What you get on this adventure: An experienced, English-speaking cycling guide with extensive local knowledge of the area At least one leader qualified in first aid 8-day Sardinia cycling tour Accommodation — shared twin/double ensuite rooms in small hotels/ agriturismi (7 nights) Meals as listed in the itinerary Support vehicle and luggage transfers Airport round-trip transfers (to and from Cagliari Airport) — on scheduled arrival / departure days only Mountain bike and helmet rentals are available for an added fee of $225-$400. What’s not included: Bike rental — available if required Transportation or flights to Sardinia Meals not listed in the itinerary and snacks Single room — available if required Travel insurance Personal clothing and equipment Personal expenses (souvenirs, bar bills, hotel facilities etc) Entrance fees to museums and other attractions en route Ferry tickets between the islands of San Pietro and Sant’Antioco (approximately €15) — 2 tickets, from Portovesme to Carloforte (Island of San Pietro), then from Carloforte to Calasetta (Island of Sant’Antioco) Airport transfers on days other than the scheduled arrival / departure days Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

For this 8-day Sardinia cycling tour, you need to be able to cycle between 20 and 45 miles (32-72 km) per day. This tour is ideal for a leisure cyclist with a good level of physical fitness. Though the trail is relatively flat, there will still be some steeper climbs as well as sections of varying terrain. This Sardinia cycling tour is great for you if you keep relatively fit and perhaps enjoy an afternoon out on your bike on the weekend. Though your preference is for flatter terrain, you don’t mind tackling some hills and an occasional steep climb if you can take it at your own pace—there will be some ups and downs on this trip, as well as some varying terrain. It’s generally expected that you have a decent level of physical fitness and that you’re comfortable with some longer days in the saddle. Looking for some Italian alternatives? Maybe this mountain biking tour in Tuscany is a better pick!

What’s the terrain like?

You can expect a terrific blend of both serene countryside and spectacular coastal views on this Sardinia cycling tour! You’ll be riding primarily on well-paved roads, though there will be a few shorter sections of gravel/dirt roads that lead to your accommodation. You’ll be pedaling through a region which combines rolling hills and long flat stretches, passing olive groves and vineyards. When you get to the coast, the riding gets a bit more undulating, with a few challenging, but well-rewarded coastal sections. These roads will overlook long stretches of sandy beaches and remote coves. The climbs are never too steep or long, and the roads generally have little traffic. Both hybrid and e-bikes are recommended and suitable for the terrain—but please note that there’s only one e-bike-only departure. The route is otherwise suitable for a road bike if preferred.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s what you’ll need: Bike — available to rent Comfortable, season-appropriate riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture wicking or synthetic material Padded shorts Peaked helmet Sneakers or sport shoes Breathable outside layer or jacket Sunglasses Plenty of water, water bottle or hydration bladder Daypack with snacks Biking gloves are optional but recommended Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Indeed you can! Both hybrid bikes and e-bikes are offered on this tour. Hybrids are typically Giant Roams (or equivalent). If a small frame is needed you will generally be given Liv Roves. Please note that if you request a bike with a low cross bar, models might be different. If you choose to rent an e-bike, it will be especially helpful when it comes to some of the steep climbs on the tour. The e-bikes on offer are Giant Entour or E+. However, these are subject to availability so let us know as soon as possible if you’d like to rent it. Keep in mind that May 4, 2024 is an exclusive e-bike departure . If you choose to bring your own bike, please contact us beforehand to determine if the bike is suitable for the tour.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: The group size for this Sardinia cycling tour is 14 people. There are usually 3 guides per trip, two cycling guides and one guide in the support vehicle. At least 6 people have to sign up for the tour to run. The cost does not decrease as the group grows. Sardinia cycling can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Children as young as 10 are able to go on trips with a legal guardian. That said, if you have a young rider strong enough to handle sustained climbs (either riding or walking their bike) of hundreds of feet, and rough terrain, then they may be able to participate on a case-by-case basis. If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to your Sardinia cycling tour, it’s best to fly into Cagliari Airport (CAG) on Sardinia. Your guides will pick you up at the airport for the start of the tour and drop you off at the airport on the last day of the tour. This is included in the price, but if you’d like to arrive earlier than Day 1 and leave later than Day 7, you’ll have to arrange transportation by yourself.

