Lake San Sebastiano is an artificial lake known for its striking scenery, highlighted by a small island featuring the ancient rural church of San Sebastiano, from which the reservoir takes its name.
The lake was created by constructing a 38-meter-high dam on the Fluminimannu River in the Is Barrocus area, a name also given to the dam itself. The construction, which began in 1985 and was completed in 1991, included building a road viaduct to replace a section of State Road SS 128 that was submerged. The lake offers opportunities for various activities, including sport fishing, bird watching, and exploration by canoe and kayak, although motorized boats are not permitted.
Another unique feature of the lake is the proximity of the Isili-Sorgono railway line, now used exclusively for tourism. The railway route is further enhanced by the presence of a historic station located right on the lake’s shore: the old Sarcidano Station, with its early 20th-century buildings.
Being an artificial lake, it hosts a mixed ecosystem. Its flora includes the Mediterranean scrub that predates the reservoir and species from the original river ecosystem, particularly visible where the Fluminimannu River feeds into the lake. The fauna features numerous wetland bird species, such as cormorants, grey herons, and little egrets, among others.
For those interested in exploring the lake by canoe or pedal boat, we recommend contacting the Circolo Nautico San Sebastiano. Additional information about the lake and its sporting activities can be found on the Polisportiva Isili website.
