Profile

Patricia Pirisi is a certified Environmental Hiking Guide (AIGAE) and an active collaborator of Coolvoyage Destinations within several Erasmus+ projects. Her work combines environmental expertise, territorial knowledge, and a strong educational approach, making her a key figure in our Sardinian activities.

She guides participants through landscapes not as “destinations”, but as living ecosystems with history, fragility, and identity.

Discovering Sulcis-Iglesiente: A Journey Through History and Nature

I depart from the Olbia station, the air warm, and the excitement of a new journey fills me. My destination is Iglesias, and although the journey promises to be long, about five hours, I can enjoy the view unfolding outside the window. The beauty of Sardinia, with its green hills and flower-filled fields, makes every moment of the journey special.

The first train takes me from Olbia to San Gavino; despite the general discontent over the train strike, the Trenitalia staff is incredibly kind. As soon as they receive the news that we won’t be stopping halfway across Sardinia, but each of us can continue to our own destinations, they don’t hesitate to share this with all of us, reassuring us.

Arriving in San Gavino, I discover that the train I booked has been suspended. Fortunately, the next one leaves just ten minutes later. Once again, the staff guides us, providing us with helpful information about the bus schedule. I feel lucky: I arrive at the station at 6:04 PM, and the bus departs at 6:07 PM. Perfect timing!

The bus is driven by a kind and smiling driver, which makes the journey even more pleasant. As we travel the final stretch to our destination, the landscapes alternate, with green hills and the scents of the Mediterranean scrub. Finally, at 7:10 PM, we arrive in Iglesias.

The town welcomes me with its charm. The narrow streets are on a human scale, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. I head to Francesca’s B&B, an older but charming house. Francesca is thoughtful and attentive, making sure her guests lack nothing. Her hospitality makes the stay even more special.

For dinner, I decide to go to the Zenith. Here, I am welcomed as if I were a lifelong customer. The restaurant has an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff is warm and helpful. The dinner is excellent: traditional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, every bite a delight.
As I savor dessert, I realize that this evening, with its mix of good food and human warmth, is the perfect end to a busy day.

Tomorrow we begin the first stage of the Santa Barbara Mining Trail, and I can’t wait to discover the wonders of this historical and cultural journey that awaits me.

What Patricia Does

Patricia designs and leads outdoor experiences that reveal the deeper layers of Sardinia’s natural heritage. Her excursions are not simple walks: they are interpretative journeys through geology, biodiversity, local culture, and environmental awareness.

A typical example of her work includes:

1. panoramic routes
2. interpretation of endemic flora and ancient rural landscapes
3. reading of geological formations and natural phenomena
4. exploration of wild areas such as S’Iscala ’e su Tassu, Punta Su Pizzu, and Punta Cupetti
5. educational stops focused on biodiversity, water sources, and ecological balance
6. safe, structured hiking with clear technical information and responsible practices

Her excursions often integrate community elements — such as local food experiences — reinforcing the connection between territory, culture, and people.

Technical Expertise

Patricia provides participants with clear, essential guidance:

• route length, elevation gain, and difficulty
• terrain type and safety considerations
• environmental conditions and seasonal variations
• equipment requirements (water, sun protection, trekking shoes, etc.)

Her approach is practical, responsible, and aligned with sustainable outdoor ethics.

Role in Erasmus+ Projects

Within Erasmus+, Patricia contributes to:

• outdoor learning modules
• environmental education workshops
• territorial interpretation sessions
• activities on sustainability, mobility, and ecological awareness

Her presence ensures that international participants experience Sardinia through a cultural and ecological lens, not through tourism.