A unique winter holiday in Sardinia - Fonni

In the collective imagination, talking about Sardinia means talking about the sea, summer, and getting tanned. But there is another version of Sardinia, just as beautiful and fascinating: it is the Sardinia of the mountains. Several mountain massifs tell the winter story of this beautiful region- the highest of which is Gennargentu. Millions of years old rocks preserve enchanting places and ancient traditions. Right on the slopes of Gennargentu, in the Barbagia region, stands Fonni, the highest village in Sardinia, which is surrounded by centuries-old woods and prehistoric remains. Let us now suggest how to spend a unique winter holiday in Sardinia, while in this area.

Fonni in literature

This is how the great Sardinian writer, Nobel Prize winner, describes Fonni and its landscape. This country, which today has about 4000 inhabitants, is the most populated center of Barbagia, stands at about 1000 meters above sea level, and is also a famous ski destination. The ski lifts are located in the Bruncu Spina complex, and both cross-country skiing and downhill skiing are practiced here.

Bruncu Spina

Bruncu Spina, 08032 Desulo NU, Italia

Fonni and its seasons

Winter in this area is characterized by frequent and intense snowfall, while in the warmer seasons, there is a wonderful spectacle of nature: enchanting flowers of all colors frame the surrounding woods. It is the perfect environment for challenging trekking routes, through woods and springs, in close contact with nature and with the possibility of spotting various rare species.

The historic centre of Fonni

In the historic districts of the ancient village of Fonni, there are houses covered with scandulas, ancient wooden tiles, and you can admire numerous murals, which describe local life and traditions. In the autumn, visiting the cellars is a must, especially during the "Autunno in Barbagia," a food and wine event. At the center of the village, there are important churches, such as the late Gothic style Church of San Giovanni Battista, and the Sanctuary of the Madonna dei Martiri, alongside the Franciscan monastery from the 1600s. In the churches, we find frescoes of considerable artistic and historical value. A few meters away is the Museum of Pastoral Culture, set up in an ancient nineteenth-century manor house, where you can relive the rhythms and the flow of agro-pastoral life.

Chiesa San Giovanni Battista Fonni

Via S. Giovanni, 08023 Fonni NU, Italia

Santuario Madonna dei Martiri Fonni

Piazza Martiri, 8, 08023 Fonni NU, Italia

Museo della Cultura Pastorale Fonni

Via Gennargentu, 08023 Fonni NU, Italia

The traditions

Among the most interesting traditions is the local confectionery production, especially of the typical Fonni ladyfingers biscuits, which are made with egg, sugar, and flour. They have been produced since ancient times. At the beginning of August, the historic "Palio di Fonni" takes place. During the Carnival period, the tradition is resumed with the holding of the Fonnese Carnival, which is famous for the use of the masks of 'Urthos and Buttudos.'

Archaeology in Fonni

The archaeological jewel of this area, a few kilometers from the town, is the Gremanu sanctuary, which dates back to the Nuragic period. Immersed in a thick oak forest, it is the only nuragic aqueduct on the island associated with the Madau Necropolis. It includes the 4 Tombs of the Giants that are in a bull's head shape. This settlement is dated between the 15th and 9th centuries BCE and is composed of three temples in basalt, limestone, and trachyte, which alternate to create pleasant chromatic effects. Then stands the village with about 100 huts and a complex system of canalization and collection of spring waters, a highly engineered work that used water for sacred rites and daily use.

Nuragic Sanctuary of Gremanu

Località Madau, Fonni, SS389, 08023 Orgosolo NU, Italia

Madau Necropolis

Strada Provinciale 2, 08027 Pratobello, Fonni NU, Italia

Visiting Barbagia and the Fonni area in winter will be an unforgettable experience, a unique winter holiday in Sardinia, a mix of culture, art, winter sports, good food, and good wine. Rediscover the traditions of the authentic and less touristy Sardinia. Fonni and its hospitable inhabitants are waiting for you!