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Ogliastra cross

Ogliastra Cross – Mountain Biking Adventure in Eastern Sardinia

Ogliastra Cross – Mountain Biking Adventure in Eastern Sardinia

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READ WHAT OUR GUESTS HAVE SAID

"Wish I could give more than 5 stars - everything about our trip was brilliant. From the bike fitting when we arrived, to the routes and the accommodation Sardinia cycling were excellent."
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  • € 1140
    Self guided tour
    Early season
  • € 1060
    Self guided
    late season
  • Number of days: 7
  • Level: Enthusiast
  • Tour code: OGC-26

Ogliastra Cross is a mountain biking tour that takes place in the east of Sardinia. Nothing like this is available on any other island in the Mediterranean, and certainly not in continental Europe.

This unique adventure will create enduring memories for even the most seasoned cyclists.

Starting from the Gulf of Arbatax, it leads up through the mountainous regions of central Sardinia (both the granite massif of Gennargentu and the arid plateaus of Supramonte), before descending through limestone canyons, down to the sea of the central eastern coast, with its beautiful caves, white sandy beaches and turquoise sea.

Along this tour you will experience this beautiful and continually changing scenery in absolute serenity. Finding Mediterranean forests oak, pine and chestnut, as well as bizarre rock formations and harsh high plateaus. You can expect to find horses, donkeys, pigs, goats, and wild sheep grazing freely, and birds of prey circling overhead. Humans are scarce, as this is the least populated region of Italy.

However this is where, more than 4000 years ago, the sophisticated Nuraghic civilization developed. The remains of which, impressive stone fortifications known as Nuraghe, have survived the millennia. From beginning to end, the tour explores this beautiful region following mostly two track roads, but there are sections of single track that test your bike handling and will get your heart pumping.

The tour loops through central-eastern Sardinia, up into the mountains of Ogliastra including Gennargentu National Park and ends at the inaccessible coves on the coast between Baunei and Dorgali. Despite the remote nature of the tour accommodation is always very comfortable and in most cases is in small towns or near little villages.

The tour is relatively easy, with distance averaging 43km and daily elevation gain of around 1000 meters. We have designed the tour to be suitable for e-bikes (which are available from our fleet), with recharging possibilities on longer stages, even though it's never been necessary with the current potential of e-mtbs.

The hotels offer simple but tasty Sardinian cuisine, as well as the island's high quality wines. 90% of our guests appreciate the possibility of extending the trip at the end and enjoying the sea and natural wonders of the area. Over the years we have improved the design of the trip to make it even easier to extend it. A perfect choice for those who want to enjoy an immersion in the wild nature of Sardinia on a route that does not require a high level of fitness or advanced riding skills.
  • Best landing airport
    Cagliari
  • Best departure airport
    Cagliari

Transfer time

Transfer time from airport to hotels is about 2 hours both on landing and departure.

Inclusions and add-ons

Tailor your experience

The services described here represent the standard inclusions generally provided across our tours. However, every itinerary has its own unique features, with different hotels, dining experiences, and additional services depending on the route and tour version. For complete details — including the specific hotels, number of included dinners, transfers, and all other services included in your chosen trip — we invite you to download the dedicated brochure for the tour you are interested in.
The Sardinia Cycling app for iOS and Android
The Sardinia Cycling app for iOS and Android is included with both guided and self-guided tours. Discover a new, paper-free way to manage all your trip information, designed to help you make the most of your time exploring Sardinia by bike. The app includes detailed stage briefings, navigation, points of interest, and useful recommendations such as suggested cafés along the route and our favorite local restaurants for evenings when dinner is not included. The app is available well before your trip departure, allowing you to explore the itinerary, get familiar with the route, and start preparing for your adventure in advance.

all lodging

All accommodations are included.
We handpick the best hotels available along the route, choosing properties that combine comfort, local character, and an ideal location to make every stage of your journey memorable.

meals

All breakfasts and some dinners
We believe true luxury is about freedom of choice. In a world where personal preferences, dietary requirements, and food intolerances play an increasingly important role, we don't think it's our job to decide what our guests should eat. Or drink. For this reason, we include meals only when they genuinely represent the best option, either for their quality or for logistical reasons.

