Most likely, along the way you’ll sweat through every single shirt you own, but once you reach the top, short of breath, the only thing you’ll be able to say is an international “wow”—soon followed by an even more universal, jaw-dropping sense of wonder.
Congratulations, you’re 800 meters above sea level, with Sardinia beneath you and all around you!
Arcuentu—“the Arch of the Wind”—is an ancient, imposing basaltic mountain with a silhouette that seems almost human. Born of primordial volcanic eruptions, it forever keeps its head in the clouds, crowned by a fragrant oak grove at its summit.
In the 20th century, this mighty mountain became a pilgrimage site for Brother Lorenzo, who spent one month every year here as a hermit for three decades. He built an altar, a chapel, a well, and even a shelter complete with a bed, fireplace, and pantry for visiting travelers—a feat that seems almost mad, considering the rugged trail that leads to the top. Then again, perhaps not so surprising, given that as far back as the 12th century a castle once stood on the summit, later transformed into a monastery!
And if you’re wondering whether it’s possible to spend the night atop Arcuentu, the answer is of course yes—all it takes is the will to carry what you need for a bivouac, and the reward is the wild hospitality of this breathtaking natural penthouse.
