
Montevecchio
Montevecchio is a mining town with a few hundred inhabitants. It is
situated in the south west of Sardinia, in an area of the island where
woods, coastline and wild mountains
form a fascinating, natural backdrop.
The
mineral deposit was rich in lead and zinc and was one of the most important
in Europe until the 1960s. It is one of the eight sites which make up
the Sardinian Geo-mineral Park, the only park of its kind which UNESCO
has defined as being part of Man's cultural patrimony.
The entire Montevecchio territory is characterised by its extraordinary
natural beauty.
- Piscinas: considered by T.C.I. and the
"Lega Ambiente" (Environment Association) as one of the most
beautiful beaches in Italy. It is about 6 km long and is surrounded
by majestic sand dunes rising up over 50 m high, making it the largest
desert system in Europe.
- Monte Arcuentu: near Montevecchio. The rock
mass of Monte Arcuentu (785 m above sea level) is dominated by the enchanting
ruins of a castle.
There
are numerous fascinating itineraries for nature lovers, which take them
along paths immersed in the greenery of the Mediterannean scrub, with
its unmistakable fragrances of myrtle, strawberries and broom.
In the shade of the secular holm-oak trees visitors may also catch sight
of the many Sardinian deer which populate the mining area.
People staying in Montevecchio must not miss a trip to the towns of
Guspini and Arbus.
The area is noted for its food and wine specialities, in particular
for the production of honey, especially bitter honey which comes from
strawberry flower nectar. Visitors must also not miss the annual Honey
Festival which is held in Montevecchio in the last few days in August.
|