Pic-nic breaks

More than just a meal
...a chance to slow down, share stories with the group, and fully appreciate the landscapes you've been riding through. On guided tours, we organize scenic picnic breaks with a selection of local sweet and savory specialties, fresh fruit, and refreshing drinks. A delicious way to refuel while enjoying some of the most beautiful locations along the route.

Bike rental

More than just a bike
From our flagship Pinarello Dogma F, equipped entirely with Made in Italy components, to comfort-oriented endurance bikes and the latest e-road models, you're free to choose the bicycle that best suits your riding style and goals. To make that choice even easier, all our tour guests receive a 10% discount on any bike selected from our rental fleet. This way, you pay only for the bike you truly want to ride, not the one someone else has chosen for you.
pick your own bike!

Luggage delivery

Available as add-on

Sardinia Cycling offers - among the extras - a reliable and punctual luggage transfer service for guests traveling on our self-guided tours. Leave your luggage at the hotel reception before 9:30 a.m., and you'll find it waiting for you at your next hotel by 3:00 p.m. The service price is listed among the optional services in your trip brochure and can be added during the booking process as an extra. Since the cost depends on the number of transfer stages, it may vary from one itinerary to another.

Welcome Kit

Travel with style
Every guest joining a Sardinia Cycling tour receives an exclusive Sardinia Cycling cycling jersey — a small but meaningful reminder of the adventure you are about to experience. Guests on our guided tours also receive our popular Sardinia Cycling day bag, designed to keep all the essentials you may need during the riding day within easy reach. A practical companion for your daily adventures, and another detail that makes your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Day by day breakdown

Day 1 Welcome to Sardinia!

Welcome to Sardinia! Cagliari airport sits just minutes from this town and our headquarters. We will meet at our location for the bike fitting and briefing, then we move you to your hotel in Bari Sardo. You'll then have plenty of time to enjoy an aperitivo, and savor your first traditional dinner.

Accommodation

Category: 4-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 2 From Bari Sardo to Jerzu

Here we go!

We leave the picturesque beach of Bari Sardo and its Aragonese tower behind us: the adventure begins. We ride along the sea before pointing westwards toward the mountains of the Ogliastra region.

This first stage includes two climbs. The first, rather short and easy, comes after a long flattish stretch of countryside roads near the seaside villages of Bari Sardo and Cardedu.

The second climb starts in the bottom of the Cannonau-wine valley surrounding the Pardu river.

It's challenging, but has stunning views of the sea and the mountains of Ogliastra. Midway up, we come to the little town of Jerzu. It's a famous wine town and its name is synonymous with Cannonau red wine for us Sardinians.

A lunch stop here is a great idea, and an occasion to taste a glass of wine where it is produced. The hotel is not far.

Ride Specs

Distance: 56km
Elevation gain: 1,173m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 3h 15min.

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Day 3 From Jerzu to Lanusei

A truly scenic jewel is the regional park and the forests laying between Jerzu, Osini and Ulassai. A mixture of oak woods and Mediterranean scrub interspersed with the omnipresent Dolomitic stone.

This is a haven for Sardinian wildlife. The beginning of the stage features a super fun section of single track that leads to the village of Ulassai, known for the amazing Grotta Su Marmuri that lies just past the town, we highly recommend a visit.

Soon after this natural monument is another, the famous Scala San Giorgio, a deep canyon carved in the limestone that will introduce a series of easy up and downs through holm oak and pine forests.

Set in this old forest is the archaeological park of Bosco Selene, which contains many remnants of the Nuragic civilization. From here its a quick descent to Lanusei, the main town on the Ogliastra mountains, where you will overnight.

