Stage 14 – from San Benedetto to Domusnovas-Musei

Since the nearly 4.5 kilometers of the old railway route—constructed at the end of the 19th century on the slopes of these limestone-dolomite mountains to transport minerals—are no longer passable, we walk along the valley floor until we reach the forest. A dirt road or path leads us to Case Marganai, set in a beautiful mountain landscape where you can visit the Linasia Garden. Mining activities have left important traces here, surrounded by lush nature. You will travel nearly 800 meters underground, crossing from north to south through the second largest traversable karst cavity in Europe—once accessible to trucks, now open only to pedestrians, horseback riders, and cyclists. The Nuragic site of Sa Domu ’e S’Orku is also remarkable. The steep descents from Case Marganai, along the switchbacks of the mule tracks, require particular attention.

NOTICE: To cross the Grotta di San Giovanni, you must present yourself at the north entrance, ring the bell, and identify yourself as a CMSB pilgrim; a staff member will come to open the gate. For opening hours, visit www.grottasangiovanni.com. There is an entrance fee of 5 euros for the crossing; alternatively, there is a variant route available outside the cave.