredibly similar to that of the sea; you can admire all the nuances in incredible color effects.

Many cave divers climbed down into the depth of the source through several expeditions, the last of which took place in 2010, it has set a new depth record, having reached 135 meters, however without touching the bottom.

The magnificent karst spring, became a natural monument in 1998, it is located in a forest of rare beauty. Besides being one of the most important natural sites of Sardinia, it has become over time one of the most visited of the entire area, demonstrating how the nature, if properly protected and safeguarded, can become a great resource for the whole community.

Finally, how not to mention the Monte Corrasi? Another symbol of Oliena. This impressive massive dolomitic limestone, characterized by a harsh and narrow morphology, overlooking the village and the Punta Corrasi (1463 meters) is the highest point of the entire Supramonte. The mountain contains a botanical paradise of extraordinary value because of the numerous endemic species within it.

The view from this height is breathtaking. It dominates the Supramonte, the Gennargentu and the surrounding valleys.

Observing Oliena and Mount Corrasi from offshore is another equally fascinating. And what better place than the Monte Ortobene, (mountain overlooking Nuoro).

A magnificent glance.

Enjoying a stay in Oliena means to live every deep aspect of Sardinia and everything is destined to be imprinted. By the great food, the beauty of the historic center, the colors of the costumes with the genuine hospitality, the charm of nature to the mystery of the archaeological villages. A world where tourism means tradition.