4.5
(68)
211
hikers
Lake Baratz Loop Trail
01:47
6.79km
50m
Hiking
This easy 4.2-mile circular hike around Lake Baratz offers panoramic views, shaded forests, and rich biodiversity in Sardinia.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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930 m
Lake Baratz
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
5.98 km
Inlets of Lake Baratz
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.79 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.18 km
614 m
Surfaces
6.73 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 7 May
23°C
13°C
82 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike the Tour of Lake Baratz – circular walk?
The Tour of Lake Baratz circular walk typically takes around 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete. This is based on an average hiking pace for the 6.8 km (4.2 miles) distance.
Is the Tour of Lake Baratz circular walk suitable for beginners?
Yes, this trail is generally considered an easy hike suitable for most fitness levels. However, some sections can be steep, and downhill parts might have deep furrows, especially after rain. Sturdy shoes are recommended for comfort and stability.
What is the terrain like on the Tour of Lake Baratz circular walk?
The trail largely follows a rough track, with smaller sections on forest tracks and a cart road. You'll find much of the path shaded by a thick pine forest, eucalyptus, and holm oak trees, offering varied scenery throughout.
What wildlife and plants can I see along the way?
The area is rich in biodiversity. You might spot various bird species like mallards, coots, purple herons, and kingfishers, especially from sighting points around the lake. The Mediterranean flora includes juniper, strawberry trees, heather, rosemary, cistus, and wild orchids, which are particularly abundant in spring.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
Spring is an excellent time to visit, as the wild orchids are in full bloom, adding vibrant color to the landscape. The shaded sections also make it pleasant during warmer months, but always check the weather forecast.
What can I see along the route?
You'll enjoy panoramic views of Lake Baratz, Sardinia's only natural freshwater lake, and its Inlets of Lake Baratz. The trail passes through diverse ecosystems, including pine forests, reeds, cattail thickets, and tamarisk trees. There's also a rest area with tables and benches near the Center for Environmental Education (CEAS).
Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, the route fully encompasses the 'Sentiero del Lago' trail. It also briefly intersects with sections of the 'Sentiero della Duna' and 'strada vicinale Puddighinu'.
Is the Tour of Lake Baratz circular walk dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. You can bring your dog along to enjoy the walk, but please ensure they are kept on a leash to protect the local wildlife and for the safety of other hikers.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the trail or the park?
No, access to Lake Baratz and the circular trail is free. The area is part of the Lago di Baratz - Porto Ferro Special Area of Conservation, but there are no entrance fees or permits required for hiking.
Where can I park for the Tour of Lake Baratz circular walk?
There is a large, free parking lot available directly at Lake Baratz, making trailhead access very convenient.
Are there any facilities or services available near the lake?
Yes, at the end of the trail, near the parking area, you'll find the Center for Environmental Education (CEAS). They manage the trail, can provide further information, and offer guided explorations. There's also a rest area with tables and benches.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
The route around Lake Baratz is not only characterized by its diverse natural scenery, but also by the fact that there is no admission charge and no locked gates (as is often the case here in the Alghero area). The starting point is a large parking lot by the lake, and then the route continues along fairly good paths, sometimes closer to the lake, sometimes further away, through diverse natural scenery. A beautiful two-hour circular route.
Today we drove to the other side of the island near Alghero for a hike around what is said to be the only freshwater lake on the island. We stop at a nice little snack bar. There we stock up on water and fruit and start the tour. It starts on soft forest trails but goes up and down quite a bit. Not much can be seen of the lake yet. That changes from the second half of the tour. Now there are great views. Unfortunately, the Lago has also suffered from the drought and its banks are very muddy in places. We continue on paths on which the storms of the last few years have hit quite hard. Many trees were blown down and now lie across the path. In addition, Ms. P. from B. encounters a harmless Sardinian corn snake, but she is very frightened. At the end of the tour we find that the diner offers a very good lunch and enjoy salad, burgers and ice-cold cola.