The Municipality of Olbia has issued a new ordinance banning all climbing and via ferrata activities on Tavolara Island. This decision follows multiple incidents involving unprepared hikers and aims to protect both public safety and the island’s natural heritage.
Reasons for the Climbing Ban
- Safety Risks: The island has witnessed several accidents due to climbers lacking proper experience and equipment. The most recent incident occurred on May 3, when a hiker was injured on the “Ferrata degli Angeli,” necessitating a complex rescue operation involving multiple emergency services.
- Geological Hazards: Studies have identified high to very high landslide risks (Hg3 and Hg4) across Tavolara’s slopes, with active landslides and general susceptibility to such phenomena.
- Environmental Protection: The ordinance also aims to preserve the island’s natural and cultural heritage from potential damage caused by unregulated climbing activities.
Exceptions and Enforcement of the Tavolara Island Climbing Ban
Climbing activities are now prohibited, except for those conducted by certified mountain guides with specialization in sport climbing, and solely for scientific or study purposes. Violators may face fines ranging from €25 to €500.
Community Response
The ban has sparked reactions from local environmental guides and tourism operators, who express concerns about the impact on their activities and are considering legal actions.
Exploring Tavolara Island
Tavolara Island, a striking limestone massif rising sharply from the Tyrrhenian Sea, is located off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, Italy. Measuring approximately 5 kilometers in length and 1 kilometer in width, the island’s most prominent feature is Monte Cannone, its highest peak at 565 meters above sea level. The island’s dramatic cliffs and unique topography have long captivated visitors, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and opportunities for adventure.
Historical Significance
Historically known as Hermea, Tavolara has been the subject of various legends and historical accounts. One notable tale involves Pope Pontian, who is said to have died on the island following his exile in 235 AD. In the 19th century, the island gained attention when Giuseppe Bertoleoni declared himself king, establishing the “Kingdom of Tavolara.” This micronation, though never officially recognized, has been maintained by the Bertoleoni family for generations, adding a layer of cultural richness to the island’s narrative.
Natural Environment
Tavolara is part of the Tavolara-Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area, established in 1997 to preserve the region’s rich biodiversity. The island’s unique ecosystem includes endemic plant species like the thorny knapweed (Centaurea horrida) and serves as a habitat for various marine life, including bottlenose dolphins and the rare giant clam (Pinna nobilis). The surrounding waters are renowned for their clarity, making them a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Hiking and Climbing Opportunities
Before the recent ordinance, Tavolara was a sought-after destination for hikers and climbers. The trek to Punta Cannone, the island’s summit, is known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views. The route includes steep, uneven paths and a section of via ferrata—a protected climbing route equipped with steel cables and metal steps. This combination of hiking and climbing offered adventurers a unique experience, blending physical exertion with the reward of panoramic vistas over the Sardinian coastline.
The Via Ferrata degli Angeli is a challenging and scenic route ascending the southern ridge of Tavolara Island, offering climbers a unique blend of adventure and panoramic views. The journey begins with a 30-minute approach to the base of the route. The ferrata itself spans approximately 600 meters of vertical gain, with the entire itinerary covering around 6.7 kilometers and taking about 4 hours to complete.
The ascent features a mix of scrambling sections and protected climbs secured by steel cables. Early in the route, climbers encounter the “iscala e fustes,” a traditional juniper ladder historically used by Sardinian shepherds. As the path progresses, it becomes more exposed, with vertical and overhanging segments requiring both physical strength and mental fortitude. Approximately two-thirds up, the protected section concludes, leading to a 20-minute trek across rugged terrain toward the summit.
Upon reaching the top, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Sardinian coastline and surrounding islands. The descent offers two options: rappelling down two consecutive drops of 55 and 35 meters or continuing along the ridge to descend via the “Via Ferrata Normale.”
Access and Restrictions
Access to Tavolara is typically via boat from Porto San Paolo, a small fishing village on the Sardinian mainland. However, it’s important to note that a significant portion of the island is restricted due to the presence of a NATO radiogoniometric station established in 1962. This military installation occupies the eastern half of the island, limiting public access to certain areas.
Alternative Activities
While climbing activities are currently restricted, visitors can still enjoy the island’s natural beauty through guided boat tours, snorkeling, and exploring its rich marine life. The surrounding waters are ideal for diving, offering opportunities to observe diverse marine species and underwater landscapes.
For those interested in hiking, alternative routes that do not involve climbing are available, allowing visitors to experience the island’s unique flora and fauna while adhering to the new regulations.
For more information on the ordinance, visit the Comune di Olbia’s official website.
Sardinia offers a wealth of via ferrata routes and sea cliff climbing opportunities for adventurers of all levels. Beyond the renowned Via Ferrata degli Angeli on Tavolara Island, climbers can explore routes like the Via Ferrata del Cabirol near Alghero, which traverses limestone cliffs overlooking the sea, providing breathtaking views and a moderate challenge.
For those seeking a unique experience, the Via Ferrata Pan di Zucchero near Masua ascends the highest sea stack in Europe, offering a thrilling climb directly from the Mediterranean waters to the summit. Additionally, the Via Ferrata di Plumare is considered one of the most challenging in Sardinia, demanding physical fitness and technical skills.
Sardinia’s diverse climbing options, from coastal routes to inland adventures, make it a premier destination for via ferrata enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, the island’s varied terrain and stunning landscapes offer unforgettable experiences.
Read our articles:
https://6bpump.com/easy-breath-taking-multipitch-climbs-on-the-cliffs-of-capo-caccia/
https://6bpump.com/signorina-fantasia-climbing-above-the-sea-in-sardinia/
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