Safety measures in Sardinia, Italy

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more. Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans. We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. For more information on travel recommendations and restrictions in Italy, please refer to Italy’s foreign travel advice . If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Pointy peaks and cyclists beneath in Sardinia

Cycling along a coastal view in Sardinia

Cyclists going through a city in Sardinia

Cyclists drinking coffee on the coastline

SARDINIA | ITALY

Sardinia Cycling Holidays: Italian Paradise Found

5.00 ()

Season

Spring and fall

Nearest city

Cagliari, Sardinia is 1 hour away

Duration

8 days

Difficulty

Guides

Naomi Lindfield, Saddle Skedaddle

From $2,380 () / 8 days

Got any questions? or Talk with us

Overview
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Reviews
Things to know

Find felicità in Sardinia, the heart of the Mediterranean. The south-western part of this Italian island paradise will be your home for a week-long cycling holiday. With all the pristine white-sand beaches, idyllic olive groves, and a laid-back way of life, this cycling trip is all about la dolce vita, a journey of the senses and a bliss for the tastebuds. Pedal along the azure coastline, swim in the crystalline sea, stop for a wine tasting, and cherish those citrusy notes of Sardinia’s own pompia fruit. Come to this unforgettable island for a cycling trip, leave with lifelong memories.

Book a call

Rewarding cycling on quality trails

Views of varied landscapes: from coastline and hidden coves to oak-wooded valleys and vineyards
Italian food

No need to explain this one, just Italian food day and night
Authentic accommodation & home-made meals

Stay in cute bed & breakfasts, bucolic agriturismi, and charming local hotels

Itinerary

Cycling in Sardinia doesn’t get better than this. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, this charming island is a perfect home for a true Mediterranean holiday. This 8-day guided cycling tour will take you through the south-west corner of the island, a region bursting with varieties: from vineyards, olive groves, and oak-wooded valleys to high rugged cliffs dotted with watchtowers and splendid hidden coves. And does Italian food even need an introduction? You’ll spend your nights in cute B&Bs, agriturismi, and local hotels, and if your legs get tired by day, there’s always a support vehicle to hop on and make it a bit easier.

Meet your guides at Cagliari Airport and take a one-hour drive to your accommodation in the village of Orroli. The rest of the day will be spent organizing the bikes and going through the route with your guides. You’ll also get to know the rest of the group. Get some rest under the Italian sun, tomorrow the cycling begins!

Accommodation: B&B, hotel or agriturismo in Orroli
Meals: Dinner
Start cycling through Marmilla, a hilly region which has been the center of cereal, olives, and grapes cultivation—where bread making still follows ancient recipes! Visit the Barumini archeological site and a museum. This Nuragic site was built in the Bronze Age, and it features incredible remnants of the fortress and the village—massive blocks of rock built into three-storey towers, internal staircases, courtyards, and a sauna! Cycling south you’ll then curve around Giara, a high volcanic plateau occupied by hundreds of wild horses. Soon you’ll be cycling through vineyards and olive groves hills, eventually getting to the Collinas village. Venture down to Campidano Plain, the biggest one on the island, and stop in Sardara. Sardara and its well have been a sacred area since ancient times—its closeness to hot springs made Nuragic people believe it has healing properties. Your hotel is set near the Roman remains of old thermal baths! Unwind in spa facilities before dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel in Sardara
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Cycling: 37 miles / 60 km
Elevation: 680 m / 2,230 ft
Leaving behind Sardara and its rural church of Santa Maria delle Acque, continue pedaling across an agricultural area, passing Pabillonis, with fields of growing artichokes, wheat, and saffron—offering a tapestry of colors and perfumes. Heading west, Gonnosfanadiga sits below the rocky spurs of the Iglesiente region, and is known for its olive oil. If possible, stop at a local cafè and patisserie to sample some of the local traditional cakes from almond and saffron. Get back into the hills just below Mt. Linas before reaching your accommodation for the night—a delightful agriturismo offering superb homemade pasta, home-cured meats, cheeses, olive oil, and wine. A perfect end to Day 3.

