Nature lovers have the chance to explore the stunning views of the Italian region of Sardinia by embarking on a 500km trail in the southwest of the island.

The trail, known as the Cammino Minerario di Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara’s Mining Trail), is made up of 30 stops steeped in history and culture.

And for visitors under 35, the autonomous region of Sardinia set up a system allowing them to stay at local hotels and B&Bs almost entirely for free.

To help attract younger tourists, affiliated businesses are accepting symbolic donations in exchange for accommodation along the whole trail.

Santa Barbara’s trail takes visitors from the southern town of Iglesias, which boasts rich traditions linked to its medieval past and gorgeous architecture, all the way down to the mining town of Bacu Abis.

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A circular route that from Iglesias winds along the slopes and paths beaten by miners throughout 8,000 years of history, from the Neolithic to the 20th century.

The difficulty of the trail varies from stop to stop and hikers are advised to plan for potential changes to the itinerary.

Anyone undertaking the challenge, whether in full or just along part of the stops, needs to apply for credentials to certify they are walking the trail.

The document will serve as a form of “passport” where they will be able to indicate the time of their arrival and departure from one location to the next.

They will also get the chance to have the document stamped as an actual passport to commemorate their visit.