Italy

Discovering the Secrets to Longevity in the Blue Zones

Seek to understand the lifestyles & mindset of people in Blue Zones, where the highest number of centenarians live. Students will meet centenarians & local experts to explore several theories of longevity.

For groups of 15+

Highlights

  • Dr. Gianni Pes - Speak with Dr. Pes, the Senior Researcher who first reported on Sardinian longevity. Discuss his findings on nutrition & lifestyle factors associated with long life.
  • Honey House - Honey is considered a longevity food in Ikaria. Learn about its quality & production.
  • Agios Kirikos Hospital - Meet a cardiologist & general surgeon to discuss centenarian health, then shadow a physiotherapist.
  • Bread-making Workshop - The “Carta di Musica” flatbread was traditionally consumed by shepherds who needed nutrient-rich food that would sustain them through long days.
  • Seulo Walk - Discover the connection between hiking & longevity. Meet a shepherd who will demonstrate how to make local cheese.
  • Local Centenarians -Talk with local centenarians as you prepare a meal for the group. Learn their secrets to living long & healthy lives.
  • San Benedetto Food Market - Sample local food at the largest covered fish market in Europe.

Itinerary

Day 1: Cagliari
Upon arrival at the Cagliari airport, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Your guide holds a PhD in biology and specializes in nutrition, longevity & Blue Zones (regions where people live longer). Receive a brief orientation on ancient versus modern flours and how they impact blood glucose levels.

Day 2: Cagliari
Today, enjoy a breadmaking workshop (lunch included) as Sardinia is known for its nutrient-rich bread. A local proverb states, “With bread, you will never die.” For example, the “Carta di Musica” flatbread is made using high protein, low-gluten durum wheat. It was traditionally consumed by Sardinian shepherds who needed long-lasting, nutritional food to carry with them in the fields for extended periods of time.

Day 3: Su Nuraxi Nuraghe
This morning, depart for a guided visit of Su Nuraxi Nuraghe. The Nuraghe civilization existed in Sardinia from the 18th century BC until the 2nd century AD. While there are no written records of these people, there are several remaining fortresses throughout Sardinia. This Bronze Age defensive structure consists of a central tower with three chambers, built from blocks of basalt (volcanic rock).

Later in the day, visit an olive oil grinding mill for a tour, tasting & pasta-making lesson. This evening, enjoy a launeddas concert where you’ll hear this traditional Sardinian woodwind instrument. Then you'll make your way to Seulo for overnight. This small village with the highest concentration of male centenarians in world.

Day 4: Seulo
Enjoy a morning walk in the mountains of Seulo and discover the connection between hiking & longevity. Meet a local shepherd who will demonstrate how to make local cheese (depending on availability). You’ll also have the opportunity to try a shepherd’s-style lunch.

The remainder of the day is at leisure in Seulo.

Day 5: Seulo
Today, meet with local centenarians and learn their secrets to living long & healthy lives. Prepare a meal for the centenarians & spend time with them before a lecture/meal with Professor Pes (if available). Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 6: Cagliari
Early this morning, return to Cagliari & enjoy a visit to the lively San Benedetto food market, home to the largest covered fish market in Europe. Experience authentic Italian culture by strolling through the bustling stalls & trying samples of local food. The first floor is dedicated to seafood & the second is where you’ll find produce, cheese & other Sardinian specialties.

Day 7: Cagliari, Capo Carbonara, Costa Rei & Arbatax
After breakfast, departure for Capo Carbonara, a protected marine area of great ecological importance. With local experts’ help, you will discover the ecological importance of this area and the surrounding fauna. Lunch at leisure in the afternoon, you will discover the wonderful Costa Rei, known for its long white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. After spending the afternoon in Costa Rei, continue your journey towards Arbatax.

Day 8: Arbatax & Baunei
After breakfast, meet with the environmental guide and departure for Baunei. You will start the excursion from Santa Maria Navarrese, a fascinating seaside village. The walk to Perda Longa offers breath-taking views of the coast and the unspoilt nature of Sardinia. During the excursion, you can admire the local flora and fauna, take beautiful photos and lose yourself in the natural beauty of the route. Perda Longa, a spectacular rock formation overlooking the sea, will be your destination.

Day 9: Arbatax
After breakfast, head to Porto Frailis beach to participate in a major beach clean-up activity. This important activity not only helps the environment but also provides an educational experience on the importance of conserving our natural resources. Lunch at leisure in the afternoon, visit the Red Rock Beach, famous for its red rock formations emerging from the sea. Continue to the Cape Bellavista Lighthouse, located on a cliff with a breath-taking view of the sea.

Day 10: Arbatax, Orgosolo & Nuoro
After breakfast, depart for Orgosolo, located in the heart of Barbagia. Orgosolo is renowned for the high longevity of its inhabitants. Upon arrival in Orgosolo, you will have an authentic experience while having lunch with local shepherds. Learn about the traditions and lives of Sardinian shepherds and discover the secrets of their longevity. After lunch, you will take part in a performance of Sardinian Tenores singing, an ancient form of singing unique to Sardinia and recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, stroll through the village of Orgosolo to admire its famous murals. Continue towards Nuoro.

Day 11: Return Home
After breakfast, load your luggage and depart for Cagliari. You will have the whole day to explore the city at your leisure before transferring to the airport for your return flight home.

Optional Add-Ons Available Upon Request

Customize Your Itinerary

You can adjust the number of days, choose the level of accommodations or change the sites visited. We'll create a complete package, including: flights, meals, meetings space or whatever else you may need.

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