Accommodation: Agriturismo in Arbus
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 25 miles / 40 km
Elevation: 600 m / 1,970 ft
Superb 8 kilometers (5 miles) of gentle downhill riding with mountains surrounding you take you to the coast. Cycle along the long sandy beach of Portixeddu, where you’ll have time to stop for a swim. Reach the hamlet of Buggerru, a once-thriving mining coastal town (where you’ll have the chance to visit one of the mines, Galleria Henry), which now survives on fishing and travelers. Continue along the remote coastal route towards the towering limestone pinnacles and cliffs of Masua. This is a free climber’s heaven, where excellent routes rise from the sea up to the sky. Pedal onwards to Nebida, where you’ll spend the night.
Accommodation: B&B, hotel or agriturismo in Nebida

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 25 miles / 40 km
Elevation: 600 m / 1,970 ft
Ride south down the coast, and soon you’ll have the chance to rest your legs while on a ferry enroute to the island of San Pietro. The town of Carloforte was founded by coral fishers, who moved there from Tunisia, making their influence strong and present in architecture of the island and cuisine. With its pastel-colored houses and narrow cobbled streets, Carloforte is perfect for a stroll. You’re free to spend some time on your own, so maybe choose tuna for lunch, as the island is well known for its fishing community. Another short ferry ride takes you across to the Sant’Antioco island, where a short ride takes you to town and your accommodation for the night.

Accommodation: B&B, hotel or agriturismo on Sant’Antioco Island
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 25 miles / 40 km
Elevation: 350 m / 1,150 ft
Start your day by visiting some of the hidden archeological sites of the island. Though its history goes back to the Nuragic times, the island truly thrived when the Phoenicians founded it as “Sulki” in 259 BC. Worth a visit are the Punic Necropolis and Tophet, as well as the Church of Sant’Antioco and the Catacombs. Leave the island by the causeway across the Bay of Palmas, and continue towards the Sulcis mountains. Ride through rolling hills around Trattalias and Santadi, cycle past vineyard after vineyard, and soon you’ll realize that you’re entering the region of the Carignano grapes. Here is where you’ll have the chance to try some local wines at the Cantine di Sa Mesa. From there, the undulating road winds its way for 13 km (8 miles) to Teulada, offering views of remote hamlets and the south coast.

Accommodation: B&B, hotel or agriturismo in Teulada
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 43 miles / 70 km
Elevation: 510 m / 1,675 ft
On your final day in the saddle, cycle along a rollercoaster road towards Pula. The Costa del Sud is a 20-kilometer (12-mile) stretch of twisting road above rugged cliffs that plunge deep into the blue sea, with many outlooks and sandy coves along the way. Cala Tuerredda is one of the most incredible whitesand beaches with emerald colors of the sea. From here, the road climbs away from the coast, dropping back toward the long sandy beach of Chia. You’ll take a short detour to Chia tower, from where you’ll enjoy panoramic views. Continue cycling along a quiet coast road, finally reaching the little town of Pula. There’s an excellent gelateria in the main town square, serving home-made gelato, a perfect treat after the long journey. Evening is free to wander around town, trying out one of the many quality restaurants.

Accommodation: B&B, hotel or agriturismo in Teulada
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Cycling: 435 miles / 55 km
Elevation: 550 m / 1,805 ft
Wake up early and go for a one-hour drive to the airport. Depending on the group’s flight schedules, there’s hopefully going to be some time to wander around the city—the perfect place for last minute goodies, relaxing on Italian piazze, or sipping on vino rosso. You’re encouraged to stay longer, though! Sardinia is a beautiful place, also offering some great hiking and kayaking opportunities! Just ask your guides for some recommendations and they can help arrange some day trips. Alternatively, if you’re looking for some city life and culture, your guides can arrange a guided cycle tour of Cagliari.

Meals: Breakfast

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Meet your guides

5.00

Naomi Lindfield

Naomi heads up Saddle Skedaddle’s charming Italian team. Sardinia is her native home, and that’s where she’s most likely to be found—the island is also the base of Skedaddle’s headquarters. Ever since she was a kid, Naomi has been cycling through the bucolic Sardinian countryside. She says that biking helps you immerse yourself in a country, as you are in direct contact with nature, people, cultures, and events—and all of that is what enriches her life the most.

5.00

Saddle Skedaddle

Saddle Skedaddle was founded by a couple of MTB pros (Paul and Andrew) while trapped in a snowstorm during their year-long biking adventure in Chile. They believe travel should move you and that there’s no better way to see a place properly—its people, culture, and natural wonders—than by bike. Saddle Skedaddle currently runs tours in 36 destinations, offering adventure junkies incredible places to tour on two wheels.

