From a distance, it might almost look like a castle built to protect a royal family, but Sa Macchina Beccia is actually a mining shaft with a unique architectural design. Sa Macchina Beccia (“the old machine”) is the nickname given to the 19th-century Santa Barbara shaft, named after the steam engine once housed inside, now lost. This hike takes you on a journey through the mining history of the Sulcis Iglesiente area, walking past the Asproni Village and reaching the quiet plain of San Giorgio, where the shaft stands.
Trasnport
Travel by your own vehicle to the starting point of the hike
Walking distance
8 km round trip
Elevation gain
177 m
Duration
4 hours, breaks included
Difficulty
Easy*
Availability
Spring, Autumn, Winter
Your journey to discover Sa Macchina Beccia begins in front of the impressive Seddas Moddizzis Laveria, an important witness to the area’s mining activity. From Seddas Moddizzis, you will follow the trail leading to Villaggio Asproni, an historic settlement founded in the 19th century by the mining director Giorgio Asproni.
By booking a guided visit inside the village, you can walk among the ruins of the houses and administrative buildings, experiencing the atmosphere of a time when Sardinia was one of Europe’s main mining hubs.
Leaving the village behind, the trail takes you through scenic landscapes of mediterranean scrub and coastal views along the island’s southwest, until you reach the San Giorgio plain, home to Sa Macchina Beccia. This majestic mining facility, with its distinctive extraction tower, is one of the most iconic symbols of Sardinia’s industrial heritage, allowing you to see and touch history while immersing yourself in its stories.
* Difficulty: Easy. The route has no technical challenges and follows well-marked, easy paths throughout.
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
Mandatory
– Hiking boots
– At least 1.5 liters of water
– Windproof and waterproof jacket
– Packed lunch and snacks
– Technical/sportswear
Recommended
– Sunscreen
– Hat
– Sunglasses
MEETING POINT
Esso gas station at the entrance of Gonnesa
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ETtwnQn4NRzq1p8X6
HIKE STARTING POINT
Serra Scoris Laverie
https://maps.app.goo.gl/toAaR8L3CDLzt1fR9
PLEASE NOTE
– Transportation to the starting point of the hike is not included and is the responsibility of the participants.
– The guide reserves the right to refuse participants who do not have the mandatory equipment.
– The visit to Villaggio Minerario Asproni (€10.00) is not included in the excursion fee. If you wish to visit it, please contact me to book!
BOOKING FORM
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