Length: 20.9 km
Difference in altitude: uphill 753 m – downhill 797 m
Difficulty: medium
Duration: 7 hrs
Brief description
As of this first stage, we are walking on the most ancient limestone-dolomite rocks in Italy, on big deposits of lead, zinc and silver that have been the subject of intense mining activity for centuries. Straight away we are immersed in the great cultural, environmental and religious heritage of Sardinia.
From the medieval city of Iglesias to the town of Nebida, we encounter chapels, churches and places of worship dedicated to the patron saint of miners.
The passage in the sanctuary of the Madonna del Buon Cammino gives this first day a particular spiritual meaning.
On the average this stage is demanding, not so much for the length, as for the two uphill stretches that must be climbed in the first part of the walk in order to reach the Buon Cammino hilltop (341 masl) and the excavations of Cungiaus (323 masl).
SAFETY AND USEFUL TIPS
To get to the Buon Cammino hill, you walk along urban streets in the historic centre of Iglesias, so watch out for crossings.
Leaving the Monastery of the Buon Cammino, follow a dirt road that turns north. This section of the path runs alongside fences that delimit and prevent passage to some caves/excavations – do not cross the fences and follow the path.
In order to get to Monte Agruxau Cross the SP84 (provincial road) then take the asphalt road to cross Monte Agruxau – watch out for vehicular traffic. The same care must be taken when arriving at Nebida, where you cross the village on an asphalt road.
Some passages, although in a wide and comfortable roadway, may be exposed to falling from above – do not lean towards the exposed part and keep to the centre or upstream side of the roadway if necessary.
There are various old structures along the route, in most cases these are properly fenced, but in some cases they may be open – do not venture inside them and always admire them from a distance.