Ride Specs

Distance: 56km
Elevation gain: 1,173m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 3h 15min.

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Day 4 From Lanusei to Villanova Strisaili
There's nothing better than riding to the top of a mountain if you want to have a clear view of what surrounds you, we will do just that today. Climbing out of Lanusei we will ride at 1000m along a mountain spine that divides its east and west side. But the show is not over, we will climb up Mt Idolo. From its peak, of more than 1200m and highest point of the trip, we can admire the sea on our east, and the Gennargentu mountains on the west. We will slowly loose altitude while approaching the Bau Muggeris Lake (aka Lago Alto Flumendosa) and the family-run agriturismo where we will get a delicious home made dinner at Agriturismo in Villanova Strisaili.

Ride Specs

Distance: 48km
Elevation gain: 520m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 2h 30min

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 From Villanova Strisaili to Baunei

From lake to lake. We leave the agriturismo on the Alto Flumendosa and ride through the Mediterranean macchia on a super long descent that takes us along the shores of another lake known as Santa Lucia. We then ride past cultivated fields before reaching the only climb of the day: from Triei to our destination the small mountain town of Baunei. The most important trekking and hiking destination of Sardinia. There are a few bars and small restaurants, some of them with a stunning view of the valley and the Arbatax gulf. The stage is not short, but it is quick enough to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the picturesque old town. Overnight in Baunei at a 3-star hotel.

Ride Specs

Distance: 62km
Elevation gain: 323m
Riding terrain: flat
Riding time: 3h 

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 From Baunei to Santa Maria Navarrese

Yet another day cycling through at least three completely different landscapes: from conifers and oak trees of the Baunei plateau, we ride across the dry and rocky Supramonte, then back to sea, on an amazing cove along the Gennargentu National Park coast. Leaving the hotel in Baunei we climb up the hairpins that take us to the Supramonte Plateau. Once there, we have a chance to do a detour to Punta Salinas and enjoy an unique view on the coastline, before riding again on the main trail that leads to the small town of Santa Maria Navarrese. This easy descent brings an end to the stage and leaves plenty of time to enjoy lunch at the small restaurant on the beach and a swim in the crystal clear waters. That's a very well deserved relax after an exploratory mountain bike week!

Ride Specs

Distance: 61km
Elevation gain: 1,300m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 3h 30min

Accommodation

Category: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Day 7 Goodbye Sardinia

Transfer to airport (when included in the package). End of services — and, we like to believe, the beginning of new friendships. Seven remarkable and varied days, nearly 250 km, and a journey through the many faces of Sardinia: from the quiet eastern coast villages to the timeless charm of the typical inland, weaving together the island's interior with some of the most spectacular coastal roads in the Mediterranean.

Technical facts

  1. Tour category:

    enthusiast

  2. Number of stages:

    5

  3. Number of days:

    7

  4. Total distance:

    218.40 KM

  5. Total elevation:

    5,191 MT

  6. Start location:

    Barisardo

  7. End location:

    Santa Maria Navarrese

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:

What you say about us!

The Diagonal Tour

Supported tour

The trip surpassed all of my expectations, and they were very high to begin with. First of all, Francesco was just amazing. He not only dealt with every issue that arose, but was super fun! The route was perfect for us, and more than that, the scenery and nature was breathtaking. The accommodations were pleasant -- no issues at all. And the meals were spectacular. I not only would recommend this tour, I would consider doing it again!

The West Coast of Sardinia Biking Tour

Self guided

This was an excellent opportunity and we highly recommend Sardinia Cycling for tourers. They were flexible on the front end, reliable and responsive during the trip, booked excellent hotels and created a truly unique and exceptional adventure. We're grateful for the quality of bikes, the attention to detail and the thoughtful recommendations. This was an outstanding trip and we're telling all our friends!

Gennargentu Off-Road Traverse

Self guided

It was an adventure and a great experience to explore the wilderness of Sardinia. The food was very local and was great. We had a great time. Thanks to Sardinia-Cycling Team.

