Supramonte Loop | Self-Guided Bike Tour

The day begins along the beaches of the Arbatax coast, then we move towards the interior of the Ogliastra region, finishing the stage under the looming limestone plateaus that make this territory unique. The first part of the day is very easy and relaxing, among long beaches and lush gardens. But in the last part of the day the route rears up going up from the coast towards the mountain, through Cannonau vineyards and the famous rocky cliffs that create the characteristic plateaus covered with dense woods. The day ends in Ulassai, a small mountain village famous for its fabulous rock ways among climbers from half of Europe. But this is also the village that gave birth to the artist Maria Lai, who right here experimented with the revolutionary concept of relational work of art “Legarsi alla Montagna” (binding to the mountain), a monument to the memory of the living people, as she called it, which we invite you to discover in the Stazione dell’Arte Museum.

Today a beautiful day awaits you along the western slope of Gennargentu, the main mountain massif of the island. We suggest you stock up on food and water before leaving Ulassai, in fact, a wonderful area awaits you, but where you won’t find a single bar for over 30km. Immediately after Ulassai, cross the village of Osini, followed by the ghost town of Osini Vecchio, abandoned in 1951 following a terrible flood that brought its inhabitants to their knees. From the village of Gairo Taquisara we leave the Pardu valley and begin to climb the slopes of Gennargentu, this is the only noteworthy climb of the day, which continues for about 10 kilometers, taking us over a thousand meters of altitude. The route winds through woods and pastures, with a view of the characteristic rock spire of Perda ‘e Liana, the true totem of this territory. The last part of the route goes around Lake Bau Muggeris, before reaching the large wood of Santa Barbara, where our hotel awaits us.

Here is another beautiful mountain stage, always along the western slope of the Gennargentu. Compared to the previous day’s stage we will find less wood and much more pasture, and the profiles of the mountains become less harsh. But even today it will be better to get food and water before departure. At the Arcu Corr’e Boi pass, we reach the highest point of the whole tour, 1200 meters above sea level, from which you will enjoy a beautiful view over the whole valley. In Fonni a welcoming hotel awaits you in the old center village, which will delight you also for dinner with the flavors of the Barbagia cuisine.

The last stage takes you through Barbagia and some of its symbolic villages.

After leaving Fonni, we reach Mamoiada, known for its deep traditions and strong identity. Here you can visit the Museum of Mediterranean Masks, which tells the story of ancient rituals shared across different Mediterranean cultures. Wooden masks with animal and grotesque shapes, sheep and ram skins, and large cowbells were part of ceremonies linked to the agricultural year. Despite their intimidating look, these figures were welcomed as a good omen for the community.

We then continue to Orgosolo, famous for its murals that portray local history and key moments of contemporary world events. Finally, we arrive in Oliena, set at the foot of the Supramonte, surrounded by fertile countryside crossed by the Cedrino river and known for its long craft traditions. Even if the stage is quite long and crosses mountainous terrain, there are no extended climbs or particularly demanding sections.

It’s time to say goodbye, we really hope to see you again!