The Big loop of Sardinia | Self-Guided Bike Tour - Sardinia Grand Tour

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12

14 days / 13 nights

Availability : All Year Round

Cagliari

Cagliari

Description of The Big loop of Sardinia | Self-Guided Bike Tour

This Sardinia bike tour crosses the island in many directions, from south to east and from north to west. Riding a bike makes the changes clear: landscapes shift fast, flavors change, and people feel different from one area to the next, even within short distances.

The route combines the eastern coast, with white-sand beaches and clear water, with the inland areas, shaped by ancient rocks, vast pastures, and a strong local identity. Food, land, and daily habits here are part of one of Sardinia’s Blue Zones, where people are known to live longer.

Heading north, the ride reaches Gallura, known for granite landscapes, cork oak forests, and the coastline of the Costa Smeralda. The journey then follows the west coast down to Alghero, an area shaped by strong winds and open horizons.

By the end of the tour, it’s easy to see why Sardinia has become a favorite destination for cycling holidays. The island offers variety, challenge, and a strong sense of place that stays with you.

Is this tour calling out to you? Want more details before making a reservation? Schedule a free call with our local guides to learn more.

Traveling as a couple, family, or group of friends? Request a private tour and customize your bike holiday in Sardinia to fit your unique needs.

What to Expect Cycling The Big loop of Sardinia

Pedaling with sea view
Limestone cliffs and Mountains of Sardinia
The marvelous Alghero-Bosa and Sinis Peninsula
The wild Costa Verde and the history of Mines
The Granits and Glamour of Gallura
A new landscape every single day

Bike tour photos

Gallery

Bike tour details

Tour name

The Big loop of Sardinia | Self-Guided Bike Tour

Tour Departure / Arrival

From Cagliari to Pula

Level of Support

Self-Guided Bike Tour

A Self-Guided Bike Tour is a type of cycling adventure where you have the freedom to plan and navigate at your pace. Our dedicated tour guide and support team will handle hotel bookings, logistics, and baggage transport, ensuring you enjoy a hassle-free and carefree experience.

Cycling style

Avid

Stages from 100 km per day with at least 1000 mt of climbing per day. Those tours are designed for avid cyclists that belong to the local club and ride regularly. Usually, you are back at the hotel late afternoon.

For guests that want more riding, we can add extra loops to regular stages.

Daily mileage

90 km/day – 55 mi/day

Suggested Airports

In: Cagliari (Google Map)

Out: Cagliari (Google Map)

Bike tour map

Bike tour itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cagliari

Your Sardinia bike tour begins in Cagliari, a city with over 3,000 years of history, founded by the Phoenicians. Its position in the western Mediterranean made it essential to the Romans, Pisans, and Spaniards, and later to a unified Italy. Locally, it’s called Casteddu, meaning “the Castle,” something you quickly understand during the short private transfer from the airport to your hotel in the city center.

After check-in, you receive a clear day-by-day overview of the tour and complete the bike fitting. The first ride follows safe and scenic bike paths, passing the seafront, the wetlands of Molentargius Park, and the long sandy beach of Poetto. A stop by the sea for an ice cream is a relaxed way to end the first ride.

Cagliari today feels lively and open. Dinner in the Marina district shows a cuisine with strong Spanish roots. Fish, seafood, and sea urchins are common, along with handmade pasta, local olive oil, and wines like Monica and Nuragus. It’s a strong and enjoyable start to the Sardinia Big Loop.

Overnight: Cagliari

Day 2: From Cagliari to Muravera | Cycling 95Km - +1100m / 59mi - +3608ft

Leaving Cagliari, the ride heads east following the full 11 km of Poetto, a lively stretch where locals relax, swim, surf, and spend time by the sea.

For this first section of the tour, there are three possible routes.

One option follows the old SS 125, a mountain road of about 70 km with steady climbs, smooth asphalt, and very little traffic. It’s quiet and ideal for cycling.

Another option stays close to the coast, riding a continuous sequence of climbs and descents between cliffs and clear-water beaches, including Porto Sa Ruxi, Solanas, Torre delle Stelle, Geremeas, Mari Pintau, and Cala Regina.

A third variant adds a striking coastal stretch between Castiadas and Villasimius, with open views toward Isola di Serpentara.

All routes lead to Muravera, known across the island for its citrus groves.

Overnight: Muravera
Included: Breakfast

Day 3: From Muravera to Orroli | Cycling 80Km - +1700m / 49mi - +5577ft

Leaving Muravera, the route crosses citrus groves and olive fields, then climbs steadily into the Gerrei, following the course of the Flumendosa River from the coast toward the interior. As the road reaches the plateau, the ride arrives in Orroli, a village often linked to Sardinia’s culture of longevity.

The countryside around Orroli hosts the Nuraghe Arrubiu, one of the most important among the roughly 7,000 nuraghi spread across the island. These stone towers, built primarily during the Bronze Age, are unique to Sardinia and reflect a complex, advanced ancient society, with roles ranging from defense to ritual and daily life.

