Imagine wandering through Sardinia’s sun-drenched countryside, learning how local herbs have been used for generations to boost health and spirit. That’s exactly what this 2-hour experience offers—an authentic peek into Sardinian folk medicine led by Ramona, a passionate herbalist with deep roots in local traditions. The tour balances beautiful scenery, practical knowledge, and a warm, personal touch that makes it stand out.
What caught my eye? First, I love how Ramona makes herbalism accessible—she isn’t just rattling off Latin names but sharing stories and practical tips that make the plants come alive. Second, the chance to gather wild herbs in a serene landscape, then turn them into infused oils or herbs for your own use, is rare and valuable. But, a word of caution: if you’re hoping for a fast-paced herbal foraging tour with extensive botanical detail, this is more about enjoying the moment and learning slowly.
A potential consideration? The experience is centered around a gentle, unhurried walk—so don’t expect a high-energy hike or a large group. It’s a cozy, private outing that suits anyone wanting a peaceful connection to nature. Keep in mind the timing—mornings or late afternoons are best in summer to avoid the heat and fully enjoy the walk.
Key points / Takeaways
Authentic Sardinian traditions: The tour connects you directly with centuries-old folk medicine practices.
Expert guide Ramona: Her warmth and knowledge make the experience engaging and insightful.
Beautiful scenery: You’ll explore vineyards, olive groves, and citrus orchards—perfect for nature lovers.
Hands-on gathering: Learn how to identify and harvest wild herbs used for healing and rituals.
Practical skills: Discover how to make infused oils and herbal bundles (mazzetti) you can take home.
Local stories: Ramona shares tales that breathe life into the plants and their uses, creating a memorable cultural experience.
An Introduction to the Heart of Sardinia’s Herbal Wisdom
This experience, offered at “In Our Garden” near Cagliari, is perfect for those curious about Sardinia’s lesser-known treasures—its plants and traditional healing methods. The setting is a charming bio-agritourism farm, surrounded by vineyards, orange groves, and almond trees, offering a peaceful backdrop that complements the slow-paced walk. Ramona, the guide, combines her background as a psychologist with her passion for herbalism, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
What makes this tour special? For starters, it’s designed to be accessible, not a botanical intensive. As Valentina shares, “Ramona told us a lot of interesting things about traditional Sardinian officinal plants and her project. The landscapes and the nature are amazing.” You’ll appreciate the blend of storytelling and practical advice, especially if you’re interested in how herbs are used in daily life, rituals, and healing.
Susanne highlights Ramona’s genuine enthusiasm: “Her warmth and passion are truly wonderful. We gathered impressions with our eyes and noses, then harvested herbs we later tasted together.” The emphasis on sensory engagement—smelling, touching, tasting—turns this into a full-bodied experience rather than just a walk.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Quartu Sant Elena.
How the Tour Is Structured and What to Expect
The journey begins with a gentle stroll through the countryside, focusing on identifying local wild herbs used in Sardinian folk medicine. Ramona’s approach is relaxed, making it easy for anyone, regardless of botanical expertise, to follow along. She shares stories about traditional uses, some dating back centuries, adding cultural depth to the natural beauty.
What herbs might you find? Though specifics aren’t listed, the environment suggests common Sardinian plants like wild lavender, rosemary, thyme, and possibly some edible greens. You’ll learn how these herbs aren’t just for cooking—they’re also employed in rituals, remedies, and emotional healing.
A highlight for many is the chance to gather herbs directly from the wild—an activity that romanticizes rural life and offers a tangible connection to Sardinia’s natural landscape. Ramona teaches how to transform these into infused oils and smudge sticks, practical skills that add value beyond the tour.
The experience includes a relaxing merenda—a traditional Sardinian snack—paired with freshly brewed herbal tea. It’s a moment to sit back, savor the flavors, and reflect on what you’ve learned. A charming bonus is the handmade bundle of wild lavender (mazzetti), which you get to take home as a fragrant reminder of your day.
