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Max Leopold Wagner E-bike tour

Highlights

Max Leopold Wagner E-Bike Tour – Stage-Based Adventure in Southern Sardinia

Follow in the Footsteps of Max Leopold Wagner, on this self guided tour and enjoy Authentic Experiences and Local Hospitality

  • Number of days: 9
  • Level: Enthusiast
  • Tour code: MLW-E-26
  • Price from: € 1175

Support levels

Expand the section below for a quick overview of the services included in this trip. For more detailed information — such as hotel descriptions and more — we invite you to download the brochure.

What’s Included

Accommodation – all accommodation as per program
Meals – all breakfasts, three dinners
Support level – briefing; access to the SardiniaCycling APP; telephone assistance during the tour
10% off bike rental

What’s Not Included

Flights
Extras in hotels
Drinks during the dinner
City Tax
Travel insurance
Group transfers
Individual transfer – our staff will be happy to provide more details and quote
Luggage transport
Bike rental

Technical facts

  • Number of stages:

    7

  • Total distance:

    477.50 KM

  • Total elevation:

    6,245 MT

Description

Explore Sardinia Day by Day!

A cycle tour in seven stages following the route of Max Leopold Wagner, the noted Sardinia culture connoisseur.

On this tour through the south of Sardinia, you will discover the history, culture and natural environment that fascinated Max Leopold Wagner. Specialized in Romantic languages, Wagner, a Bavarian, traveled – on a bicycle – between Sardinian villages at the beginning of the twentieth century to enhance his knowledge of the idioms of the island specifically and its culture generally.

His stays on the island not only provided for the three volumes of the Etymological Sardinian Dictionary, an essential tool for the study of the Sardinian language, but also “La vita rustica” (The Rustic Life), a book that reflects on life as seen by Wagner during his visits in the various regions of Sardinia.

This tour follows in Wagner’s path along quiet roads through some of the most historically and culturally rich regions of Sardinia. The Wagner tour is a shaped as a ring that encloses the southern half of the island. Stages have a medium-low difficulty level and leave time for visiting the numerous sites, taking a dip at the many beaches along the way, and enjoying the wonderful Sardinian food.

We love this tour as it gives a great insight of both coastlines - east and west - as well as of inner Sardinia, as it cuts through the middle of the island, with two overnights in very typical locations. Just as Wagner, you will gain an appreciation of Sardinia, from the most touristic corners to the very remote and traditional areas.

We are sure experiencing ever the changing landscape, ancient history, and diverse food and wine traditions will leave an indelible impression on you. You may even write a Wagner-like travel blog yourself.

Stay in handpicked hotels and traditional farmhouses, offering a glimpse into the authentic Sardinian way of life. Each stop promises comfort and a true taste of local culture. This biking tour isn’t just about the ride; it's a celebration of Sardinia's rich history, stunning landscapes, and the spirit of exploration that Max Leopold Wagner embodied.

Get ready for an unforgettable expedition that intertwines adventure with cultural immersion! This biking tour isn’t just about the ride; it's a celebration of Sardinia's rich history, stunning landscapes, and the spirit of exploration that Max Leopold Wagner embodied.

Day 1: Welcome to Sardinia

Arrival at Cagliari airport, transfer to Alghero (when included in the package), check-in and welcome.

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 2: From Cagliari to Muravera

We start the ride in between the Poetto, Cagliari's main beach, and the Molentargius natural park: famous for its rare beauty and abundant bird life including pink flamingos. From there we head toward Villasimius, on a marvellous coastal road with multiple beachs along the way. Next we ride north to Muravera and the marvelous Colostrai lagoon. Overnight in Muravera.

Upon request, we can make this stage shorter with a van transfer.

Ride Specs

Distance: 81km
Elevation gain: 942m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 4h 30min

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: From Muravera to Orroli

From Muravera, we ride through the typical Sardinian villages of Ballao and Escalaplano on our way to the small village of Orroli. It's a stage full of up and downs with generally medium length climbs. Only the last stretch, right after Escalaplano, is rather long: about 7km inside a spectacular red granite canyon. After the climb a rewarding view on the Mulargia lake. A must-see site to visit during the stage is right at the end of the main climb: the Nuraghe Arrubiu, a massive and unique structure dating back 4000 years. And we can’t miss the Omu Axiu museum, which offers us a view of peasant history in Sardinia. Dinner and overnight in Orroli.

