Trekking tour to Su Sercone (Su Sielhone)

In the heart of the Supramonte of Orgosolo, among limestone plateaus, holm oak forests and ancient shepherd paths, opens one of the most extraordinary geological wonders of Sardinia: the sinkhole of Su Sercone, also known as Su Sielhone. This enormous karst depression, approximately 500 metres wide and over 200 metres deep, is considered the largest sinkhole in Sardinia and one of the most spectacular natural phenomena of the Supramonte. Its funnel-like shape formed over long processes of erosion and collapse of the limestone bedrock, creating a breathtaking natural amphitheatre in the heart of the Barbagia. This guided hike to Su Sercone allows you to discover one of the most authentic environments of the Sardinian Supramonte, far from the most beaten paths and immersed in unspoilt nature. The silence of the forests, the vastness of the plateaus and the sudden opening of the sinkhole make this trek an unforgettable experience for those who love mountains and grand natural landscapes.

The trek starts in the evocative Lanaitho Valley, one of the main gateways to the Supramonte, in the territories of Oliena and Dorgali. Here the landscape is dominated by limestone ridges, holm oak forests, centuries-old junipers and canyons that speak of the karst nature of this part of Sardinia. The trail crosses wild and panoramic environments, alternating woodland stretches with more open areas of the plateau. Walking along ancient shepherd tracks you reach the area of Campu Donanigoro, a karst plain of great natural and historical interest, situated at the boundary between the Supramonte of Orgosolo, Oliena and Dorgali. From the rim of the depression you can appreciate the enormous natural amphitheatre that plunges towards the floor of the sinkhole. The vertical walls and the almost perfect shape of the crater make Su Sercone one of the most scenic locations in the Supramonte of Orgosolo. Nearby you will also find historic sheepfolds, nuragic ruins and a landscape where the bond between people and the mountain has remained very strong. During the walk it is not unusual to spot some of the symbol animals of these mountains, such as mouflons, as well as numerous bird species and plants typical of the Barbagia. The trek is therefore interesting not only for its scenery but also for anyone who loves geology, biodiversity and the history of the territory.

The Su Sercone hiking tour is rated high level, suited to hikers with good physical fitness and experience walking on natural and uneven terrain. The programme covers a full day, with departure from Orosei in the morning, transfer by Land Rover 4×4 off-road vehicle and return in the late afternoon. The best time for this trek is spring and autumn, when temperatures are milder and the light enhances the grand landscapes of the Supramonte. In summer the heat can make the route more demanding, while in the intermediate seasons the trail is more pleasant and scenic. Recommended equipment: trekking boots, at least 2 litres of water, packed lunch, hat, sunscreen and a windproof jacket. This tour is part of the trekking experiences in the Supramonte of Sardinia, one of the most spectacular natural environments on the island, where you can also find the Su Gorropu Gorge and the nuragic village of Tiscali.

Su Sercone, also called Su Sielhone or Su Suercone, is a gigantic karst sinkhole in the Supramonte of Orgosolo. It is approximately 500 metres in diameter and over 200 metres deep, making it the largest sinkhole in Sardinia and one of the most spectacular geological features of the Supramonte.

The Su Sercone sinkhole is located in the Supramonte of Orgosolo, in the centre-east of Sardinia, in a mountain area between the territories of Orgosolo, Oliena and Dorgali. The best-known hiking access point is the Lanaitho Valley.

The trek to Su Sercone is rated high level. It requires good physical fitness, sure footing and experience walking on mountain trails and the irregular terrain typical of the Supramonte.

The tour occupies a full day. Departure from Orosei is at 8:30 a.m. and return is between 4:00 and 4:30 p.m., with approximately 6 hours of actual walking.

The best period for the Su Sercone trek is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months temperatures are milder, visibility is generally better and the walk is more pleasant than in the hotter months.

The route runs through a remote area of the Supramonte and for safety reasons it is strongly recommended to use a licensed hiking guide. In mountain and karst environments such as this, knowledge of the territory is essential both for route-finding and for appreciating the natural landscape.

The best-known access point is the Lanaitho Valley, considered one of the main gateways to the Supramonte. Best Sardinia Trips arranges departure from Orosei with transfer by Land Rover 4×4 off-road vehicle to the trailhead.

Essential items: trekking boots, at least 2 litres of water, packed lunch, hat, sunscreen and a windproof jacket. Optional: sunglasses and camera. There are no supply points along the route.

Contact Sergio Nanni directly by phone, WhatsApp or email. We reply within 24 hours and can arrange private departures for groups of any size.