Cascata Su Spistiddadroxiu

An idyllic reservoir, one of the highest waterfalls in Sardinia, a cozy refuge, a track that runs for kilometers through a dried-up stream bed - these are the details of an off-road route that is worth it. Because it is extremely demanding for drivers and is a real visual highlight. Also because you can recover from the exertions of the journey in a cool pool of water.

The Lago die Medau Zimirilis lies in the heart of Sardinia in the Gennargentu Mountains. Against its backdrop of rolling hills and lush vegetation, it is a real eye-catcher. As the crow flies, about a kilometer from the lake, the start of today's tour is on the SS 293. Like most off-road routes in Sardinia, it also starts relatively harmlessly - a wide gravel track, more of an agricultural road, moderate gradient. Right through dense deciduous forest. The odd bend creeps in. But after just a few kilometers the fun is over, the matter becomes a challenge for man and machine. The gravel ist getting coarser, the path narrower, the stones become larger. Deep gullies and furrows have to be overcome.

The first hill, a bit downhill, then the next climb. And it's tough: the dry riverbed of the Rio Camboni winds steeply uphill, peppered with coarse stones and rocks. Anyone who doesn't have decent ground clearance and perfect control of their vehicle is in trouble. Turning with a four-wheel drive is impossible, even with an enduro it's a feat of strength. The rock walls rise steeply to the left and right of the river, which carries water in winter.

The last two kilometers to the waterfall are a little less difficult downhill above the stream. Past the Barracca Sassa refuge, we reach an open area to stop and turn. A few meters on foot, then we are standing in front of the waterfall with its 30 meter drop and its water basin. The jump in is the reward for the strenuous journey. Now take a deep breath, because the way back is about to begin.