The Is Arenas pine forest, one of the largest in Europe, earned its name from the sands. In fact, until the 1950s this area was an immense desert of towering dunes, some reaching over 30 meters in height.
In the 1950s, in response to the relentless advance of the dunes and the encroaching desert, local authorities made a strategic decision to plant thousands of pine trees. This effort was aimed at altering the microclimate of the region. Within the heart of this pine forest lies a hidden Roman bridge, sparking speculation that an ancient river once flowed through this desert, reaching the sea.
Our journey will meander through these ancient dunes, now blanketed with fragrant pine needles. It's a path enveloped in a symphony of scents, where we'll immerse ourselves in the aromatic world of Mediterranean plants and explore the unique energy of the pine forest.
From the pine-scented haven, we'll transition to the sea, pausing at the beach for those who wish to enjoy a refreshing swim. Along the way, we'll also encounter various plant species that have adapted to extreme environments, such as the resilient sand lily, as well as those more commonly found in the Mediterranean, like mastic, juniper, and myrtle.
Leaving Is Arenas beach behind, we'll re-enter the pine forest, making our way to the Is Arenas viewpoint. This vantage point offers a commanding vista of the entire western coast of Sardinia. Here, we'll pause to savor typical Sardinian products, including Sardinian cheese, sartitzu (Sardinian dried sausage), and a glass of fine wine.
From the Belvedere, we'll take in a breathtaking panorama, encompassing the ancient city of Cornus and the historically significant Phoenician-Punic port. This journey promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and historical exploration