Ogliastra · Provincia dell'Ogliastra

Things to do in Elini

Things to do in Elini, Sardinia: a tiny Ogliastra village with a Trenino Verde station, Carmine park, a 17th-century sanctuary and nuraghi.

All Adventure and sport Culture and traditions Families and kids Food and wine Nature and hiking Sea Wellness

We are gathering the first experiences for this area. Check back soon, or tell us about an operator you know.

Elini is one of the smallest villages in Ogliastra: just over 500 people at around 470 metres, between the sea and the Gennargentu, on the road linking Ilbono and Arzana. It is a peaceful place surrounded by springs, holm oaks, ancient olive trees and vineyards. The most scenic way to arrive is the Trenino Verde, which stops right in the village centre. It suits you if you want quiet, views and short nature walks.

What to see in Elini

The Trenino Verde station

The old 19th-century station, built from granite blocks, stands in the heart of the village and is part of its charm.

San Gavino Martire church

The parish church in the old centre was built in the 20th century on a 16th-century structure.

Carmine park

In the upper village, Carmine park offers wide views, paths among holm oaks, year-round springs and the ruins of two nuraghi (Bronze Age stone towers). Here stands the 17th-century sanctuary of the Madonna del Monte Carmelo.

Things to do in Elini

The best experience is a ride on the Trenino Verde, the Mandas–Arbatax tourist line running mainly from spring to autumn through limestone landscapes and woods. In the village you can walk in Carmine park and through olive groves and vines; in half an hour you reach the sea at Tortolì or the Gennargentu mountains. Discover the experiences offered by local operators just below.

History

The area has been inhabited since the Neolithic and the Nuragic age. In the Middle Ages Elini belonged to the Giudicato of Cagliari; it then passed to Pisa and to the Aragonese, who included it in the County of Quirra. It was freed from feudal rule in 1839 and was merged with Ilbono until 1958.

What to eat and buy

The fertile land produces olives, grapes and fruit. On the table you will find Ogliastra dishes: potato and cheese culurgionis, roast meats, cheeses, local olive oil and wine.

Festivals and traditions

San Gavino Martire, May: the patron saint's feast.
July festival: the most heartfelt, with three days of celebrations and processions.

Nearby

Ilbono: the Scerì archaeological park.
Arzana and the Gennargentu.
Lanusei: the cathedral and Seleni wood.
Tortolì-Arbatax: beaches and red rocks.

Getting there and when to go

Drive to Elini on the provincial road between Ilbono and Arzana, or arrive by Trenino Verde. Arbatax port and Tortolì airport are about 25 minutes away; Cagliari about two hours. Spring and summer are best for the train and walks.