Porto Torres: Monte d’Accoddi & Su Crucifissu Mannu

Porto Torres: Monte d’Accoddi & Su Crucifissu Mannu

Exploring Sardinia’s archaeological sites is a must for history enthusiasts and curious travelers, and this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s Neolithic past. Although it’s a short experience—just 2.5 hours—it packs a punch with two significant sites and an engaging guide who brings the stories to life.

We particularly love the opportunity to walk around a rare Sardinian ziqqurat at Monte d’Accoddi, enjoy stunning natural scenery, and learn about the significance of Su Crucifissu Mannu’s necropolis. The downside? The tour doesn’t include the entrance fee to Monte d’Accoddi, so budget an extra €5. It’s best suited for those interested in archaeology, family groups, or anyone wanting a meaningful, straightforward cultural outing.

If you’re after a compact, educational experience that combines history, scenic views, and a touch of adventure, this tour is a worthy consideration.

Good To Know

• Authentic archaeological sites offer a rare look at Sardinia’s Neolithic past.
• Guided explanations provide context that enriches the visit.
• Accessible for families and suitable for children interested in history.
• Natural landscape surrounds both sites, providing scenic backdrops.
• Flexible schedule with options Tuesday to Saturday, making planning easier.
• Extra cost for entry to Monte d’Accoddi; worth considering for full access.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Honest Review of the Sardinian Archaeological Tour

What Is Included and How It Works

This tour, operated by Escursì, focuses on two significant archaeological sites located in Sardinia’s north-west near Porto Torres. Priced at $41 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to access some of the island’s ancient treasures. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours, featuring a guided walk through Monte d’Accoddi and Su Crucifissu Mannu, with the guide explaining the significance of each site.

You meet at the parking lot of Monte d’Accoddi, where ample parking makes logistics straightforward. The guide, speaking Italian, offers insights into the sites’ history, architecture, and archaeological importance. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it a convenient half-day activity.

What Makes Monte d’Accoddi Unique?

Monte d’Accoddi is often described as Sardinia’s answer to a ziqqurat, a step pyramid more common in Mesopotamian architecture. We loved the way the guide explained its purpose and construction, emphasizing how it was used thousands of years ago, around 4,000-3,500 BC. Visitors can walk around the structure, which is surprisingly well-preserved, gaining a tangible sense of ancient engineering.

A reviewer noted, “The site has a magical aura, and the guide’s storytelling made me feel connected to the people who built it.” Its impressive scale and unusual form make Monte d’Accoddi a standout in the Mediterranean archaeological scene.

Discovering Su Crucifissu Mannu

Just a few kilometers from Monte d’Accoddi, Su Crucifissu Mannu is a large necropolis dating back to the same period. The site contains numerous tombs and artifacts that reveal burial practices and spiritual beliefs of Sardinia’s earliest inhabitants.

Visitors will appreciate the open landscape, which adds to the sense of stepping back in time. The guide points out interesting details, like the layout of the tombs, and shares stories of the ancient community that once thrived there. One reviewer described the site as “a quiet but powerful place, where history feels almost tangible.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Scenic Environment and Practical Aspects

Surrounded by Sardinia’s characteristic natural beauty, both sites offer more than just archaeology—they’re places where landscape and history merge. The views of rolling hills and open skies enhance the experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy scenic settings.

Since the sites are only a few kilometers apart, travelers must arrange their own transportation between them, adding a layer of independence to the tour. The route is paved and easy to navigate, suitable for most visitors but not recommended for those with mobility challenges.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, families with children, or anyone curious about Sardinia’s ancient past. The group size is manageable, and the stories shared by the guide make the sites accessible even for those new to archaeology.

However, those seeking a more extensive archaeological adventure or looking for included entrance tickets should consider additional expenses or longer tours.

The Verdict on Value

At $41, the price tag is reasonable for a guided cultural experience. The extra €5 for entry to Monte d’Accoddi is an additional cost but a worthwhile investment for full access. The small group format and expert guidance mean visitors gain more than just photos—they gain understanding.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid overview of Sardinia’s Neolithic sites in a compact, accessible package. It’s particularly worthwhile for travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, engaging storytelling, and a touch of authentic history.

While the tour doesn’t include all entrance fees or extensive exploration, its affordability and quality make it a good choice for a half-day cultural break. Perfect for families, first-time visitors to Sardinia, or history enthusiasts looking for a meaningful yet manageable experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you love learning about ancient civilizations, enjoy scenic outdoor settings, or travel with kids interested in history, this tour fits your needs well. It provides a friendly, informative, and visually appealing way to connect with Sardinia’s prehistoric past.

It’s less suitable if you require detailed archaeological exploration or need wheelchair accessibility, as participants need to manage their own transportation between sites and the terrain is uneven in parts.

FAQ

Is transportation between Monte d’Accoddi and Su Crucifissu Mannu included?
No, you will need to arrange their own car to travel the 5 km route between the two sites, which is paved and manageable.

What is the cost for entrance tickets?
The guide mentions an extra €5 fee for access to Monte d’Accoddi, payable on site.

What is the tour schedule?
It runs Tuesday to Friday at 16:30, and Saturday at 09:30 and 15:30, allowing some flexibility depending on your plans.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s described as ideal for families and children, with stories and sites that captivate all ages.

Is there a need for special clothing or equipment?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, snacks, and casual clothes are recommended for the outdoor sites.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2.5 hours, offering a concise but informative experience.

Are there any language restrictions?
The tour is conducted in Italian, so some familiarity with the language or a translation app might help.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.

To sum it up, this tour blends archaeology, natural beauty, and engaging storytelling into a worthwhile experience for those wanting to uncover Sardinia’s ancient roots without overcommitting. It’s especially commendable for families and curious travelers eager to explore history in a scenic setting, making it a memorable, value-packed outing.

You can check if your dates are available here: