Fifty Years of Love and Hospitality in the Soul of Ogliastra: The Story of Carmen and Fortunato
A breeze carrying the salty scent of the Ogliastra coast seems to caress the walls of this dwelling, nestled in a landscape that narrates millennia of history. Here, where the gaze wanders between gentle hills and the sea horizon, live Carmen and Fortunato, a couple whose love story took root in the school desks of Jerzu nearly half a century ago. From that chance encounter, their lives have never parted, weaving a tale of departures and returns, of deep roots and an innate desire to share the beauty of their land.
Sitting on the terrace, as the sun tinges the sky with soft hues, Carmen and Fortunato retrace the steps of their journey for two with a knowing smile. She, with the sweetness of Sardinian sunsets in her eyes; he, with the marks of time telling tales of sun, wind, and a life lived intensely.
"I still remember Fortunato sitting two desks ahead," Carmen confides, her voice veiled with a distant memory. "He was a shy boy, and I would watch him secretly, feeling a strange emotion every time he spoke." Fortunato gently squeezes her hand, a gesture that encapsulates deep intimacy. "And I didn't dare look at Carmen," he admits. "She was like a light in that classroom. Then, during a school trip, we found ourselves sitting next to each other on the bus, and suddenly, the world around us vanished."
Their path took them away from their beloved Ogliastra: Tuscany, with its opportunities and the birth of their children, then Oristano, like a sweet transition towards returning to their origins. But the call of their native land was a constant whisper in their hearts. "Youth pushed us far away," Carmen explains, "but the bond with our island has always been incredibly strong. Ogliastra, with its wild beauty, the scent of myrtle after the rain... it called us home." Fortunato nods: "In Tuscany, we built so much, but the land where we were born is a root that never breaks."
And it is here, in this house that breathes the echo of times past and overlooks a breathtaking panorama, that Carmen and Fortunato decided to plant their definitive roots, opening their doors to travelers eager to discover the authentic soul of Sardinia. "We wanted to create a refuge for those who love beauty," Fortunato recounts, his gaze lost on the horizon. "A place where the magic of the landscape merges with the simplicity of hospitality. This land has so much to say; its rocks narrate millennia of history."
But their hospitality goes beyond simply opening the doors of their home. Carmen and Fortunato also wish to share their passion for the authentic flavors of their land with their guests. Thus, their welcome often transforms into convivial dinners, where local products take center stage, telling stories of traditions and love for their island. Around the set table, between a taste of pane carasau and a sip of Cannonau wine, their life experiences intertwine with those of the travelers, creating an enriching exchange of cultures and emotions.
"We enjoy meeting new people," Carmen confides with a radiant smile. "Every guest brings a piece of the world with them, enriching our lives as well. Our home has become a meeting point, a place where stories mingle, just like the colors of the sunset we love to admire together."
Almost fifty years together: what is the secret to such a long-lasting love, born among school desks and blossomed in this land steeped in history? "I believe the secret is to love each other every day," Carmen replies, squeezing Fortunato's hand. "To respect each other's individuality and rejoice in their happiness. And then, never stop talking, sharing dreams and fears." Fortunato adds with a wry smile: "And a lot of patience! Life isn't always easy, but if the boat is solid and you row together, you can navigate any sea."
As the sun slowly disappears behind the hills, painting the sky with warm hues, Carmen and Fortunato remain seated side by side, their story a romantic whisper that blends with the magic of this ancient land, an invitation for anyone who wants to discover the true soul of Ogliastra and the warmth of a love that has lasted a lifetime.
