"We still have to process what we've done." With these words, between amazement and gratitude, Monica Arrighi and Marco Bidini recount their feat: they are the first pilgrims to complete the Cammino di Bonaria, the new route that crosses Sardinia from Olbia to Cagliari. She, 55, is a freelancer, and he, 62, is retired: a pair of avid walkers who, from Arezzo, chose the island for an experience they call "unforgettable."

The journey began on August 13th from the Cathedral of San Simplicio in Olbia . Fourteen stops, one per day, culminated in the arrival on August 26th at 2:00 PM in front of the Basilica of Bonaria. "Showing the stamps was emotional," they explained, "because in that moment we realized we had accomplished something truly great."

Monica emotionally recalls setting off from Monte Ortobene, with dawn illuminating the statue of the Redeemer, and the discovery of Marmilla, "a new land for us; the wheat fields brought us back to the hills of Siena." Marco, on the other hand, emphasizes the surprise of the hinterland: "We've been coming to Sardinia for forty years, but always along the coast. This journey has shown us a new side of the island."

The decision to leave came thanks to Antonello Menne, whom we met on the Via Francigena : "He told us the Camino was almost ready. Two days later, we had already booked the flight, without even knowing the route. We trusted him and we were not wrong."

They were also moved by the welcome : "In the places where we stayed, they weren't just welcoming, but much more: water, fresh fruit, a sincere smile. We won't forget it." A well-marked path, without the need for GPS, which convinced them to return. "It filled our hearts," they confess, "and we'll do it again. Sardinia still has so much to tell us."

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