Guspini, over 6,000 "walkers" along the Santa Barbara trail

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The mayor: networking

In his speech, Mayor Marco Pala applauded the initiative: "We need to network; each node contributes to creating a network that provides services to those who visit our area. Connecting and understanding the tools the Foundation provides is key to tourism. With the card and the portal, every walker can create their own itinerary. Montevecchio is a place of excellence."

The numbers of the boom

Andrea Tarozzi, head of the CMSB Foundation's ITI (Information and Training Institute), and Simone Franceschi, in the presence of numerous local tourism operators, including owners of accommodation facilities, restaurateurs, guides, and hospitality services, presented the seasonal data: a constantly growing flow of hikers, thousands of walkers year-round. "Many have already arrived, and many more will arrive." Franceschi's data is significant: "The numbers speak volumes about the value of the Camino. In 2026, credentials sold reached 5,000, compared to just 50 in 2018. This represents significant growth in recent years, with 3,450 credentials sold in 2024 and 4,200 in 2025. Including walkers without credentials, the estimated number of hikers for 2026 rises to 6,300, with approximately 25,000 overnight stays and an average stay of four nights." "These numbers translate into concrete benefits: the estimated direct spending on the local area reaches 2.18 million euros, calculated on an average daily expenditure of 87.29 euros per walker," concluded the foundation's administrator.

An economic and cultural infrastructure

Director Andrea Tarozzi explained: "The territorial development project, as confirmed by the growth in visitor numbers, is not just a result in terms of attendance, but an opportunity to generate economic growth, support existing businesses, encourage new initiatives, and strengthen the bond between visitors and local communities. This perspective necessarily requires dialogue between the Foundation, local authorities, and operators, key players in a hospitality model that aims to transform Sardinia's identity into shared value."

Operators were presented with the Mìnera Card, the service card that allows participating businesses to join the official network, be geolocated on the app and website, offer certified services, and intercept traffic flows. "The Camino isn't just a trail, it's an economic and cultural infrastructure. We must seize the opportunity now, because the demand is there," Tarozzi concluded.