Cycling and Cooking in Sardinia

Day 1: Arrival in Alghero

Arrive at your first hotel, with a 2pm welcome meeting, bike fitting, and test ride.

The Sardinian city of Alghero is a lively, pretty location with flourishing tourist attractions bolstered by the city's sun-kissed, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Alghero has historically been dominated by Catalans and, here, some people still speak the Catalan language. Admire the Mura Catalane (Catalan Walls) still surrounding the old city center on the seaward side, gazing up at the towers, before savoring a sunset drink in town. In the afternoon, you will attend your first cooking class. Dinner included at Agriturismo Agave.
Overnight in Alghero.

Day 2: Loop ride around Capo Caccia and Vermentino wine area
35 mi/56 km, rolling hills

Leaving the pretty city of Alghero and heading north, you'll ride into the verdant Vermentino wine area. In this region, called Nurra, the wind blows directly from the northwest, meaning the plants can only grow a few meters tall. If you have time, you'll visit Capo Caccia - calcareous rocks with hidden caves and ravines hiding a mysterious world above the turquoise sea.

The area of Punta di Giglio and Capo Caccia is an underwater cave paradise. Here, the Grotta di Nettuno, under the spur of Capo Caccia, is reachable by sea or by descending the many steps of the Escala dei Cabriol, which are about 110 meters. You'll discover caverns made all the more atmospheric by the presence of stalactites and stalagmites.

Cycle back along the same route to Alghero. In the evening you will enjoy a special gourmet dinner, treated to local Catalan cuisine within the old city walls.
Overnight in Alghero.

Day 3: Bosa & Tresnuraghes the Medieval Hilltown, Culurgiones ravioli
28-36 mi/60 km, rolling hills to hilly

Embark on today's cycling adventure along the stunning Sardinian coastline towards Bosa. The route reveals the coastal scrub, a mesmerizing tapestry of evergreen shrubs including mastic, lentisk, and rockroses. The salty breeze mingles with the scent of vibrant flora, creating a sensory symphony. Rugged cliffs stand tall against the azure sea, painting a dramatic backdrop to your journey.

Arriving in Bosa, you'll be welcomed by a picturesque riverside town adorned with swaying palm trees, fragrant citrus groves, and bursts of color from bougainvillea and oleander. This charming oasis is a stark contrast to the coastal landscapes you've traversed, offering a serene ambiance. Bosa is famed for its vivid facades, each telling a unique story, and the grandeur of Malaspina Castle, a historic treasure trove waiting for your exploration.

Conclude your bike ride in Tresnuraghes, nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Sardinian countryside. Here, the landscape transforms into a tranquil panorama of cork oaks, ancient olive groves, and lush vineyards, embracing you in its bucolic charm.

Prepare yourself for the second culinary adventure of the day with your cooking class at Villa Asfodeli, where you'll dive into the art of Sardinian cuisine. Get ready to create delectable dishes infused with local flavors, ensuring a delightful and memorable experience. This evening, you will have dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Overnight in Tresnuraghes.

Day 4: Tresnuraghes loop
32 mi/52 km, rolling hills

Today's route follows a scenic loop beginning and ending in Tresnuraghes, a village perched on the border of the Planargia and Montiferru regions. Located at this cultural crossroads, you will find a rich tapestry of archaeology and history just a short distance away from the western coastline.

Today you will pedal through serene landscapes lined with olive groves and fragrant Mediterranean shrubland. You will visit the enchanting village of Tinnura with it's vibrant murals and quiet, artistic charm. Finally you will pass through a patchwork of vineyards and orchards lined with peaceful hamlets that feel frozen in time. Today, you will enjoy a wine tasting and a masterclass in authentic pizza making!
Overnight in Tresnuraghes.

Day 5:Tresnuraghes to Oristano
38 mi/62 km, downhill and flat terrain

Begin your cycling expedition in Tresnuraghes, a charming village nestled amidst the rolling hills of Sardinia's western coast. Pedal through this serene countryside and small villages, where lush vineyards, fragrant citrus groves, and majestic cork oak forests paint the landscape. The air is perfumed with the scent of wildflowers, creating a sensory delight.

Your day ride unfolds in the tranquil village of Riola Sardo, surrounded by serene farmlands here you will take part in the olive oil tasting.Continue toward the Sinis Peninsula before the adventure culminates in Oristano, with a captivating historic center. Dinner at a local restaurant in Oristano.
Overnight in Torre Grande di Oristano.

Day 6: Ancient shores along the Tharros Loop
31 mi/50 km, flat terrain

Set off on a captivating coastal loop which draws you toward the Sinis Peninsula, where history meets the horizon. This ride is largely flat and incredibly scenic, making it the perfect blend of easy pedaling and profound discovery.

Enjoy breezy, sun-drenched paths with continuous views of the Mediterranean Sea. Step inside 2000 years of history at the Tharros open-air museum. Once a Nuragic settlement, this site evolved into a Phoenician trading hub, a Roman urbs, and eventually a Byzantine capital. Finally you will reach San Salvatore, a uniquely peaceful village made famous by its cinematic Old West atmosphere.
Overnight in Torre Grande di Oristano.

Day 7: Departure

After a farewell breakfast, transfer to the Oristano train station from which you can reach Cagliari.

Don't want the adventure to end? Consider taking a cycling day tour in another of our Italian locations.