Sicily tour

Guided tour

Sardinia Cycling is the best - the very best planning, very best people and maximum flexibility for whatever might occur along the way. This is our 3rd time working with them, twice in Sardinia and once in Sicily. Just totally awesome!

North Sardinia

Custom trip

This trip was amazing. The hotels were great. The routes were perfect and the support from Sardinia cycling was excellent. What an amazing destination and the weather in Oct. was perfect.

Cycling camp in Orosei

guided group fixed base holiday

This trip was excellent. Cycling was amazing, everything from flat beach rides, to long 40km 5% grade rides, to short 1km 15% grade intervals. Bikes were well maintained and guides exceptional. Roads were surprisingly very good. Some remote roads were a little rough but no worse than home. Hotel Club Hotel Marina Beach was also amazing. Largest pool I have seen but also very close to the beach. Rooms were large and clean, personnel very friendly, dining area was large and food was good. My wife and I have been on 6 cycling holidays in Italy and Spain. This was the best.

The Diagonal Tour

Supported tour

The trip surpassed all of my expectations, and they were very high to begin with. First of all, Francesco was just amazing. He not only dealt with every issue that arose, but was super fun! The route was perfect for us, and more than that, the scenery and nature was breathtaking. The accommodations were pleasant -- no issues at all. And the meals were spectacular. I not only would recommend this tour, I would consider doing it again!

The West Coast of Sardinia Biking Tour

Self guided

This was an excellent opportunity and we highly recommend Sardinia Cycling for tourers. They were flexible on the front end, reliable and responsive during the trip, booked excellent hotels and created a truly unique and exceptional adventure. We're grateful for the quality of bikes, the attention to detail and the thoughtful recommendations. This was an outstanding trip and we're telling all our friends!

Gennargentu Off-Road Traverse

Self guided

It was an adventure and a great experience to explore the wilderness of Sardinia. The food was very local and was great. We had a great time. Thanks to Sardinia-Cycling Team.

Sicily tour

Guided tour

Sardinia Cycling is the best - the very best planning, very best people and maximum flexibility for whatever might occur along the way. This is our 3rd time working with them, twice in Sardinia and once in Sicily. Just totally awesome!

North Sardinia

Custom trip

This trip was amazing. The hotels were great. The routes were perfect and the support from Sardinia cycling was excellent. What an amazing destination and the weather in Oct. was perfect.

Cycling camp in Orosei

guided group fixed base holiday

This trip was excellent. Cycling was amazing, everything from flat beach rides, to long 40km 5% grade rides, to short 1km 15% grade intervals. Bikes were well maintained and guides exceptional. Roads were surprisingly very good. Some remote roads were a little rough but no worse than home. Hotel Club Hotel Marina Beach was also amazing. Largest pool I have seen but also very close to the beach. Rooms were large and clean, personnel very friendly, dining area was large and food was good. My wife and I have been on 6 cycling holidays in Italy and Spain. This was the best.

Dates and prices

Custom

Turn this trip into a private guided tour for your group!
  Get in touch!  

€ 1140

Price for Ogliastra cross - 5-stage 7-day - Mountain bike self guided tour  early season  :: available from Apr 10 to Jun 21

€ 1060

Price for Ogliastra cross - 5-stage 7-day - Mountain bike self guided tour  late season  :: available from Sep 1 to Nov 15

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 opportunity to customize your trip by adding optional services, such as local experiences (when not already included), luggage delivery, or transfers to and from different airports.

Important: Luggage delivery is a shared service. For example, a couple only needs to book one luggage delivery service. The same applies to groups of up to four people, who can share a single luggage transfer.

Once you've selected your preferred extras, you can proceed to payment.

Expand to discover Why This Trip Is Perfect for You

"Is this tour too difficult for me?"

