Europe's deepest canyon: Gorropu Canyon, Sardinia

The Gorropu Canyon, located in the Supramonte region of Sardinia, demarcates the border between Orgosolo and Urzulei. Formed by a fault and the erosive power of the Rio Flumineddu, this spectacular gorge, measuring over 500 meters in height and ranging from 4 to several dozen meters in width, is considered the deepest canyon in Italy and one of the deepest in Europe. The gorge's walls contain fossils revealing a sub-marine origin, dating back between 190 and 60 million years.

Sardinian endemisms, such as the 'nuragic' aquilegia of Gorropu, grow exclusively within the canyon, earning a spot on the IUCN's list of the first endangered Mediterranean endemisms. Wildlife abounds within the canyon, including the collared viper, marten, imperial eagle, and large colonies of mouflons, Sardinian hares, foxes, hedgehogs, and wild boars.

Typical Mediterranean plants, such as the fillirea (locally known as Arridellu, Alaverru, Aliderru, Aladerru) and the holm oak (eni), as well as the Sardinian trout and euprotus, an endemic species, can be found within its waters. The canyon can be reached via the Sedda ar Bacas - Gorropu B-502 hiking route, which is 12 kilometers long and overcomes a drop of 200 meters. Alternatively, a steep path near Urzulei offers a panoramic view, though it involves a 650-meter return ascent.

Services for returning with all-terrain vehicles are available at Passo Ghenna Silana. It is also possible to swim in one of the natural lakes formed by the Rio Flumineddu. Parking is available near the S'Abba Arva bridge, and a trail along the river offers panoramic views. A trail from S'Abba Arva can also lead to the Nuragic village of Tiscali.

Sources: Wikipedia, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons