Monte Corrasi (1,463 m) dominates the horizon above Oliena and the surrounding Supramonte karst plateau is one of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in Italy. The route crosses the white limestone plateau with extraordinary views, passing through ancient holm oak forests and traversing the summit.
Monte Corrasi, at 1,463 metres, is the great white limestone peak that towers over the town of Oliena and the surrounding Supramonte karst plateau in Nuoro Province, eastern Sardinia. The loop is a demanding route of roughly 15 kilometres with around 1,100 metres of ascent, starting and finishing in or just above Oliena, which is reached by road from Nuoro with parking near the trailhead. The walk climbs steeply from the valley into a stark world of brilliant white karst limestone, where the path crosses fissured rock pavements, dolines and ridges with extraordinary views over the Barbagia interior and, on clear days, the distant coast. The surface is sharp, fractured limestone and loose scree, demanding constant attention to footing, with stretches of scrambling and no waymarking across the plateau; ancient holm oak forest clings to the lower slopes and gullies, offering the only real shade. The karst landscape is notoriously disorienting, with few reference points and many false trails, which is why a local guide from Oliena is strongly recommended for navigation. Griffon vultures and golden eagles patrol the cliffs and ridgelines, and the summit traverse is the high point of the day. There are no refuge huts, shops or reliable water on the route, so walkers must carry everything and a means of navigation. The descent returns through the forest back to Oliena. Near the start, the Su Gologone karst spring makes a memorable post-hike stop, and the village of Oliena offers traditional dining. Combining serious physical effort, complex terrain and one of the most striking limestone landscapes in Italy, the Monte Corrasi loop is best suited to experienced, fit hikers comfortable with rough karst ground, scrambling and self-reliant navigation across an exposed plateau.
Trail facts
- Best season
- April to June and September to October
Highlights
- Summit views over Barbagia and coast
- White limestone karst plateau
- Griffon vultures and golden eagles
- Ancient holm oak forest
- Start from charming town of Oliena
Tips for visiting
- The Su Gologone spring near Oliena is a perfect post-hike reward
- book dinner at Hotel Su Gologone
When to visit
Spring and early autumn bring mild temperatures and clearer air for the long views. The exposed white limestone reflects heat strongly in summer, so an early start and careful weather check are advised year-round.
Accessibility
The loop crosses sharp, fissured karst limestone and scree with scrambling and no surfaced paths, so it is not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible and is suitable only for experienced, sure-footed hikers.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a guide recommended for Monte Corrasi?
The white karst plateau is unmarked and disorienting, with fissured rock, dolines and many false trails. A local guide from Oliena greatly reduces the risk of losing the route across this complex terrain.
How demanding is the loop?
It is a difficult full day: about 15 kilometres with 1,100 metres of ascent over sharp limestone and scree, including scrambling sections. Good fitness and sure-footedness are essential.
Is there water or shelter on the route?
No. There are no huts, shops or reliable water sources on the plateau, so all food and water must be carried, along with sun protection for the largely shadeless rock.
What is worth doing after the hike?
The Su Gologone karst spring near Oliena makes a refreshing post-hike stop, and Oliena itself offers traditional Barbagia dining, including at Hotel Su Gologone.