Rocky shore in Valle della Luna near Capo Testa, near Santa Teresa di Gallura, Sardinia.

© Sophie Lenoir/Shutterstock

Valle della Luna

Northeastern Sardinia


A few kilometres northwest of Aggius towards Trinita d’Agultu, you reach the Valle della Luna. It’s a surreal and evocative landscape, where huge granite boulders spill across rolling hills and farmland like giants’ marbles. The lookout point on the SP74 commands fantastic views of the surrounding countryside, honeycombed with bizarrely sculpted rocks. The valley is a fantastic place for a bike ride, and the road through here down to the coast is tremendously scenic.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Northeastern Sardinia attractions

1. Museo del Banditismo

3.44 MILES

For a sinister peek at Aggius’ past, stop by the new Museo del Banditismo. Housed in the former magistrate’s court, the museum zooms in on banditry in…

3. Nuraghe Maiori

5.07 MILES

Signposted 2km north of Tempio Pausania along the SS133, this nuraghe is more substantial than the many other ruins that dot the surrounding countryside…

4. Chiesa del Purgatorio

6.11 MILES

This modest 17th-century church, presiding over Piazza del Purgatorio, has an intriguing history. The story goes that a member of the noble Misorro family…

5. Cattedrale di San Pietro

6.13 MILES

This granite cathedral is the town’s imposing centrepiece. All that remains of the 15th-century original is the bell tower and main entrance.

6. Oratorio del Rosario

6.14 MILES

Built in Pisan Romanesque style, this church in the town centre dates to the time of Spanish domination of the island.

7. Fonti di Rinaggiu

6.15 MILES

Since Roman days Tempio has been known for its mineral-rich springs, said to have a curative effect on all who drink from them. Locals still come to fill…

8. Convento degli Scolopi

6.3 MILES

Tempio is replete with churches, and an indication of the town’s former importance lies in the presence of the 17th-century Convento degli Scolopi. It’s…