Ollolai is a small village tucked away in the mountainous heart of Sardinia, part of the Nuoro province. Located roughly 60 kilometres from the nearest coastline, it offers a peaceful setting surrounded by rolling hills and traditional stone houses. The closest beaches lie about an hour’s drive away, making Ollolai a spot for those who appreciate inland tranquillity rather than seaside buzz.
Over the past few decades, the village has seen a steady population decline, mainly because younger generations tend to move towards bigger towns in search of work and modern facilities. This decline has prompted local initiatives offering cheap property schemes like the 1-euro houses scheme, designed to attract newcomers willing to invest in restoring the village’s historic homes.
What’s it like to live in Ollolai?
Life in Ollolai moves at a gentle pace, marked by a close community where people know their neighbours and local traditions run deep. The village retains much of its rustic charm, with narrow streets and characteristic Sardinian architecture.
Day-to-day living revolves around local produce, small gatherings, and seasonal festivals that celebrate the area’s cultural roots. While modern conveniences are limited compared to larger towns, residents enjoy a lifestyle closely connected to nature, with plenty of outdoor space and fresh air. It’s a setting well suited to those who value simplicity and a sense of belonging over the hustle and bustle of city life.
Things to do in Ollolai
Visit Lake Gusana
Just a 15-minute drive away, this reservoir is a relaxed place for canoeing and fishing. Locals recommend going early in the morning for the best birdwatching and peaceful waters.
Horseback riding
Several stables around Ollolai offer guided rides through the rolling hills and nearby forests. Riders of all levels are welcome, and it’s a brilliant way to see the off-the-beaten-path spots and connect with nature.
Explore Gennargentu National Park
The largest natural park in Sardinia, perfect for hiking and spotting wildlife like mouflon sheep. A popular trail is the hike to Punta La Marmora, the island’s highest peak, which offers cracking views if you’re up for a challenge.
Go to the Nuragic Archaeological Site of Gremanu
About 20 minutes from Ollolai, this Bronze Age village features well-preserved stone huts and towers. Visitors say it’s best explored with a local guide who can share stories about the Nuragic people.
Head along the hiking trails
Aside from the big park routes, there are shorter, lesser-known trails crisscrossing near Ollolai. The path from Ollolai to Fonni is recommended for stunning vistas and a chance to see traditional shepherding life.
Try the local bread
Pane Carasau is a Sardinian speciality. This thin, crispy flatbread is a staple here. Pop into small bakeries in Ollolai to try freshly baked loaves still warm from stone ovens.
Taste sweet delicacies
Sebadas are fried pastries filled with pecorino cheese and drizzled with local honey. Sample them at village festivals or family-run trattorias for the most authentic taste.
Check out local festivals
Ollolai hosts lively festivals with folk music and dancing, including their annual carnival. Residents don traditional Sardinian costumes, covered in colourful embroidery and intricate jewellery.
Cost of living in Ollolai
Living in Ollolai tends to be gentler on the wallet compared with many parts of Italy, especially the island’s more touristy coastal areas. Day-to-day essentials like groceries are fairly affordable, particularly if you shop at local markets or family-run supermarkets rather than large chains.
Utilities such as electricity and heating are reasonably priced, though costs can rise in winter months due to colder temperatures requiring more heating. For a single person, monthly expenses including rent, food, and utilities typically fall between €1,100 and €1,700, depending on lifestyle choices and how much rural living suits you.
Ollolai 1 euro house scheme
The housing market here offers some real bargains, notably with historic properties available through Ollolai’s well-known 1 euro house scheme. These homes often need significant restoration, but the low purchase price can make owning a place in the village more accessible compared to pricier coastal locations.
The municipality of Ollolai has been pushing this initiative for a few years now. The council has even been targeting American citizens specifically, offering them a cheap alternative to living in the US since Trump's victory with the €1 house scheme.
How to get to Ollolai
Ollolai sits tucked away in Sardinia’s rugged interior, so getting there requires a bit of planning. The nearest major airport is Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, about 100 kilometres to the north-east. From Olbia, renting a car is the most practical way to reach Ollolai, taking roughly an hour and a half along winding mountain roads that offer plenty of scenic views.
Alternatively, you can fly into Cagliari or Alghero airports, though these are further away and also best paired with a car hire. Public transport options exist, but are limited. A few regional buses connect Ollolai with nearby towns like Nuoro or Fonni, but services are infrequent and not always convenient for newcomers.