Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-guided Sardinia Coast-to-Coast e-Bike Tour
Discover the wild beauty, ancient traditions, and turquoise waters of northern Sardinia on this self-guided cycling journey from Alghero to Olbia. You will ride along coastal roads, through vineyard-dotted countryside, and into charming fishing villages, experiencing the island’s most iconic landscapes at your own pace.
Your adventure begins in Alghero, a Catalan-flavored town where narrow streets meet the sea. From there, you will pedal along the coast, past rugged cliffs and sandy coves, until you reach the whitewashed village of Stintino, gateway to the celebrated La Pelosa Beach and Asinara Island. The route continues across unspoiled countryside rich in vines and olive groves.
Along the way, you will explore the enchanting archipelago of La Maddalena, a sailor’s paradise of crystalline waters and hidden coves, easily reached by ferry from Palau. Each day brings a mix of scenic cycling, cultural discovery, and culinary indulgence, whether it’s fresh seafood in a harborside taverna or a simple slice of wood-fired pizza after the ride.
Evenings are spent in handpicked accommodations, from traditional village stays to stylish boutique hotels, always offering comfort and local charm. By the time you roll into Olbia, you will have experienced the very best of Sardinia’s northern coast, its natural splendor, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean spirit. This is a journey into Sardinia’s heart, one you will carry with you long after the ride ends.
Self-guided
Casual+ hotels
Alghero
Cannigione
moderate
56 km / 35 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Alghero–Fertilia International Airport (AHO)
Olbia Costa Smeralda (OLB)
Highlights
Coastal Beauty and Hidden Beaches
Cycle along Sardinia’s breathtaking northern coast, where rugged cliffs meet turquoise seas. Discover quiet coves, pristine beaches, and dramatic coastal roads.
Culture, History and Traditions
Experience Sardinia’s charm—quaint villages, lively piazzas, La Maddalena, and timeless traditions of food, wine, and hospitality.
Costa Smeralda and Island Adventures
Ride into the glamorous Costa Smeralda, renowned for its crystalline waters and elegant harbors. Take a ferry to the La Maddalena Archipelago, a paradise of hidden bays and pink beaches.
Ride to Asinara Island National Park
It is a journey into wild, untouched beauty, making cycling the best way to explore. You will pass through rugged coastlines, hidden coves, and rolling hills with rare wildlife such as the white donkey and a turtle rescue center.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual_plus Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Alghero | Hotel Calabona (4-Star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Alghero | Hotel Calabona (4-Star) | B | 55 km / 34 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Stintino | 103 Boutique Hotel Stintino | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Castelsardo | Baja Oglia Resort (4-Star) | B, D | 35 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Tempio | Hotel Pausania Inn | B | 76 km / 47 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | La Maddalena | Grand Hotel Ma&Ma Resort (5-Star) | B | 70 km / 43 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Cannigione | Sandalia Boutique Hotel (4-Star) | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Alghero
Welcome to Sardinia! Once you have settled in to your hotel, you will have your e-bike carefully fitted and adjusted to suit your needs.
With the rest of the day free, you can begin to discover Alghero, often called the “Little Barcelona of Sardinia.” Its Catalan heritage is still visible in the Gothic churches, defensive towers, and winding medieval streets.
Day 2: Alghero
Your adventure truly begins today! After breakfast, you will meet for a professional bike fitting. Every detail is adjusted—from pedals to handlebars—so your ride feels comfortable, efficient, and perfectly suited to you. Once your bike is ready, a short briefing introduces you to the journey ahead.
With everything set, it’s time to pedal into the landscapes surrounding Alghero. Today’s route winds through stunning Mediterranean scenery. You will cycle past Porto Conte Park, where the dramatic cliffs of Capo Caccia plunge into the sea. The fortress-like town of Alghero itself reveals its charm as you ride, with narrow streets, seaside ramparts, and echoes of its Catalan heritage.
In the evening, enjoy free time to soak up Alghero’s atmosphere. Stroll along the Bastioni at sunset, sip an aperitivo, and savor a delicious dinner in this lively coastal town.
Elevation: 600m
Day 3: Stintino
Today, you will set out on a scenic ride that follows the coastline north of Alghero before veering inland through rolling countryside dotted with vineyards. The route carries you toward Stintino, a charming fishing village perched at the far northwestern tip of Sardinia. By the time you arrive, usually around late afternoon, the town is alive with the aroma of wood-fired pizza and freshly grilled fish—perfect for your post-ride meal at one of the many local restaurants.
