Distance: 17.70 km
time: 9:04:32
min/max elev.: 190 m/1001 m
elev. gain/loss: 1156 m/-1154 m

I'd planned this route to find a new path on the south side of Monte Tamara from Nuxis that would take me on a loop around the mountain, connecting some of my earlier explorations. I left the village to the SE and was swiftly following a footpath up the mountain side, accompanied by the aroma of wild herbs and the jingle of sheep’s bells.

The route, that I had scouted on Google Earth, was blocked by fences and scrub in places, but I found a way through, though with some difficulty and a few scratches. Found a mantis!. I arrived at the familiar picnic spot, Su Tippu, for a quick lunch before pushing up towards Punta su Fixi. I was surprised and amused to find an abandoned Fiat at 860m (39° 8'12.98"N, 8°46'59.97"E) that must have been there for a few decades. I reached the highest point of the hike, Punta su Fixi (1001m), no view, then followed the top of the ridge looping back towards the summit of Monte Tamara. I briefly joined a path I’d last trod five years previously, then split off towards the peak and found Jesus! A large carved wooden crucifix, that I had somehow missed on my previous excursion. There are views to Monte Nieddu and the sea, but it was quite hazy that day. I then passed a hunters’ refuge before arriving at the summit of Monte Tamara (848m), again with commanding views across the valley below.

Then the decent back to Nuxis. Thankfully I knew to expect a spring on the way as it had been a very warm day for October, 25C, and my canteen was almost out. I passed an ingenious slide for loggers made of pipe sections then was back on my well acquainted track above Nuxis. The river, usually a trickle, was this time a torrent due to the recent storms. A very satisfying excursion.

The next day I took my daughter up to the antenna above the village for her first ‘hiking experience’ (distance: 4.435 km, time: 2:06:03)