Ride Specs

Distance: 56.5km
Elevation gain: 1,173m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 3h 15min

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Day 4: From Orroli to Villanovaforru

We rate this stage as super easy, as you can see from the specs there isn't much climbing and the meters down are more than the meters up. This is designed to give you time to enjoy the sights along the way. After leaving Orroli, we pass through Nurri, Gerrei, Barumini and Collinas on our way to Villanovaforru. In Barumini, we visit the 'Su Nuraxi' nuraghic complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided visits are frequent and in many languages, a wonderful opportunity to get a better understanding of the unique history of the island. In the village of Tuili we can visit the parish church with its lovely paintings. Dinner and overnight in Villanovaforru not far from the UNESCO site at Barumini.

Ride Specs

Distance: 48.5km
Elevation gain: 520m
Riding terrain: mostly flat
Riding time: 2h 30min

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Day 5: From Villanovaforru to Torre dei Corsari

We leave central Sardinia and ride along grain fields and pastures towards the west coast: it's a very interesting area, and surprisingly totally flat. As we approach the coast we see a huge lagoon where fishing is still the main activity of thousand families. We will cross the bay and give you a chance to experience the fruits of these small scale fishing operations with a nice fresh lunch in the fishing village of Marceddì. After lunch it is only a few more kilometers to our hotel, situated near a nice beach that awaits you. Overnight in Torre dei Corsari.

Ride Specs

Distance: 61.9km
Elevation gain: 323m
Riding terrain: mostly flat
Riding time: 3h 30min

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: From Torre dei Corsari to Portixeddu

This is the most challenging stage of the whole trip. But, you'll get the reward of amazing views of the Costa Verde and its very wild nature. First part of this stage is flat. The road begins to rise slightly as you approach the small village of Guspini, after which the climb becomes more challenging. Here you leave the coastline and ride into the heart of the Sardinian mining area, Montevecchio, with all the old mining facilities. You also ride through Arbus, known for fine handcrafted knives. After Arbus and the Bidderdì mountain pass, it's all descent - and what a descent - on a beautiful mountain road toward the sea where the ride ends at Portixeddu. Careful management of your energy, especially during the first part of this stage will allow you to easily tackle the more difficult climbs in the middle of it. Dinner and overnight in Portixeddu.

Ride Specs

Distance: 61.5km
Elevation gain: 1,310m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 5h

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Day 7: From Portixeddu to Sant'Antioco

Before you leave the hotel it is very important to put a brand new memory card with many gigabytes in the camera: the stretch of coast you ride along on this stage, especially in its first part, is nothing short of spectacular. The coastline of Nebida, Buggerru and Masua has many climbs and many descents. But the time you'll spend on the uphills is never enough, as it allows you to better fix the memory of these breathtaking views in your mind. A stop at Cala Domestica is a must before tackling the biggest climb of the day. The second half of the day is mostly flat as we head toward Sant'Antioco, where we overnight.

Ride Specs

Distance: 69.9km
Elevation gain: 861m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 4h

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: From Sant'Antioco to Pula

From Sant'Antioco you experience a series of ups and downs that characterize this stage. The stretch of coastal road from Porto Teulada to Chia is the highlight. Recognized as one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world, this stretch features a variety of colors, very often pastels, in contrast with the deep blue sea. And, of course, there are the ever-present Aragonese towers that once protected the coastline. They’re from the time of the Spanish occupation of Sardinia. Overnight in Pula.

Ride Specs

Distance: 85.4km
Elevation gain: 986m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 5h

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9: Goodbye Sardinia

Transfer to Cagliari airport (when incuded in the package) and end of services.

Enhance Your Experience

Turn your cycling adventure into an unforgettable journey.

Cycling through breathtaking landscapes is only part of the story. To make your trip truly special, we’ve curated a selection of authentic local experiences — from hands-on pasta making to wine tastings and cultural encounters — that let you discover the soul of the region beyond the saddle.

These experiences are included in the Guided version of the tour, offering a deeper connection with local traditions and people. If you’ve chosen the Self-Guided option, you can add them individually to create your own perfect mix of cycling and discovery.

For this trip, we propose:

  • Pasta-making class
  • Winery visit and wine tasting

Dates and prices

How to reserve on-line

Step 1: Choose Your Dates

For self-guided tours, you can select any start date within the available periods (early or late season). Once you pick your starting day, the full trip duration will automatically appear. If your preferred dates fall outside these periods, please email us. While reservations are possible, we’ll handle them directly outside of the online store.

Step 2: Select Room Occupancy

Choose the desired room arrangement for your stay.