Overnight: Orroli
Included: Breakfast

Day 4: From Orroli to Villanova Strisaili | Cycling 80Km - +1700m / 49mi - +5577ft

The route heads into the mountains, leaving Orroli and climbing toward the Flumendosa Valley and the Gennargentu. The ascent is steady and scenic. In Sadali, a short pause near the small waterfall offers a quiet break.

From here, the road runs between Sardinia’s highest peaks on one side and the Tacchi Ogliastrini on the other. These white limestone plateaus rise sharply from the valleys, shaping a bold and distinctive landscape.

The day finishes at a small hotel set within the forest, surrounded by calm mountain scenery.

Overnight: Villanova Strisaili
Included: Breakfast

Day 5: From Villanova Strisaili to Cala Gonone | Cycling 80Km - +1200m / 49mi - +3937ft

The route returns to one of the tour’s most memorable roads, the old SS 125. Leaving Villanova Strisaili, the ride starts with a gentle descent toward Urzulei.

From here, the road begins to climb toward the Gulf of Orosei, cutting across a limestone plateau suspended above the sea. The ascent leads to the Ghenna e Silana pass, where the Gorropu Canyon, one of the largest in Europe, begins to open.

After the pass, the road descends gradually at first, then more sharply, all the way to Cala Gonone, a well-known base for outdoor and sea activities.

Overnight: Cala Gonone
Included: Breakfast

Day 6: From Cala Gonone to Siniscola | Cycling 85Km - +1700m / 52mi - +5577ft

The ride opens with a demanding climb. As the road rises, a series of bends offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape. After passing through the tunnel, the route joins the familiar SS 125, a key road for many cyclists riding the Sardinia Big Loop.

Turning inland, the ride heads toward Lula, a small and quiet town. Just beyond it, the scenery changes as Monte Albo appears. Its pale, rocky walls stretch to the horizon, and the road runs along their base, surrounded by greenery and open space.

The day ends with a fast and enjoyable 15 km descent, bringing you back to the sea and into Siniscola.

Overnight: Siniscola
Included: Breakfast

Day 7: From Siniscola to Cannigione | Cycling 110Km - +1300m / 68mi - +4265ft

The route enters the most visited part of Sardinia. The first stretch follows a scenic coastal road lined with resorts and expansive views of Tavolara Island, a striking limestone block rising straight from the sea.

Riding north, the landscape shifts into the heart of Gallura. Here, granite rocks shape the scenery, each with a distinct form. Vineyards, cork oak forests with deep red tones, and open countryside line the road.

The day ends in Cannigione, where clear waters and white beaches mark the edge of the Costa Smeralda. It’s a fitting stop after a ride through changing landscapes.

Overnight: Cannigione
Included: Breakfast

Day 8: From Cannigione to Castelsardo | Cycling 100Km - +1700m / 62mi - +5577ft

The route heads toward the Limbara area, crossing small villages and well-kept vineyards. After Aggius, the road drops into the Valle della Luna, an open landscape with sparse vegetation emerging from large granite formations. This valley connects Gallura with the Anglona area.

A long, gentle descent follows through quiet countryside, reaching Santa Maria Coghinas and then the coast at Valledoria. A short climb from the sea leads into Castelsardo, with a wide view over the Doria fortress set high on the cliffs.

Overnight: Castelsardo
Included: Breakfast

Day 9: From Castelsardo to Alghero | Cycling 80km - +500m / 49mi - +1640ft

Leaving Castelsardo, the route follows the coast westward, passing the long sandy beach of Platamona and reaching the historic town of Porto Torres, one of the island’s principal harbors.

From here, the ride turns inland across the Nurra, following quiet country roads until arriving in Alghero. The city’s compact old town, with narrow lanes and sea-facing walls, sets the scene for a relaxed evening by the water.

Overnight: Alghero
Included: Breakfast

Day 10: From Alghero to Cabras | Cycling 105Km - +1500m / 65mi - +4921ft

The ride begins along the west coast of Sardinia, heading south on a road that feels wide and dramatic, often compared to California’s Big Sur. The 45 km stretch between Alghero and Bosa is one of the most scenic routes on the island. The road runs high above the sea, almost like a balcony over the water, with volcanic hills rising behind you.

After a relaxed stop in colorful Bosa, the route turns inland and enters the Montiferru region. Here, the countryside feels untouched and quiet, with open views, grazing land, and only the sound of sheep bells.

The stage ends in Cabras, set among lagoons and known for its unique light and fishing traditions.

A local highlight is dinner with handmade pasta topped with bottarga, followed by fresh mullet from the lagoons.

Overnight: Cabras
Included: Breakfast

Day 11: From Cabras to Buggerru | Cycling 100Km - +1500m / 62mi - +4921ft

Another spectacular ride, passing on the Marceddì lagoon, a place that seems frozen in time. Then, the majestic Costa Verde (the Green Coast) is a compelling movie location, thanks to its old mining villages and sandy dunes. This is considered one of the wildest areas on the island.