5.00 (6 reviews)

Laurel (source: Guide’s website)

Exceeded expectations, beautiful coastline rides in Sardinia. Good communication from a member of the office staff meant we were confident everything was ready for our trip. Good standard throughout and we enjoyed the accommodation, especially the excellent food! Delicious food throughout at accommodations, lunches provided were superb! Electric bike was brilliant, much more power than the ebike I use at home. Hybrid bike was also good. Our tour leader was lovely; caring, sympathetic, enthusiastic and also a firm and decisive leader. She was very efficient and hard-working and made sure we had everything we needed for a wonderful holiday. She catered for the differing abilities of the group effortlessly and her knowledge and personality made cycling with her an absolute pleasure.

David (source: Guide’s website)

I got to see lovely parts of Sardinia and sample the local cuisine as well as having some good cycling days. Danilo and Roberto were great guides; very enthusiastic and keen to let us enjoy their home of Sardinia. They managed to accommodate the needs of all the group well and were friendly and cheerful throughout. Gave lots of advice about local food and drinks and put a lot of effort into preparing excellent lunches for us. Evening meals were a great opportunity to experience the many varied Sardinian local dishes

Clare (source: Guide’s website)

We enjoyed wine tasting to time on the beach and experienced rural inland areas of the island, as well as coastal resorts, small smart hotels to rural agriturismo. I felt I experienced Sardinia in a way that I couldn’t have done on my own or as part of a package tour. The cycling also had something for everyone, some easy days on the flat but also some interesting climbs and descents. The constants were the good food and company along the way!

Claire (source: Guide’s website)

From beginning to end, Enrico and Danilo looked after us with the utmost courtesy and care. They were excellent bike mechanics, totally organised, knowledgeable about our tour, made delicious lunches and looked after us with great humour and spirit. They were the perfect gentlemen and made the trip complete. Thank you!

Nicki (source: Guide’s website)

Every day a favourite day! There was a good mix of beach; countryside; coastline; islands were lovely; loved the peace and tranquillity of it all. Our tour leader was an absolute gentleman; kind; thoughtful; charming; made us all feel extremely comfortable; great company; funny; tolerant!!; patient; great sorting out my bike; one step ahead all the time; a pleasure to have as our tour leader; we loved him! After an amazing first skedaddle trip last year to Spain which was just fantastic there was a lot to live up to. Yet skedaddle did not disappoint and this year was just amazing too- different but amazing- fantastico- bellissimo! The thing that stands out for me in both cases are the Skeddadle guides. You should be congratulated for your choices as they are have all been amazing- and with a group of 8 bonkers girls from Derbyshire for a week, who are only quiet when they are asleep, they had their work cut out! Like last year our guides this year have been absolute gentleman and great company. Making us feel comfortable and at ease and enjoying the general mayhem, laughter and fun we generated as we cycled our way round south west Sardinia. Thank you, thank you. We may be happily married ladies with 17 children between us, but we loved them!

Shona (source: Guide’s website)

The van support driver was in charge of snacks and lunch and was so helpful. If any of us asked for something, he did his utmost to get it. Always had such a variety of snacks and his lunches were so varied and delicious.He frequently has some local specialty for us to try, it was great. We were never hungry, plenty to eat. He also had a lot of knowledge about Sardinia and each day he would tell us the history about the areas we were cycling through, local food, traditions and customs. We enjoyed his enthusiasm for his country and felt we learned so much more about Sardinia. The cycling was hillier than we thought but still so so enjoyable and quite a challenge some days. I loved it. Sardinia is so varied and beautiful! I really liked the fact that our route was on so many quiet roads. Our tour leader, was a very attentive leader. She made us all feel relaxed and put a lot of effort into making the holiday so enjoyable for us. Her warm and friendly nature shone through. Another guides mechanical knowledge was great and helped our group several times. He seemed to really enjoy the cycling to and his enthusiasm to ensure everyone had a good experience was so nice to see, whether you were at the front of the group or at the back needing encouragement. Our trip with them was so much fun and laughter, just what a holiday should be.

Things to know

What you get on this adventure:
- - An experienced, English-speaking cycling guide with extensive local knowledge of the area
  - At least one leader qualified in first aid
  - 8-day Sardinia cycling tour
  - Accommodation — shared twin/double ensuite rooms in small hotels/agriturismi (7 nights)
  - Meals as listed in the itinerary
  - Support vehicle and luggage transfers
  - Airport round-trip transfers (to and from Cagliari Airport) — on scheduled arrival / departure days only
Mountain bike and helmet rentals are available for an added fee of $225-$400.

