THE SUMMIT OF TAVOLARA

Punta Cannone is the highest peak on Tavolara Island. Rising to 564/565 metres, it offers breathtaking views over the Gallura coastline and, on clear days, all the way to the southern shores of Corsica.

Reaching the summit requires following an EEA (Equipped Hiking Trail) that starts from Bocca del Cannone—the plateau also known as the Pratone—and leads to the highest point of the island.

The equipped section is graded F (Easy) and is suitable even for hikers with little or no previous via ferrata experience, provided they are in excellent physical condition and comfortable with heights and exposed terrain.

Technical Information

• Distance: 7 km
• Elevation gain: 650 m

The Route

The hike begins at Spalmatore di Terra Beach, located on the western side of Tavolara Island. From here, the trail follows the coastline before climbing steadily until it joins the path leading towards Punta della Mandria.

Before reaching the headland, you'll pass the island's historic lime kilns, a reminder of Tavolara's past. From here, the trail climbs for about an hour before reaching the Lower Ledge, where fixed ropes and the characteristic Scala e Fuste ("Ladder and Barrels") help hikers negotiate this fascinating section.

Beyond this point, the trail continues across the mountainside with a gentler ascent towards the north-west, eventually reaching Bocca del Cannone.

From here, hikers can choose between two equipped routes:

• a shorter via ferrata featuring two brief equipped sections;
• a longer alternative with approximately 100 metres of equipped climbing.

Both routes lead to the spectacular summit ridge, where one of Sardinia's most extraordinary panoramas unfolds. The view stretches across the Gallura coastline and, on clear days, reaches as far as Corsica and beyond.

From the saddle where the two routes rejoin, it takes just 10 minutes to reach Punta Cannone (565 m), the iconic summit of Tavolara.

Descent

The descent generally follows the same route back. Depending on the group's ability and the trail conditions, the guide may choose a slightly different return via the Punta della Mandria variant.

An unforgettable adventure where sea and mountains, rock and sky come together, leading you to the summit of one of the most spectacular islands in the Mediterranean.

Everything you need to know to make the most of your Tavolara experience: meeting times, prices, required equipment and what's included. Plan your adventure and book your excursion today!

We are here to help with information, bookings and everything you need to plan your Tavolara experience.

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