The 100 Towers Trail

Alghero, the fifth-largest city in Sardinia with around 44,000 inhabitants, is one of the main gateways to the island thanks to Fertilia Airport. Overlooking the intensely colored sea, it charms visitors with its historic center surrounded by bastions, red rooftops, and panoramic seaside promenades. The coastline, about 90 km long and known as the Riviera del Corallo, hosts the most important colony of precious coral in the Mediterranean and beautiful beaches such as Le Bombarde, Lazzaretto, Mugoni, Lido di San Giovanni, and the Maria Pia dunes. Much of the coast is part of the Capo Caccia – Isola Piana Marine Protected Area, home to the famous Neptune’s Grotto.

The surrounding territory is enriched by the Porto Conte Park, an oasis of Mediterranean scrub, forests, and lagoons, as well as numerous archaeological sites, including domus de janas, necropolises, and nuraghi. The historic center retains a strong Catalan imprint, visible in its walls and religious buildings, such as Santa Maria Cathedral and the churches of San Michele and del Carmelo. The city is also a vibrant cultural hub, with sites like Casa Manno, the Coral Museum, and cherished traditions including the Catalan New Year and Holy Week rituals.

Alghero is home to important custodians of local agricultural and livestock biodiversity: Angelo Murineddu, custodian of the Sardinian pig, and Monica Carboni, who preserves various traditional varieties such as the Arrubia almond, Appiu apple, Faita Brent’e Monza bean, Cossu almond, Camusina pear of Sassari, Niedda almond, Pompìa citrus, and Seba Mitja Vermella onion, contributing to the safeguarding of a precious heritage that defines the identity of the territory.

Arbus is a territory with a name of uncertain origin, which could derive from the Latin albus, referring to the light color of the mountain rocks; from arburis, for the ancient abundance of trees; or from arabus, linked to barbarian invasions along its coasts. More certain and deeply rooted, however, is its artisanal tradition, particularly the crafting of curved-blade knives, the is arresoias arburesas, a symbol of manual skill and local identity.

The municipality of Arbus covers one of the largest areas in Italy, second only in Sardinia to Sassari, occupying a vast territory in the central-southwest of the island. Its coastline stretches for about 47 kilometers and is among the most striking in Sardinia, alternating wide golden sand beaches, tall dunes shaped by the wind, and cliffs overlooking crystal-clear waters.

This coastal area is known as the Costa Verde, a wild and pristine landscape where some of the tallest dunes in Europe descend toward waters of intense azure and emerald green. Behind the sea, Mediterranean vegetation shaped by the mistral wind forms unique scenes, with centuries-old junipers bent close to the ground.

Arbus is a destination for those who love authentic, unconventional places, far from mass tourism, where hospitality is simple and genuine, deeply connected to Sardinian lifestyle and direct contact with nature. In this context, the presence of local biodiversity custodians plays a fundamental role: Atzeni Pietro, who safeguards the Sardo-Modicana cow, the Sardinian goat, and the Black sheep of Arbus; Schirru Monica and Schirru Roberto, custodians of the Sardo-Modicana cow; Casti Sebastiano for the Sardinian donkey; Lampis Mauro and Sandro, Saba Monica, Isu Paolo, and Dessì Ignazio, engaged in protecting the Black sheep of Arbus, with Saba Monica also active in safeguarding the Sardinian goat; and Pala Gabriella, custodian of the Sardinian goat. Thanks to their dedication, a valuable livestock heritage continues to live on, preserving and telling the deep identity of this territory.

Arzachena is a town in Gallura, located about 25 kilometers from Olbia, characterized by a vast and varied territory that alternates between stunning beaches, vineyard-covered hills, striking granite landscapes, and significant archaeological sites. It has around 14,000 residents in the winter months, but an equivalent number of beds, reflecting its strong tourism vocation and steady demographic and economic growth.

The name Arzachena is closely linked to the Costa Smeralda, a symbol of elite tourism that emerged in the 1960s and became internationally renowned. Alongside luxury tourism, the local economy also relies on nautical activities, granite extraction—a distinctive element of the historic center’s architecture—and a solid wine tradition, particularly the production of Vermentino di Gallura.

From the small nucleus that grew around the Church of Santa Maria until the 17th century, the urban center has evolved into a harmonious combination of squares, pink granite and limestone facades, flowered corners, and green spaces animated by artisan workshops, boutiques, and local cafés. The municipal territory also includes historic Gallurese stazzi, often converted into agritourisms and B&Bs, and numerous hamlets such as Abbiadori, Baja Sardinia, Cannigione, Poltu Quatu, and Porto Cervo.