What Makes Ramona an Outstanding Guide
Ramona’s background is as fascinating as her stories. After more than 30 years working as an organizational psychologist, she traded that life for one rooted in sustainable local development, art, and folk traditions. She’s deeply passionate about slow living, permaculture, and social innovation, making her a perfect guide for those looking for meaningful, authentic experiences. Her love for Sardinia’s landscape and traditions shines through, creating a genuine connection with her guests.
Her warmth and receptiveness are frequently mentioned in reviews, like Susanne’s comment: “Ramona’s warmth and passion for the knowledge of useful and medicinal plants are truly wonderful.” Her ability to share her knowledge in an accessible, friendly way makes the experience both educational and deeply personal.
The Landscape and Its Role in the Experience
The landscapes you’ll explore are quintessential Sardinia—rolling hills, citrus groves, and olive orchards. These natural surroundings aren’t just pretty backdrops; they’re a vital part of the story. Ramona explains how many of the herbs grow spontaneously in these areas, and gathering them connects you to the land’s resilience.
The walk lasts about two hours, making it manageable for most fitness levels while allowing ample time to observe, listen, and participate. During summer, booking in the early morning or late afternoon helps escape the heat and enjoy cooler, more comfortable conditions.
Practicalities and Logistics
Getting to the farm from Cagliari is straightforward and eco-friendly. You’ll take bus line PF from Cagliari train station, heading toward Terra Mala, and disembark at a stop near Marina Residenza. From there, a short drive—about 5-10 minutes—brings you to “In Our Garden.” The tour can be booked as a private group, ensuring a personalized experience, and you can reserve with the option to pay later, adding flexibility.
The experience costs a reasonable amount considering the personal guidance, the cultural insights, and the takeaway items like the herbal bundles. It’s a beautiful way to spend a morning or afternoon, especially if you love nature, food, or traditional medicine.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate slow, meaningful encounters with nature and culture. If you’re interested in herbal medicine, sustainability, or small-group activities that emphasize local traditions, you’ll find this especially rewarding. It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers seeking authenticity, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape into Sardinia’s countryside.
Keep in mind it’s a relaxed pace—great for those who enjoy gentle walks and stories over strenuous hikes. If you’re short on time but want a genuine taste of Sardinian life beyond beaches and ruins, this tour fits the bill.
Overall Value and Final Thoughts
Considering its intimate size, knowledgeable guide, and focus on hands-on learning, this tour offers excellent value. You’re not just observing; you’re actively participating in collecting and understanding plants that have been part of Sardinian life for centuries. The inclusion of the herbal tea and snack, plus the takeaway lavender bundle, makes it feel like a full, thoughtful experience rather than a quick stroll.
The reviews confirm that this isn’t a typical tourist trap. Valentina calls it “an experience to see another side of Sardinia,” and others praise Ramona’s warmth and depth of knowledge. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe, and truly connect with the land and traditions.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about two hours, making it a manageable and relaxed outing.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as it’s a gentle walk designed to connect with nature at a leisurely pace.
Can I join without prior botanical knowledge?
Absolutely. Ramona’s approach is friendly and accessible, focusing on stories and practical tips.
How do I get there from Cagliari?
Take bus line PF from the train station to Marina Residenza, then a short drive to “In Our Garden.”
Is it possible to cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.
What’s included in the experience?
Guided walk, herbal gathering, making infused oils, a herbal tea, a Sardinian snack, and a lavender bundle to take home.
Is this experience private?
Yes, it’s offered as a private group, ensuring a personalized experience.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor exploration are recommended.
Are children or non-enthusiasts welcomed?
While suitable for most, this tour is best suited for those interested in nature, herbs, and cultural traditions.
To sum it up, if you’re looking for a peaceful, enriching way to explore Sardinia beyond its beaches, this herbal walk with Ramona offers genuine insights into local traditions and the natural world. It’s perfect for slow travelers, curious minds, and those longing for a touch of authenticity. So, grab your hat, bring your enthusiasm, and prepare for a memorable stroll into Sardinia’s herbal past.