Named after the spring water fountains that dot the area, Fonni is the highest-altitude town on the island of Sardinia. It is nestled amidst picturesque chestnut woods near the winter sports hub of Bruncu Spina and is famed for its annual carnival featuring traditional Barbagia masks.
Things to do in Fonni
One of Fonni’s most important religious landmarks is the Sanctuary of the Vergine dei Martiri, which was originally established in the early 17th century. Its main basilica is topped by an octagonal dome that is beautifully painted with imagery by Pietro Antonio Are. Also of note are the Rococo-style oratory and the convent, which houses a treasured collection of artworks.
Occupying a 19th-century manor house in the heart of Fonni is the Museum of Pastoral Culture, which tells the story of rural life in Sardinia in times gone by. In addition to learning about the day-to-day existence of nomadic shepherds and their families, you can get up close to traditional masks worn during the Barbagia Carnival. Sounds from the Sardinian countryside can be experienced in the upper-floor gallery.
If you’re visiting in the winter months, you can hit the downhill trails of Bruncu Spina Mountain, which rises to the south of Fonni. Once the snow melts, its trails transform into hiking routes that offer magnificent views across the Gennargentu Range. Due to its central location, you can see all the way to Sardinia’s coastline, as well as to Corsica on a clear day.
Getting around Fonni
Fonni is around two hours’ drive from Sassari and 1.5 hours from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Regular buses connect to Fonni and the town is compact enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of exploring the surrounding region.