The next stretch of your bike ride is about old mining villages, uphill, surrounded by Mediterranean shrubs, and sandy beaches with dunes that seem like deserts. A thrilling downhill finally brings you back to sea level before our last effort to get to Buggerru, an ancient mining village nestled in a cove on the coast. Here, you’ll have dinner at a local trattoria.

Overnight: Buggerru
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: From Buggerru to Sant'Antioco | Cycling 90Km - +990m / 55mi - +3248ft

The ride continues with the sea always close by. Leaving Buggerru, the road climbs toward Acquaresi, then drops in a long descent toward the blue waters of Masua. Along the way, the view opens onto Pan di Zucchero, the white limestone rock rising straight from the sea.

The route continues to Nebida, where a short walk along the panoramic seaside terrace is worth the stop. From here, the road drops again to Funtanamare and follows the coast to Portoscuso.

In Portoscuso, the first ferry of the day crosses to Carloforte, a small Mediterranean town shaped by Ligurian, African, and Sardinian influences. A second ferry then reaches Calasetta. A short ride brings you to Sant’Antioco, where the day comes to an end.

Overnight: Sant’Antioco
Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 13: From Sant'Antioco to Pula | Cycling 85Km - +990m / 53mi - +3248ft

This part of the tour shows how rich the south coast of Sardinia can be when explored by bike.

After a few kilometers, the route reaches the quiet village of Tratalias Vecchia, where the Romanesque-Pisan Cathedral of Tratalias stands out with clean lines and solid stonework. From here, the ride crosses the Sulcis countryside, passing artichoke fields and Carignano vineyards, a wine produced only in this part of the island.

Following a stop for a wine tasting and a picnic near the Is Zuddas Caves, the road turns back toward the sea. The coastline unfolds through hidden coves and old Spanish watchtowers, with constant views over water shifting between blue and green. The rolling section ends in Chia, home to one of Sardinia’s most striking beaches.

The final 15 km run through quiet countryside leads to Nora, a significant Phoenician settlement later developed by the Romans and a key site in the ancient Mediterranean world.

Overnight: Pula
Included: Breakfast

Day 14: Shuttle and departure from Cagliari

It’s time to say goodbye, but Sardinia often leaves a strong impression and the wish to return, here or on another bike tour with Mediterras.

After breakfast, we assist with bikes and luggage and arrange the shuttle to Cagliari Airport, about 30 minutes from Pula.

Ciao amici, a presto!

Bike tour price

Quote per Person

From € 2167

What's included

13 nights in charming and luxury hotels
13 breakfast
Welcome meeting and tour briefing on day 1
Maps, route notes and GPS tracks
Luggage transportation inn2inn
Telephone assistance
Transfer in/out from/to Cagliari airport

What's not included

Local Taxes (approx. 15 €)
Wine & beverages
Any Private Expenses

Supplements

Solo Traveller: + € 1260
Single room: + € 760 per personIncludes a single room and all tour services, such as private transfers and briefings.
High Season +600 € (Jun 21-Sep 06)

Complimentaries

Water bottle

Bikes

You can bring your own bike or rent one from us, we offer great bikes from selected Italian and international brands: road bikes, leisure cycling, mountain bikes, e-bikes, all in perfect working conditions. You can book your rental bike at the end of the reservation process.

Road bike +400 €
Road bike premium (Di2) +530 €
E-road bike +600 €
E-bike touring +400 €
Trekking bike +230 €
Gravel bike +400 €

Cancellation policy

more than 60 days:
100% refund of deposit
60 days to 30 days:
70% refund of the trip price will be made
29 days to 15 days:
50% refund of the trip price will be made
14 days to 0 days:
100% cancellation fee

A look at the Hotels on this Bike Tour

Don Pedro, Portoscuso
Nice and easy hotel for bikers in Portoscuso city center. Good restaurant, a perfect sea view, and is close to the ferry to Carloforte.

Portoscuso - Sardinia
Villa Madau
A boutique Hotel in Pula downtown in an old villa totally restored. Walking distance from Pula main square.

Pula - Sardinia
Villa Asfodeli
A charming 19 century restored villa, in Tresnuraghes

Tresnuraghes - Sardinia
MuMA Hostel
The MuMA is an Ecolabel hotel with a museum inside. Sea front and walking distance from the city center.

Sant'Antioco - Sardinia
Villa Piras
Sea view hotel with terrace, right on the way to Bosa. Walking distance from Alghero old town.

Alghero - Sardinia
Aquae Sinis
This charming hotel, close to Cabras cathedral, is created with taste and respecting local architecture.

Cabras - Sardinia
Rocce Bianche
Rocce Bianche farmhouse offers spacious rooms with wooden furniture and roof amidst a centuries-old cork oak forest. Enjoy the delicious restaurant and the refreshing pool.

Arbus - Sardinia