Response: Ogliastra cross is a enthusiast-level ride, designed for experienced cyclists who enjoy long distances and elevation gains. However, we provide detailed route profiles, support vehicles, and the option to go self-guided or with a guide, allowing you to manage the pace that suits you best. If you're unsure, we’re happy to discuss your experience level and help you decide if this tour is right for you.

"What if something happens to my bike during the ride?"

Response: We offer mechanical support, and our high-quality rental bikes are professionally maintained before every tour. If you bring your own bike, our team can assist with basic repairs. We pride our guests have never had to skip a stage in over 15 years.

"Will I feel isolated if I choose the self-guided option?"

Response: Not at all! Our self-guided option includes turn-by-turn navigation via our app, detailed maps, and local recommendations for food, rest stops, and attractions along the way. Plus, our support team is just a call away if you need assistance.

"What’s included in the price? Are there any hidden costs?"

Response: We believe in transparent pricing. The 'Support' area of this page provides a precise breakdown of incluions for all the support level available. Some dinners, drinks, and personal expenses are not included, so you have the flexibility to choose where and what to eat.

"I want to experience Sardinia, not just ride. Will I have time to explore?"

Response: Absolutely! While cycling is a key part of the experience, we’ve carefully designed the itinerary to allow time for local culture, food, and relaxation. You'll pass through charming villages, stunning coastlines, and historical sites, with opportunities to stop and explore during the rides or in the evenings.

"How do I get to the starting point, and how do I return after the tour?"

Response: We assist with logistics! The tour starts in the north of Sardinia and ends in the central east coast. We can arrange airport transfers or guide you on the best way to reach the starting point and return after your adventure.

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

Response: With over a decade of experience, we specialize in premium cycling tours in Sardinia. Unlike larger operators, we provide a deep local knowledge, handpicked routes, and personalized service that ensures you get the most out of your experience. Plus, our top-tier rental bikes, expert support, and flexible options make your trip seamless and stress-free. When you reach out to us—before or during your trip—you'll be speaking directly with the experts who designed your tour, not a third-party intermediary.

"I can plan a trip like this on my own. Why pay for a tour?"

Response: Planning a multi-day cycling adventure requires extensive research, logistics, and on-the-ground knowledge. Our tours take care of route planning, luggage transfers, accommodation, and support, so you can focus on enjoying the ride without the stress of organizing details or troubleshooting issues on the go.

"Is Sardinia really worth it compared to other cycling destinations?"

Response: Sardinia offers stunning landscapes, diverse terrain, quiet roads, and an authentic Italian experience that many popular cycling destinations can’t match. It’s a paradise for road cyclists, with breathtaking coastal views, mountain climbs, and a mild Mediterranean climate—perfect for riding almost all year round.

Still unsure?

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

Up to 45-minute, one-to-one call · Limited weekly availability · No obligation

 Book your consultation
Or get in touch with us!

Packing and Weather

Sardinia's Mediterranean climate offers excellent riding conditions for most of the year. Expect temperatures of 15–25°C in spring and autumn, and 28–35°C during summer. Lightweight layers and a packable rain jacket are recommended for maximum comfort in changing conditions.
What to pack?

Transfers

We can arrange airport transfers to and from your tour, whether shared or private. Private transfer rates vary depending on the route, timing, and any oversized luggage (such as bike cases). Public transport is also available in many locations, and we're always happy to help you choose the most convenient and cost-effective travel option.

Go Custom

Make the trip your own. Extend your stay before, after, or during your tour, or upgrade to a private experience tailored to your preferences. Whether you'd like extra nights, itinerary adjustments, or a fully customized tour, we'll be happy to help create the perfect cycling holiday.
Let's plan your trip!

Terrain

Sardinia offers varied and rewarding cycling terrain, with a mix of rolling roads and climbs of different lengths and gradients. Our routes are carefully designed to follow quiet, scenic roads and avoid traffic whenever possible. While short sections of busier roads and urban areas are sometimes unavoidable, they represent only a small part of the overall riding experience.

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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