🥾 The Way of Saint Barbara in Sant’Antioco: a journey through faith, mines and the sea

If you’re in Palma de Sols and looking for a spiritual and nature-filled experience off the beaten track, there’s a section of the Santa Barbara Trail that crosses the island of Sant’Antioco, brimming with beauty, history and tranquillity. A trail that smells of myrtle and salt, where every step tells an ancient story. 🌾⛪🌊

📍 What is the Way of Saint Barbara?

It is a mining and spiritual trail, stretching over 500 km, which crosses south-western Sardinia, passing archaeological sites, ancient mines and places of worship dedicated to the patron saint of miners, Saint Barbara. It is a pilgrimage, but also a journey through the history and soul of the Sulcis-Iglesiente region.

The Santa Barbara Trail, Sant’Antioco

🚶‍♀️ The Sant’Antioco stretch

The route reaches the island by crossing the isthmus linking Sant’Antioco to Sardinia and continues through coastal landscapes, salt flats, dirt tracks and rural areas, right into the heart of the village. Here, at this symbolic and deeply meaningful stop, stands the Basilica of Sant’Antioco Martire, linked to early Christian worship and a destination for pilgrimages for centuries.

Along the way, you can admire:

• the salt flats and ponds where pink flamingos gather

• the view over Calasetta and the island of San Pietro

• the countryside around Is Pruinis, where the Domus de Janas are located

• ancient paths once used to transport salt and coal

• the utter tranquillity of the dirt tracks, perfect for strolling at a leisurely pace and listening

  
  

🧭 Tips for those setting off from Palma de Sols:

• Pack a light rucksack with water, dried fruit and sun cream

• Set off early in the morning to enjoy the light and the mild temperatures

• No special equipment is required: the Sant’Antioco section is also suitable for novice walkers

• You can choose to walk just a section or join those who are doing the whole route

  
  

👉 The Way of Saint Barbara in Sant’Antioco is much more than just a walk: it is a slow, profound experience, in which every landscape becomes a page to be read with your eyes and your heart. From Palma de Sols, you can set off on a journey of self-discovery. A spiritual destination… just a short walk away.