Austis: Granite Landscapes, Rock Formations and Culture

Austis combines granite landscapes, distinctive rock formations, trails and cultural traces into a destination with several clear highlights. The area is predominantly shaped by granite: chestnut, holm oak and centuries-old oak forests alternate with extensive cork oak groves and Mediterranean maquis. The Austis area preserves several nuraghi, which bear witness to its Nuragic past.

Granite, Forest and Unusual Rock Formations

The rock formations of Austis provide the landscape with distinctive landmarks. Sa Conca de Oppiane is a hollowed-out rock from which you can admire the landscape. Sa Conca de Su Cannizzu is an eagle-like rock formation in the area around Austis. Su Nou Orruendeche lies in the Ghea woodland and consists of two granite blocks lying one on top of the other. It can be entered through a passage at its base, which leads to a natural chamber.

Cycling and Walking Trails

The Austis–Pasa Procu–Sa Perdarba–Sa Pranedda–Borta Melone–Austis MTB route passes through these stops before returning to Austis. The Sa Crabarissa–Austis MTB trail is part of the same network in one direction. The Borta Melone hiking trail, route 511c, complements the cycling routes with a walking option.

Churches, Murals and the Masks of Austis

The cultural features range from religious buildings to local masks. The rural church of Sant’Antonio da Padova was built in 1669 on the Sa Sedda de Basiloccu plateau. The Church of Maria Vergine Assunta houses a wooden crucifix and other works of art. The streets of Austis are decorated with murals by Danilo Carta, Ferdinando Medda, Angelo Lai and other artists from across Sardinia. Sos Colonganos are the masks of the Austis carnival. Every year during the carnival festivities, Sos Colonganos gather in front of a bonfire lit for the occasion, strike the ground with their sticks and jump in place. In doing so, they create an archaic and sombre sound. The masks are distinguished, among other things, by their use of animal bones and strawberry tree wood.

Honey and a Day in the Countryside

Local experiences complement the natural and cultural highlights. The honey experience in Austis ends with a tasting of different types of honey. The experience at an educational farm in Austis includes a day in the countryside among farm animals.

Getting to the Natural Attractions

From the centre of Austis, the route follows Via Lazio and signs to a small clearing in nature. There you can park your car and begin the downhill footpath to the rock. Sa Crabarissa can be reached via a walk of approximately 1 kilometre. When planning a day in Austis, this walk can be scheduled as a separate section.

More destinations: Ottana, Ollolai, Bolotana, Lodine, Meana Sardo, Aritzo, Silanus, Macomer.

To the main travel overview: Nuoro.