What’s not included:
- - Bike rental — available if required
  - Transportation or flights to Sardinia
  - Meals not listed in the itinerary and snacks
  - Single room — available if required
  - Travel insurance
  - Personal clothing and equipment
  - Personal expenses (souvenirs, bar bills, hotel facilities etc)
  - Entrance fees to museums and other attractions en route
  - Ferry tickets between the islands of San Pietro and Sant’Antioco (approximately €15) — 2 tickets, from
  - Portovesme to Carloforte (Island of San Pietro), then from Carloforte to Calasetta (Island of Sant’Antioco)
  - Airport transfers on days other than the scheduled arrival / departure days
  - Guide gratuities — optional
For this 8-day Sardinia cycling tour, you need to be able to cycle between 20 and 45 miles (32-72 km) per day. This tour is ideal for a leisure cyclist with a good level of physical fitness. Though the trail is relatively flat, there will still be some steeper climbs as well as sections of varying terrain.

This Sardinia cycling tour is great for you if you keep relatively fit and perhaps enjoy an afternoon out on your bike on the weekend. Though your preference is for flatter terrain, you don’t mind tackling some hills and an occasional steep climb if you can take it at your own pace—there will be some ups and downs on this trip, as well as some varying terrain. It’s generally expected that you have a decent level of physical fitness and that you’re comfortable with some longer days in the saddle.

Looking for some Italian alternatives? Maybe this mountain biking tour in Tuscany is a better pick!
You can expect a terrific blend of both serene countryside and spectacular coastal views on this Sardinia cycling tour! You’ll be riding primarily on well-paved roads, though there will be a few shorter sections of gravel/dirt roads that lead to your accommodation.

You’ll be pedaling through a region which combines rolling hills and long flat stretches, passing olive groves and vineyards. When you get to the coast, the riding gets a bit more undulating, with a few challenging, but well-rewarded coastal sections. These roads will overlook long stretches of sandy beaches and remote coves. The climbs are never too steep or long, and the roads generally have little traffic.

Both hybrid and e-bikes are recommended and suitable for the terrain—but please note that there’s only one e-bike-only departure. The route is otherwise suitable for a road bike if preferred.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- - Bike — available to rent
  - Comfortable, season-appropriate riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture wicking or synthetic material
  - Padded shorts
  - Peaked helmet
  - Sneakers or sport shoes
  - Breathable outside layer or jacket
  - Sunglasses
  - Plenty of water, water bottle or hydration bladder
  - Daypack with snacks
  - Biking gloves are optional but recommended
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Indeed you can! Both hybrid bikes and e-bikes are offered on this tour. Hybrids are typically Giant Roams (or equivalent). If a small frame is needed you will generally be given Liv Roves. Please note that if you request a bike with a low cross bar, models might be different.

If you choose to rent an e-bike, it will be especially helpful when it comes to some of the steep climbs on the tour. The e-bikes on offer are Giant Entour or E+. However, these are subject to availability so let us know as soon as possible if you’d like to rent it. Keep in mind that May 4, 2024 is an exclusive e-bike departure.

If you choose to bring your own bike, please contact us beforehand to determine if the bike is suitable for the tour.
Group sizes and prices:
- - The group size for this Sardinia cycling tour is 14 people.
  - There are usually 3 guides per trip, two cycling guides and one guide in the support vehicle.
  - At least 6 people have to sign up for the tour to run.
  - The cost does not decrease as the group grows.
Sardinia cycling can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Children as young as 10 are able to go on trips with a legal guardian. That said, if you have a young rider strong enough to handle sustained climbs (either riding or walking their bike) of hundreds of feet, and rough terrain, then they may be able to participate on a case-by-case basis.
If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to your Sardinia cycling tour, it’s best to fly into Cagliari Airport (CAG) on Sardinia. Your guides will pick you up at the airport for the start of the tour and drop you off at the airport on the last day of the tour. This is included in the price, but if you’d like to arrive earlier than Day 1 and leave later than Day 7, you’ll have to arrange transportation by yourself.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more.

Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.

We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. For more information on travel recommendations and restrictions in Italy, please refer to Italy’s foreign travel advice.

If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!
A non-refundable 30% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 2 months (60 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.
- - If the Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to sixty (60) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, you will forfeit the deposit.
  - For cancellations thirty (30) to sixty (60) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the trip price.
  - If you cancel your booking less than thirty (30) calendar days prior to the departure date, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.
If you need to cancel the trip, please contact us in writing. If you wish to transfer a booking to another person, please write to us at least seven (7) days before your trip. Administration charges may arise.