Located just outside the city of Cagliari, Molentargius – Saline Regional Park is one of the biggest protected wet and dry lands in Europe that was established in 1999. The park was created to protect the rich biodiversity of the area and in a very long past, used to extract salt production, dating back to Roman times. In fact the salt pans are dated back since Phenician times (9th – 3rd Century B.C.)
One of the park’s standout features is its population of greater flamingos. These elegant birds, known locally as “Sa Genti Arrubia” (the red people), have made the park a key breeding site, attracting birdwatchers from around the world. The park’s diverse habitats—ranging from saltwater ponds to freshwater lakes—support a variety of wildlife, including other bird species such as herons, cormorants, and kingfishers.
The name Molentargius comes from the word “molenti,” meaning “donkey,” referring to the animals once used to transport salt from the ponds. Salt extraction was a hard job done manually, first by villagers then by prisoners, up to the beginning of the 1900s when they installed machinery and everything became automated.
Today, visitors can explore the park’s walking and cycling trails, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and panoramic views of Cagliari’s skyline and the Poetto beach. Molentargius Park offers a tranquil escape from urban life, blending nature, history, and stunning wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers in Sardinia.
You don’t not need to pay to enter the park, as most of it is open to the public. One can go for a walk, rent a bike or take a tour in the park.
