MOUNTAIN BIKING ACROSS THE WILDEST SARDINIAN MOUNTAINS AND ANCIENT VILLAGES, WE REGAIN CONTACT WITH A UNIQUE AND UNSPOILT NATURE!
The Sardinia Off-Road Traverse is guided or self-guided tour, which starts at sea level at Barisardo on the eastern coastline. From there, over a six-stage itinerary, it climbs to the top of Mount Bruncu Spina at 1829 m – the highest peak that can be climbed on a mountain bike on Sardinia, and from there goes back to the sea.
The trip explores the biggest and most famous mountain range in the island: Gennargentu, synonymous with mountain for us Sardinians, a unique place on earth. With the lowest population density in Europe, it makes for a magic place for mountain bikers who want to feel the emotion of discovery, and the thrill of riding in open spaces, far away from civilization.
Barbagia - that's the name of the subregion that contains most of the range - has preserve its cultural and natural treasures. The countryside in these areas is immense and never the same. Depending on the position above sea level, it alternates between pastures, valleys, forests, beaches and cliffs that fall vertically to the clear blue Mediterranean Sea.
By searching on the internet the places we'll cycle through, you'll discover we've magically included a lot of the most important - and environmentally unique - places on the island. Jerzu and its spectacular rocks, the enchanted Montarbu forest, the Barbagia mountains dotted with tiny old towns, Bruncu Spina - the tallest bike-reachable peak, the huge - thousand years old - forest of Montes, Cala Luna and the Supramonte.
The Gennargentu environment, so fascinating and wild, is inhabited by a unique and protected wildlife such as the mouflon, a wild sheep and the symbol of Sardinia. Other precious species there are the huge Sardinian griffon vulture as well as the royal eagle, ravens and hawks.
But you know what? Human presence can be interesting too: small typical towns of Sardinia are really worth the visit. Iconic places like Belvì, Fonni, Orgosolo - world famous for the mural paintings. Well, we've included them all!
Mountain biking tours have long focused on crossing a region by linking up sections of dirt rather than searching out the best trails in a given area. This falsely assumes mountain bikers care more about the destination than the journey. With this tour we have combined enjoyable trails that link the must see natural and historical points of interest and allow us to visit - at the end of stages - meaningful towns and immerse ourselves into the social/economic reality of the heart of a the region.
To be honest, this is the dream tour for our tour leaders: a mountain bike trip that is not extremely difficult, neither physically nor technically, and with stages of less than 50 km on average. The accommodation is not luxurious; there is nothing like it in these remote areas. It is based on small farmhouses and typical hotels, always the best in the area, to offer comfort after a day of mountain biking, but also to experience true local hospitality, food and wine.
Cycling through charming villages and historical sites, participants get a firsthand experience of Sardinia's rich cultural heritage, ancient ruins, and traditional towns.
The tour showcases the stunning coastal beauty of Sardinia. From golden beaches to cliffs meeting the sea, the landscapes are breathtaking and diverse.
The journey promises to create lasting memories, from the idyllic coastal vistas to the encounters with local traditions and the sense of accomplishment after completing this scenic route.
Every evening a good accommodation, typical and genuine food and local wine on small family run hotels and farmhouses.
Sardinia is a region known for mild Mediterranean weather. It generally features warm, dry weather which makes these rides particularly enjoyable. The spring and fall can see the highs range from the 18s to 25s (Celsius), while the lows are generally between 14 and 18. Summer highs are generally between 28 and 25. We always recommend bringing along riding layers and even a bit of rain (might happen in Spring and Fall) gear so you can keep riding comfortably throughout the day.
Sardinia Cycling arranges group transfers from and to the closest airport for the trip: Cagliari. Individual transfers can be also planned and the cost might depend from the departure or arrival location, from the transfer time and it can also be influenced by the presence of bulky luggage, like a bike case. Other transport option is public transport. About this last opportunity, we suggest you using Google Maps and select 'public transport' from and to your selected destination. In any case, we're ready to help you selecting the quicker, smoother and most cost effective solution.
Sometimes your trip on Sardinia simply isn’t long enough! Extend your stay for the best vacation possible. If you wish to spend a few days in our lovely island either before or after your trip, and need assistance making those plans, we're available help. Self guided and supported trips can be extended too and that can happen in any intermediate location along the itinerary: we can help selecting the best one!
One thing riders learn soon is that Sardinia is hilly. The terrain is varied, with gradual and short, or very long and progressive climbs throughout the week. Gennargentu Traverse is best suited for our 'Challenge' riders. The routes have been designed to avoid very technical or exposed trails, and to be easily accessible to e-bikes. However, some sections on open roads are unavoidable.
SardiniaCycling Quartu (Cagliari)
Via Vittorio Emanuele, 27
Quartu Sant'Elena, Cagliari
Office: +39 070 204 1029
Mobile: +345 541 8808
Mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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