Long-lived Barbagia

On the first day you will be taken to a workshop where you will be shown all the phases of the wool supply chain from washing to carding and spinning with traditional Sardinian tools to finish with the dyeing made with local dyeing herbs. In Tiana (NU) in the Museum of Industrial Archeology you can watch the beating of sheep’s wool in the only still functioning fulling mill in Italy. The two large wooden hammers, set in motion by the wheel that exploits the energy from the river water, beat on the fabric until it softens and/or felts it to make blankets, traditional Sardinian costumes and “Saccu”, the waterproof coat used by the Sardinian shepherd over the centuries. From the town of Tiana we will move to Tonara, a town known for the artisanal production of nougat. We will be able to assist in the making of the traditional dessert with tasting and the possibility of purchasing. It will also be possible to visit the workshop of the craftsman who makes Sardinian cowbells by hand following an art and ancient techniques that have been handed down for generations. The cowbells for cows, sheep, hunting dogs have different shapes and sizes and each of them has a different sound which makes them unique pieces.

On the second day you will immerse yourself in nature with a guided excursion in the thick holm oak woods crossed by springs and waterfalls, along the paths of the centenarians to discover the secrets of longevity. You will taste the “shepherd’s cutting board” with local products (cured meats, cheeses, bread and honey) and/or the vegetarian menu based on wild herbs, local vegetables and legumes.

On the third day, in the countryside between Tiana and Teti you will have the opportunity to discover the secrets of beekeeping in a local farm accompanied by a beekeeper. You will then have the opportunity to have a honey and ricotta tasting at the farm as well as to get in touch with the farm animals for an unforgettable experience.