Stintino is famed for its turquoise waters and pristine beaches, especially the iconic La Pelosa, one of the Mediterranean’s true gems.
Elevation: 400m
Day 4: Castelsardo
Today’s adventure takes you to the unspoiled beauty of the Asinara Island National Park, a place that feels worlds away from mainland Sardinia. You will ride about 35 km, exploring an island once closed to the public for over a century due to its use as a prison. It is a National Park and Marine Protected Area, home to rare wildlife such as the white donkey and a turtle rescue center.
As you cycle, you will pass wild landscapes, deserted beaches, and historic prison sites like Cala d’Oliva and Fornelli. The crystal-clear waters of coves such as Cala Sabina and Cala d’Arena make the island even more unforgettable. With no cars or crowds, the silence and purity of this island will stay with you. After your visit, the ferry takes you back to Porto Torres, where a private transfer brings you comfortably to Castelsardo.
Elevation: 800m
Day 5: Tempio
Your journey digs deeper into the rugged heart of Gallura, where the winding mountain roads guide you toward the enchanting Granite Village of Aggius. Your ride takes you past the ancient Roman port of Baia Ostina, through rolling hills, and into the otherworldly Valle della Luna, a landscape of granite boulders that seems carved by giants. Soon, the stone-built houses of Aggius appear, their facades brightened with flowers, earning the village a place among the Borghi Autentici d’Italia and the prestigious Orange Flag of the Touring Club of Italy. Known for granite craftsmanship, woven carpets, and traditional fabrics,
Aggius also preserves strong cultural traditions, from evocative Holy Week processions to the famous town choir, once praised by Gabriele D’Annunzio. You will have the chance to explore its treasures, including the Ethnographic Museum, the Museum of Banditry, and the Nuraghe Izzana nearby, before settling into your welcoming stay.
Elevation: 1250m
Day 6: La Maddalena
Today, you set off with renewed energy to ride through the enchanting valleys of Gallura. The route from Aggius to Palau offers a mix of rolling landscapes and Mediterranean views before you board the ferry that will carry you across the turquoise waters to La Maddalena. Once ashore, the beauty of the archipelago will immediately reward your effort.
La Maddalena, a member of I Borghi Più Belli d’Italia, is a picturesque town of about 10,000 inhabitants, surrounded by islands such as Caprera, Santo Stefano, Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, and Razzoli. Declared a National Park, the archipelago is protected for its extraordinary natural heritage. Among its wonders is the Pink Beach of Budelli, whose rare sand is now preserved and admired only from a distance. La Maddalena also carries historic pride as the final home of Giuseppe Garibaldi, the legendary “hero of two worlds.”
Elevation: 515m
Day 7: Cannigione
Your final cycling day in northern Sardinia has arrived! Today’s ride takes you along the panoramic coastal road from Caprera to Palau, a short but scenic journey that brings you to the gateway of the world-famous Costa Smeralda. From the lively port, you will board the ferry bound for La Maddalena, an island of stunning beauty and timeless charm.
Elevation: 700m
Day 8: Departure
It’s time to say farewell, but not goodbye. With Sardinia’s beauty fresh in your mind, we say Arrivederci—until we meet again for another cycling journey across this unforgettable island.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
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Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Merida Speeder or similar
Included in your trip price
Haibike Trekking 5 or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Alghero, which is served by the Alghero–Fertilia International Airport with flight connectivity to all major Italian cities and select European capitals.
Departure
Your departure point is Cannigione. It is served by Olbia Costa Smeralda (OLB), just about 30–40 minutes away by taxi. You can use public buses that connect Cannigione (via Arzachena) to Olbia, which takes usually 1.5 to 2 hours.
Weather
Sardinia is blessed with sunshine and blue skies for much of the year. Summers are hot and dry, with July and August temperatures often reaching up to 40°C—better suited to beach relaxation than long rides. The best time for cycling is spring and autumn, when mild, sunny days (20–25°C) create perfect conditions for exploring the island’s diverse landscapes.
April, May, September, and October strike the ideal balance of warmth and comfort, with blooming flowers in spring and golden light in autumn. Winter is cooler and less predictable, but rarely extreme. Rainfall is low overall, though March and late October can bring occasional unsettled weather.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Good
April
Best
May
Best
June
Good
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Best
October
Best
November
Good
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Yes, we can provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Yes, panniers will be provided.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
