Swept Away in Sardegna
Photo Gallery:
Swept Away in Sardegna
Trip Leaders
Video
Upcoming Dates
- September 23, 2010 Sold Out
- October 20, 2010 Sold Out
- May 9, 2011
- June 13, 2011
- September 17, 2011
- October 13, 2011
Accommodations
Classic
Ability Level
Intermediate
Terrain
Rolling with breathtaking views
Distance
297 miles Daily Average: 42
Arriving
Alghero
Departing
Caglieri
Price
- $4,495
Single Supplement
$850
Bike Rental
Included!
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.
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, to enjoy the beautiful area of Supramonte and a hike to the top of Mount Corrasi, from where you catch breathtaking views of the valley below.
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.