A few years without one of the most spectacular and challenging climbs in the Mediterranean has only led to our recurring guests asking more and more to reinstate this famous climb in the opening stage of Epic Sardinia. Not that we didn't want it ourselves: it's too beautiful to be left out for too long. The climb is reached after an easy section – the perfect distance to warm up properly. After the climb and the obligatory photos from the viewpoint on Monte Genziana, which stands 1000 meters above the sea of the Gulf of Arbatax, we continue towards Fonni, passing through another one of Sardinia's famous "gem climbs": Correboi. Long, but easy. It gives us plenty of time to admire the endless panoramas over the mountains in the heart of Sardinia from above. After Correboi, the hardest part is almost over. But here we had a brilliant idea: in previous years, this stage was quite long, and only the most prepared guests would ride the optional final climb to the highest mountain area in Sardinia. In this edition, the stage is shorter, and we're sure that many more will treat themselves to the joy of this special experience – the ascent to Monte Bruncu Spina. The stage ends at a charming agriturismo, nestled in a park among the famous mountains of the Barbagia region, known for its natural beauty and deeply rooted traditions. It's the ideal place to spend two nights.

Fonni is a very strategic location on Sardinia and offers the opportunity for some truly exciting circular routes. That’s why we often decide to spend two nights here and dedicate one day to a loop ride. Of course, the magical atmosphere of the mountains, the comfort of the selected accommodation, and the excellent food play a big role: after all, we only live once. Another aspect we appreciate about this place is the combination of top-tier cycling and cultural experiences, which are offered by the ancient, well-preserved traditions and the rich history of this inland region.

Cycling-wise, there are many climbs—we are in the central mountain massif, so it’s inevitable. However, the ascents are long and very steady, with almost no double-digit gradients. Culturally, we pass through two iconic villages: Mamoiada, known for its authentic carnival, and especially Orgosolo, world-famous for its political murals. Both places are also becoming important hubs for independent winemakers who have achieved true excellence. We won’t be tasting the wine while riding, but we can surely indulge in a glass during a delicious, traditional dinner!

There’s a quick and easy way to get from Fonni to Belvì, a charming town nestled in the heart of Barbagia’s mountains. But we’re not after easy or fast. We’re in search of breathtaking views, roads that turn every meter into an adventure, and climbs that make every drop of sweat worth it.

So, let’s choose the scenic route—one that winds around a tranquil lake, takes us along peaceful roads, and rewards the daring with the spectacular Tascusì Pass. Along the way, we’ll pass through Tonara, a village famous for its irresistible nougat.

The elevation gain is steady and manageable, with gentle climbs that make this stage more about enjoyment than effort. Once we reach Belvì, we’ll unwind in a cozy, family-run hotel and indulge in a delicious, traditional dinner.

The fourth stage is a journey between two iconic towns nestled deep in the heart of Sardinia, connected by a captivating route that winds through the island’s untamed wilderness. This road offers an immersive experience of Sardinia’s rugged and unspoiled beauty.

We depart from Belvì in the Barbagia region and head toward the heart of Sardinia’s famous Blue Zone—an area renowned for holding the record for male longevity. To inspire you to embrace the challenge of the distance and elevation, consider this: every meter you climb here adds a little more days to your life (there's a considerable elevation!) and for sure makes your time on the island all the more rewarding.

The highlight of this stage is Sardinia’s hidden gem: the Montarbu road. This semi-abandoned route cuts through the central mountain range, offering glorious views of untouched, primal landscapes. There are no single major climbs to conquer, just a constant rhythm of ascents and descents at altitude. This dynamic terrain not only keeps things interesting but also ensures breathtaking panoramas that stretch on and on. By seamlessly blending the raw beauty of nature with Sardinia’s rich history, this stage transcends the concept of a simple ride. It becomes an odyssey—connecting you to the essence of this enchanting island.

Orroli is another one classics that is back for the high demand. Stage six unfolds on charming roads—ancient, winding, and now peacefully secluded from car traffic, cradled in the embrace of nature's neglect. What intrigue us about this stage is the radical change in sceneries that the riders will face while the ride southwards to Orroli.

At first, as you wind your way down the first mountain pass, the landscape transforms, welcoming you to the valley of a renowned Cannonau wine region. Traverse among the vineyards, each row a testament to the rich terroir of this fertile land.

Jerzu, the capital of red wines, is the place where the scenery changes in a sudden way, becoming more of a typical Mediterranean kind, made of scrub and rocks, rather than forests and cliffs.

We cross Perdasdefogu and Escalaplano and face a long and progressive climb to Orroli, a very traditional village where we can savor hospitality like in the old times.

The final highlight of this trip takes us to the stunning town of Cagliari, marking the end of our journey with another incredible ride through the hills of southern Sardinia.

You’ll be amazed at how wild this area feels, despite being so close to a bustling city. But this is Sardinia—a place where the quiet, untamed countryside is its hallmark. And so are the climbs. This region features a cycling environment filled with shorter climbs, but plenty of them, making the ride both challenging and rewarding.

As we near Cagliari, the terrain flattens out and the roads become busier. To navigate smoothly, we’ll use the network of cycle lanes, cycling to the Maglia Nera cycle café to celebrate the end of this unforgettable adventure before heading to the nearby hotel.