Within this rich and dynamic context, the protection of local biodiversity plays a key role. In Arzachena, several custodians safeguard traditional animal breeds and agricultural varieties: Santino Filippeddu, custodian of the Arrubia almond and Cossu; Santino Filippeddu also oversees the Sardo-Modicana cow, Sardinian donkey, and Sardinian pig; Luca Piasotti, protecting the Sardo-Modicana and Sardo-Bruna cows; Caterina Marchetti, custodian of the Sardinian donkey and the Asinara donkey; Pasqua Abeltino, safeguarding the Giara horse and Sardinian donkey; and Fabiola Pusceddu, custodian of the Sardinian pig. Thanks to their efforts, this invaluable heritage continues to be preserved and enhanced, maintaining Arzachena’s identity and cultural legacy.

Cabras is a charming town in central-western Sardinia, overlooking the Sinis Peninsula and its eponymous lagoon, just a few kilometers from Oristano. Its territory offers a harmonious balance of sea, wetlands, sandy dunes, and a millennia-old history, making it an ideal destination for those wishing to discover an authentic Sardinia.

The landscape is dominated by the Cabras Lagoon, one of the island’s largest and most evocative wetlands, home to pink flamingos, herons, and numerous bird species. Together with the coastal dunes and Mediterranean scrub, it provides perfect scenery for birdwatching and nature walks. Within a short distance from the town are some of Sardinia’s most iconic beaches, such as Is Arutas, famous for its quartz sand with colorful reflections, and Mari Ermi and Maimoni, where crystal-clear waters meet a still-wild coastline.

Cabras is also an important historical and cultural crossroads. Nearby lie the remains of the ancient city of Tharros, founded by the Phoenicians and later flourishing in Roman times. In the town, the “Giovanni Marongiu” Civic Museum preserves artifacts that tell the long history of the Sinis area, including the famous Giants of Mont’e Prama, ancient nuragic statues. The local culinary tradition, strongly tied to the sea, centers on bottarga di muggine (cured mullet roe), a symbolic product celebrated in festivals and events that animate town life.

Within this context of deep connection to the land, the preservation of agricultural biodiversity plays a crucial role. In Cabras, Enrico Lepori works as a custodian farmer of the Sardinian Spiny Artichoke, preserving the Agris 1, Agris 2, and Agris 3 clones. Thanks to his dedication, this traditional and valuable Sardinian crop continues to be cultivated and promoted, helping safeguard the rural and cultural heritage of the area.

This picturesque town on the southwestern coast of Sardinia, with just over 2,500 inhabitants, maintains an intimate and authentic atmosphere, with brightly colored houses, cobbled streets, and a slow pace of life closely tied to the sea.

The town’s history is deeply connected to the Tabarchino community, which arrived in the 18th century from the Tunisian island of Tabarca. This heritage is still evident today in the local language, traditions, architecture, and culture. The historic center, with its low houses, red-tiled roofs, pastel or light-colored façades, and Ligurian-influenced details, reflects this Mediterranean legacy.

Calasetta’s territory is enriched by stunning beaches such as Sotto Torre and Le Saline, featuring golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and rocky stretches interspersed with small coves. Dunes and seabeds teeming with marine life make the area ideal for hiking, snorkeling, and diving. The harbor serves as the social heart of the town, hosting gatherings, events, and festivals that strengthen the sense of community.

Alongside its natural and cultural heritage, Calasetta also preserves important agricultural traditions. In particular, the protection of local biodiversity plays a significant role. In Calasetta, Michele Ricci and Marianna Aresti serve as custodians of the Calasetta Black Lentil, a traditional and valuable crop. Thanks to their dedication, this heritage variety continues to be preserved and promoted, helping to keep the agricultural memory and local identity alive.

Carloforte is a charming village on San Pietro Island, in southwestern Sardinia, about 60 km from Carbonia. With around 6,000 inhabitants, the town is famous for its pastel-colored houses, cobbled streets, and lively atmosphere that blends maritime traditions with Ligurian culture, inherited from the Tabarchino settlers who arrived from Tabarca in the 17th century.

