It has been shown that experiencing even just 10 minutes of awe each day can help reduce stress, quiet negative thoughts, and support our overall wellbeing.

So in this post, we’re taking you somewhere so awe-inspiring that your wellbeing reserves won’t just be replenished — they may well overflow.

Welcome to one of the deepest and most spectacular canyons in Europe: Su Gorroppu.

Best times to visit: Spring and Autumn

Entry Fee: €6 for adults, €4 for children

Equipment: Trekking shoes and plenty of water

1. Starting Point

There are several ways to reach the canyon, depending on your preferred level of difficulty and how much time you have.We chose the longer but significantly easier — and cheaper — trekking route, starting from Ponte Sa Barva.

Parking costs €8 per day in a secure car park, which is manned by friendly local staff. From here, the walk to the canyon takes approximately 2 hours, following mostly even terrain. Trekking shoes are highly recommended, especially once you reach the canyon itself, where the rocks can be very slippery. The trail is well signposted throughout, with simple markings on the rocks showing you the way.

And the walk itself is truly beautiful. Even on hot days, much of the trail is sheltered from the sun by the surrounding trees, making it a surprisingly pleasant trek.

You can even take a little detour down to the river for a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water.

2. The Canyon

The final part of the trail is a steep descent into Su Gorroppu, so take it slowly and make sure to use the rope provided for support.

At the entrance, a local guide will give you some safety instructions and general information about the canyon. This will help you decide how far you want to venture in, depending on your energy levels and fitness. Just remember to factor in the 2-hour walk back afterwards!

Su Gorroppu is divided into three main trails:

🟢 Green — the easiest

🟡 Yellow — more challenging

🔴 Red — only accessible with proper equipment and the assistance of a guide

In our honest opinion, the green trail is perfectly manageable for most reasonably fit hikers, although it does require some agility as you navigate the large, uneven and often slippery rocks of the riverbed.

The green trail is also the most scenic part of the canyon, so you certainly won’t feel like you’re missing out if you decide to stop there.

Su Gorroppu truly lives up to its reputation as one of Europe’s most impressive canyons. With walls reaching around 500 metres deep, its sheer scale is something that’s incredibly difficult to put into words.

Some places simply have to be experienced for yourself.

Click here for more tips and inspiration on what to see and do during your holiday on the beautiful island of Sardinia.