Step 3: Select Extras and Pay
Before completing your booking, you’ll have the chance to customize your trip by adding optional services — such as local experiences (if not included), luggage delivery, or transfers from and to different airports. Once you’ve selected your preferred add-ons, you can proceed to payment.

Support levelDeparturePriceBook now
Support level: Self guided | early season
Departure:

Apr 1 - Jun 21, 2026

Price: € 1175
Book now:

Support level: Self guided | late season
Departure:

Sep 1 - Nov 10, 2026

Price: € 1099
Book now:

Support level: Go Private
Customize your trip
Departure:

Apr 1 - Jun 21, 2026 | Sep 1 - Nov 10, 2026

Price:
Book now:

Bike rental service

Choose the perfect ride for you

Unlike most tour companies, we operate an in-house rental service, offering top-quality bikes tailored to enhance your journey. We believe that the right bike can turn a great trip into an unforgettable one. Instead of prescribing a specific model, we invite you to choose the bike that best suits your riding style from a wide range of platforms, models, and sizes. To make things even easier, when you book your trip, you’ll receive a 10% discount code to apply to your bike rental.

Why This Trip Is Perfect for You

Click to discover!

"Is this tour suitable for my fitness level?"

Response: This tour is designed for riders who enjoy cycling but prefer a more relaxed approach, thanks to the assistance of e-bikes. The route includes some elevation, but the e-bike allows you to control the effort, making it accessible even for those who are not used to long rides.

"What kind of support is available during the ride?"

Response: You’ll have access to our experienced guides, who know the routes inside out and are there to assist with any mechanical or logistical issues. Additionally, our support team is always reachable in case of emergencies.

"What happens if the weather is bad?"

Response: Sardinia enjoys a mild climate, and we carefully plan departures in favorable seasons. However, in case of unexpected weather changes, we adapt the itinerary to ensure your safety and comfort, offering alternative routes or activities when needed.

"I’ve never been to Sardinia. Is it a good destination for cycling?"

Response: Sardinia is a paradise for cyclists. The island offers well-maintained roads, stunning landscapes, and a mix of coastal and inland routes. Plus, the low traffic and welcoming atmosphere make it one of the best cycling destinations in Europe.

"I’m not sure if an e-bike is the right choice for me."

Response: Our high-quality e-bikes offer the perfect balance between support and control. You can ride with as much or as little assistance as you like, making it an ideal choice whether you want a leisurely ride or a bit of a challenge.

"Will I have time to explore beyond cycling?"

Response: Absolutely! This tour is designed to blend cycling with cultural experiences, including visits to historical sites and local villages. You’ll also have time to relax and enjoy Sardinia’s outstanding food and wine.

"This tour seems expensive compared to other options."

Response: While our tours may not be the cheapest, they offer exceptional value. You get expert local guides, high-end e-bikes, carefully selected accommodations, and an immersive experience that goes beyond just cycling. Our attention to detail ensures a premium adventure with no hidden costs.

"I prefer to explore independently rather than in a group."

Response: We offer both guided and self-guided versions of this tour. If you prefer more flexibility, our self-guided option allows you to ride at your own pace while still benefiting from our carefully planned routes and 24/7 assistance.

"Why should I book with Sardinia Cycling instead of another provider?"

Response: Sardinia Cycling is a specialist in cycling adventures on the island, offering deep local knowledge and personalized service. Our carefully designed routes, high-quality equipment, and passionate guides make the experience unique. Unlike larger tour operators, we focus on authenticity and tailor our trips to give you the best of Sardinia.


Still unsure?

Let’s chat and make sure this tour is the perfect fit for you!

Logistics & Preparations

Max Leopold Wagner E-bike tour

We suggest the following arrival and departure locations. The earlier flights will help us arranging transfers or other activities such as bike rental formalities, bike fitting and all services that are provided individually.
  • Best landing airport
    Cagliari
  • Best departure airport
    Cagliari

Transfer time from airport to hotels is about 25 minutes. Transfer from the hotel to the airport is about 50 minutes.

Packing and Weather

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.

Transfers

Sardinia Cycling arranges group transfers from and to the closest airport for the trip. 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.

Go Custom

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!

Terrain

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. The routes have been designed to avoid busy roadways, that are very rare in a large and sparsely populated island. However, very little urban riding and short sections of busy roads are unavoidable in Sardinia.

Tour Map: discover your route across Sardinia


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Location

SARDINIACYCLING HOME
Via Vittorio Emanuele, 27
09045 Quartu Sant'Elena | Italy

Contact

Office: +39 070 204 1029
Mobile: +39 392 07 42 153
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