The historic center is a maze of alleys opening onto the harbor, the pulsating heart of town life, where fishermen dock their boats every day and restaurants serve local specialties based on tuna, shellfish, and other seafood. The colorful façades, flowered balconies, and inner courtyards tell the story of a community proud of its Mediterranean roots.

Carloforte boasts a strong gastronomic tradition, with a particular focus on tuna processing and the preparation of traditional sweets such as cucuruzza and Tabarchino cookies. The annual Tuna Festival attracts visitors from across the island and abroad, celebrating the deep bond between the community and the sea.

The surrounding beaches, such as La Bobba and Guidi, offer golden sands and crystal-clear waters, while scenic trails and nature paths allow visitors to explore cliffs plunging into the sea, hidden coves, and the Mediterranean scrub covering the inland hills. Carloforte is therefore a true paradise for sailing, snorkeling, and trekking enthusiasts.

Within this area of great natural and cultural value, the preservation of agricultural biodiversity plays a crucial role. In Carloforte, Erica Di Pasqua works as a custodian farmer of Facussa (Cucumis melo L.), a traditional local melon variety. Thanks to her dedication, this native crop continues to be preserved and promoted, helping to keep the island’s agricultural and cultural identity alive and passing on a unique and valuable rural heritage to future generations.

Castelsardo is one of Sardinia’s most charming villages, perched on a promontory overlooking the Gulf of Asinara in the north of the island. Founded in the 13th century by the Genoese Doria family, the town has preserved the allure of a medieval citadel by the sea, where history, spectacular views, and centuries-old traditions blend harmoniously.

The historic center revolves around the Doria Castle, an imposing fortress that still dominates the town and houses the Mediterranean Weaving Museum. From here, a maze of cobbled streets, stairways, and arches leads to panoramic squares, artisan workshops, and ancient stone houses, offering stunning views of the sea and coastline.

Castelsardo is renowned for its artisanal tradition, particularly the ancient craft of palm-fiber basket weaving, passed down through generations and now one of the village’s iconic symbols. The religious heritage is also significant, represented by the Cathedral of Sant’Antonio Abate, with its distinctive dome-topped bell tower dominating the town’s skyline.

The surrounding area offers picturesque beaches and coves such as Lu Bagnu, along with scenic trails connecting the village to the coast and inland areas. Castelsardo is also famous for traditional events with deep symbolic value, including the Holy Week rituals, among the most intense and widely attended in Sardinia.

Within this rich historical and cultural context, the preservation of agricultural biodiversity plays a crucial role. In Castelsardo, Mario Tirotto serves as a custodian farmer of the Gioghedda Bean of Castelsardo, a traditional variety deeply connected to the territory. Thanks to his dedication, this valuable agricultural heritage continues to be preserved and promoted, helping to maintain the rural and cultural identity of the village.

Domus de Maria is a municipality in southwestern Sardinia, located just a few kilometers from Pula and set in a territory of extraordinary natural beauty, where the countryside meets one of the island’s most pristine coastal areas. The village retains an authentic, rural character, deeply connected to agro-pastoral traditions and the slow pace of life typical of small Sardinian towns.

The municipal territory extends to the Chia coastline, famous for its bright white sandy beaches, wind-shaped dunes, and sea with intense shades of turquoise and emerald. Iconic beaches such as Su Giudeu, Cala Cipolla, and Porto Campana are set within a highly valuable natural environment, often accompanied by lagoons inhabited by pink flamingos and lush Mediterranean scrub.

Much of the area is part of the Chia Park, a protected natural area offering scenic trails, hiking routes, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, birdwatching, cycling, and water sports. The territory also preserves important historical evidence, from inland nuraghi to Phoenician and Roman traces along the coast, while the town itself maintains a strong community identity with low houses and cozy squares.

In this context of deep connection to the land, the preservation of local agricultural biodiversity plays a crucial role. In Domus de Maria, Paolo Atzeri, Pierluigi Cara, Andrea Cara, and Davide Carta serve as custodians of the Figu Niedda de Chia, a traditional fig variety that is strongly tied to the identity of the area. Thanks to their dedication, this valuable agricultural heritage continues to be preserved and passed on, helping safeguard the rural and cultural identity of the community.

Domus de Maria, in southwestern Sardinia, combines rural tradition with unspoiled nature. Its territory includes the iconic beaches of Chia, with white dunes, lagoons with flamingos, and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation and authentic Sardinian experiences.

