Swept Away in Sardegna

Sea and Cycling Adventure on Italy's Most Exotic Island

Highlights

Peaceful pedaling along the turquoise Mediterranean
Archaeological explorations at a 3,000-year-old village
Al fresco barbeque with modern-day Sardinian shepherds
Glimpses of rare animals such as eagles, wild boar, and moufflons
Stays at charming seaside hotels and enchanting country inns

Pristine beaches … high cliffs plunging into the blue Tyrrhenian sea … remote mountain villages … golden fields. Sardenga (Sardinia), with a rugged countryside and ancient heritage, is a bit on the wild side…but that's its allure, too. Come ready to pedal, hike, swim - and surrender your heart.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1-2 – Alghero
Experience the island's Spanish heritage on a warm-up ride to the Sanctuary of Valverde. On Day 2, ride to Capo Caccia, visit the Grotto of Nettuno and come back to Alghero for a guided tour and some free time in town.

Day 3 – Bosa
Follow the spectacular coastline, a natural oasis for rare birds to Bosa, for a stroll to the Malaspina.

Day 4 – Santa Caterina
Ride to Cuglieri, passing mountains, woods and rivers, and view S'Archittu, a natural structure created completely by coastal erosion. Continue along the coast to Santa Caterina.

Day 5 – Lago di Gusana
Today we ride inland to Barbagia, a rugged clandscape rich in living traditions. The silence of these untouched mountains will give you the impression that time has stopped, and you may even see rare animals like wild boars and eagles.

Day 6-7 – Oliena
We wind our way around the mountains of Gennargentu before arriving in the village of Oliena. During your free time, you will have the chance to explore the natural grottos, prehistoric tombs and nuraghi villages. Or visit Orgosolo, the village of murals. You'll also have opportunities to attend craft and cooking demonstrations, as well as traditional music evenings. On day 7, you're off the bike, and we hike up to the 3,000 year-old village of Mt. Tiscali to explore the Nuragic settlement and share a barbecue with local shepherds.

Day 8 – Barisardo
We ascend the Genna Silana pass from 328 to 3,280 feet on what is sure to be one of the best rides of your life!

Day 9 – Villasimius
Our last ride features eight miles of roller-coaster riding through lush farmland and follows La Costa Rei, "the King's Coast," to our delectable seafood celebration.

Day 10 – Arrivederci!
A sumptuous breakfast ends our cycling exploration of Sardinia.