Monsa ' Giuanni - Peak La Marmora (T 741 B)

In the Green Heart of Ogliastra: Between Trails, Nature, and Millennia of History 

The area includes 32 of the 440 km that make up Ogliastra’s network of hiking trails — a true paradise for hikers. These routes cross one of the most water-rich regions of Sardinia, offering spectacular landscapes and an incredible variety of natural environments.
Here lies the Alto Flumendosa basin, which forms the highest artificial lake on the island. Further downstream, the Flumendosa River flows between the granite massif of the Arzanese Gennargentu and the fascinating limestone formations of the Tonneri of Seui, then skirts the territories of Gairo, dominated by the imposing profile of the natural monument Perda Liana. Venturing into the heart of the Gennargentu, one cannot miss the spectacular waterfalls of the Rio e Forrù, which flows into the Rio Pirincanis—an untouched and wild corner, ideal for those who love the most authentic nature. The trails wind through high-altitude pastures and ancient forests. The river valleys are adorned with galleries of black alder trees that follow the course of the main streams, while along the Flumendosa Valley, elegant holm oak forests provide shade and coolness even on the hottest days. The journey through nature is enriched with fascinating archaeological stops. Among them, the Nuragic village of Ruinas stands out, with its impressive nuraghe and over two hundred circular stone huts—a sign of ancient civilizations and important pastoral communities. The agro-pastoral soul of the area is still alive and vibrant. This is evident in the many “cuiles”—ancient stone shepherd shelters—found along trails T741, 741B, and T122, which are part of the Sentiero Italia. Among the best known are: Cuile Balloe, Cuile su Fumu, Cuile Gidinis, Cuile Marongiu, Cuile Loddos, Cuile Perdiargiu and, just before reaching Punta La Marmora, Cuile ‘e Luisu Cucca and the remains of Cuile su Fonnesu. After crossing the Flumendosa River, you reach Corte ‘e Didalu, a strategic junction: from here, turning right, you take the road that crosses the Gennargentu, connecting Ogliastra to Barbagia, between the municipalities of Arzana and Desulo. Cell phone coverage is limited in many areas, but essential services are ensured thanks to accommodations in nearby villages and the valuable support of local hiking guides, who can turn the hike into a safe and memorable experience.