Dorgali is a charming town in central-eastern Sardinia, nestled between the mountains of the Supramonte and the clear waters of the Gulf of Orosei. Its territory, one of the largest and most diverse on the island, contains a natural heritage of extraordinary beauty, featuring limestone plateaus, deep canyons, karst caves, forests, and some of the most spectacular coasts in the Mediterranean.

The town maintains a strong cultural identity, visible in its folk traditions, costumes, and local crafts. Woodworking, leatherworking, and carpet-making reflect ancient knowledge passed down through generations. The historic center, with its stone houses, inner courtyards, and notable churches such as Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, tells the story of a community deeply connected to its roots.

From the municipal territory, visitors can reach iconic sites such as the Gorropu Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in Europe, and inland caves, while the coastline reveals stunning spots like Cala Luna, Cala Sisine, and Cala Cartoe, characterized by white cliffs and turquoise waters. The area is ideal for hiking, caving, climbing, and outdoor activities, where nature and adventure coexist in perfect harmony.

In this context of deep connection to the land, the preservation of agricultural biodiversity plays a fundamental role. In Dorgali, key custodians safeguard traditional varieties: Maria Salvatorina Ignazia Patteri preserves numerous fruit varieties, including the Appiu Apple, Miali Apple, Trempa Orrùbia Apple, Pira Bau Pear, and the various Camusina Pears of Bonarcado, Sassari, and Vallermosa; Cristina Lai is the guardian of the Ogliastrina Olive. Thanks to their dedication, this valuable agricultural heritage continues to be protected and passed on, helping to maintain the rural and cultural identity of Dorgali.

Fluminimaggiore is a municipality in southwestern Sardinia, nestled between mountains, green valleys, and a rugged, wild coastline overlooking the Sea of Sardinia. The town stretches along the course of the Mannu River and maintains a strong connection to its mining history, which for over a century shaped both the landscape and the identity of the local community.

The surrounding area is characterized by limestone ridges, holm oak forests, and Mediterranean scrub, crossed by numerous trails ideal for hiking, cycling, or horseback riding. Among the most notable natural sites are the Su Mannau Caves, one of Sardinia’s most important karst complexes, used since ancient times as a Nuragic sanctuary and today appreciated for its extraordinary beauty.

The municipality extends to the coast, where Portixeddu Beach offers a wide stretch of golden sand washed by clear, often windy waters—popular among surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Nearby cliffs and coves provide pristine, lightly frequented environments, perfect for those seeking silence and direct contact with nature. The area also preserves important archaeological sites, such as the Temple of Antas, dedicated to the god Sardus Pater, set in a lush and evocative valley.

In this context of strong connection to the land, the preservation of local agricultural biodiversity is especially important. In Fluminimaggiore, dedicated custodians work to protect traditional varieties: Martino Liscia, guardian of the White Bean of Fluminimaggiore and the White Corn (Maize), and Annalisa Congia, guardian of the White Bean of Fluminimaggiore. Thanks to their efforts, this valuable agricultural heritage continues to be preserved and passed on, helping to maintain the rural and cultural identity of the territory.

Lotzorai is a small and charming municipality in central-eastern Sardinia, situated between the crystal-clear waters of Ogliastra and the first foothills of the inland mountains. The territory, flat and fertile, stretches from the mouth of the Rio Pramaera to a low, sandy coastline, characterized by wide beaches and gently sloping seabeds—ideal for families and anyone who enjoys spending time in nature.

Lotzorai’s coastline is among the most accessible in Ogliastra, offering stunning views of the Ogliastra islet and the high limestone cliffs that close the horizon to the south. The beaches, less crowded than those in more well-known locations, maintain a peaceful and authentic atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a simple and genuine seaside experience.

Behind the coast lies an agricultural landscape of vineyards, orchards, and citrus groves, reflecting the village’s rural vocation. The town center, compact and orderly, retains a discreet character, with quiet squares and a strong sense of community. The surrounding area preserves important archaeological traces, including nuraghi and remains of ancient settlements, bearing witness to millennia of human presence.

In this context of strong connection to the land and local traditions, the preservation of animal biodiversity is particularly important. In Lotzorai, Monica Arzu works as a guardian of the Sardinian Donkey, dedicated to protecting this native breed. Thanks to her efforts, a precious genetic and cultural heritage is preserved, helping to maintain the rural and agricultural identity of the territory and pass on an authentic, deeply rooted tradition to future generations.