Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean. The island is known for its varied landscape. From rugged mountains to rolling hills and breathtaking coastlines with turquoise water; you have it all here. You can cycle beautifully here, but on a rest day, enjoy the crystal-clear sea - where you can swim even outside the summer. And it is not just the scenery that is fantastic; the authentic culture, relaxed island atmosphere and culinary specialities also make this a must-see location.
Sardinia has something for every cycling enthusiast. Here you will find long, winding climbs on well-maintained road surfaces, but also excellent off-road adventures. Note that not all roads are well-maintained. With a gravelbike you know you can really go in any direction on this island. However, there are also plenty of well-maintained roads for cyclists. Climbs such as Monte Limbara and Monte Albo offer plenty of challenge and breathtaking views. Along the coastline, you can enjoy rolling roads with beautiful views over the clear blue sea. For mountain bikers many challenging routes can be found especially in the rugged Supramonte region and around the Gennargentu mountains.
The relaxed atmosphere and hospitality of the locals ensure you can enjoy a well-deserved break with local specialities after each ride. After an intense ride, you can enjoy local specialities such as pane carasau (crispy flatbread), pecorino cheese, or a glass Cannonau wine. The ancient nuraghe (prehistoric towers) and small mountain villages are absolute must-sees to discover a piece of the island's history. Luckily, this can be done perfectly from a bicycle!
Sardinia is the perfect destination for a cycling holiday because of its unique combination of quiet roads, challenging terrain and breathtaking nature. The island offers everything: long climbs in the mountains, rolling coastal roads with spectacular sea views and off-road trails for gravelling and mountain biking. Add the authentic Sardinian culture, delicious local cuisine and sunny Mediterranean climate, and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable cycling holiday.
Far to the north lies the region Gallura, known for its granite rock formations and rolling hills. Here you cycle through quiet back roads and along the Costa Smeralda, a luxury tourism area, known for its white-sand beaches and turquoise sea. The hilly routes offer a nice mix of challenge and relaxation, but it can get very crowded here in the summer months.
Further inland, near the east coast, you enter the Supramonte, a rugged and mountainous area. This is the place for adventurous cyclists who love climbs and unspoilt nature. The limestone gorges, deep valleys and winding paths make for challenging routes for all disciplines. Here you can taste the wild side of Sardinia!
The region Campidano, in the south, provides a sharp contrast. This is a vast, flat area with fertile plains and vineyards. It is an ideal place for those who want a more relaxed route cycling past quiet, authentic villages and archaeological sites such as the nuraghi.
Along the east coast lies Ogliastra, a region with imposing cliffs and idyllic beaches. Here you can gravelling along winding paths that meander along the coastline or mountain biking through unspoilt countryside. The mix of coast and mountains makes this a popular destination for adventure cyclists.
To the southwest lies Sulcis, a historic mining area. Here you cycle through Mediterranean forests, past abandoned mines and secluded beaches.
Spring is ideal for a cycling holiday in Sardinia. The landscape is in full bloom, with colourful flowers and green hills, while temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. This season offers quiet roads and pleasant weather, perfect for long rides along the coast or through the rugged interior. Occasional light rain may fall, but overall this is the most pleasant time to explore the island.
Summer in Sardinia brings long, sunny days, but also high temperatures that often exceed 30°C. Cycling is good in the early morning or late evening, especially along the coast where a cooling breeze blows. During the day, the hot conditions can be challenging, but this season does offer a unique combination of cycling and relaxing at the beach. The coastal areas can be very busy, but inland remains quieter.
In autumn, tranquillity returns to Sardinia as temperatures drop to a pleasant 18°C to 25°C. The landscape takes on warm autumn colours and the roads are less crowded. This season is ideal for long bike rides as well as adventurous gravel and mountain bike routes. As November approaches, the chance of rain increases, but the atmosphere and comfort remain pleasant for cyclists. In early autumn, the sea is still pleasant. And; during this period, you have the beaches almost to yourself!
Winter offers mild temperatures of 10°C to 15°C, with clear skies and quiet roads. This is an excellent period for those who want to avoid the crowds. Although the days are shorter and there is a chance of rain, the silence and pure landscape make for a unique experience, especially along the coast.
Spring and autumn are the most recommended seasons for a cycling holiday in Sardinia because of the pleasant temperatures, quiet roads and beautiful nature.
There are plenty of bicycle-friendly accommodations to be found in Sardinia. Generally, you can take your bike to hotels, but always check before booking.
There are plenty of locations in Sardinia where you can rent bikes. For example, hire here a fine Cube gravel bike or road bike. Accommodation is available at Bike Hotel Asfodeli. Here you will also find fantastic (cycling) tour guides so you can find the most beautiful routes. Mountain biking and guided cycling are also well catered for here.
Length: 14 kilometres
Altimeters: 907 metres
Average gradient: 6,5%
Starting pointTempio Pausania
Description: The climb to the top of Monte Limbara is stunning. You cycle through pristine nature and arrive at unusual, massive rock formations, giving the landscape a surreal touch.
Length: 9 kilometres
Altimeters: 456 metres
Average gradient: 5,1%
Starting point: Fontanamare
Description: Although the summit of this pass is 'only' at 419 metres altitude, this is quite a calf-biter - the last 3 kilometres are steep with percentages around 13%.
Length: 37 kilometres
Altimeters: 1145 metres
Average gradient: 3,1%
Starting point: Lotzorai
Description: This is one of the longer climbs in Sardinia, which is good for everyone to cycle as it does not get very steep. There are even sections of false flat. But definitely put this climb on your list as the scenery is beautiful.
Looking for beautiful gravel trails in Sardinia? Then read about Maks and Jeffrey's experience here.
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