Sardinia and Corsica Guided E-Bike Tour - 13 days
E-Bike hire - €460
Since room surcharge - €1250
Overview
Sardinia and Corsica — two beautiful islands, two countries, three ferry crossings, a mix of several unique cultures and of course great cycling. An e-bike trip not to be missed!
On our journey along the western shorelines of both islands, we have blended Tour de France stages with rides for anyone to enjoy.
This itinerary offers great cycling as well as plenty of opportunities for relaxation! We stay two nights at most hotels, with many being close to the beach. You can cycle shorter or longer distances as preferred and on ‘loop’ days you are always welcome to skip a ride and spend time exploring the local sights or soaking up the Mediterranean climate on dreamy beaches.
The cultures of the two islands are many and varied. Both islands have been very independent from their respective mainlands (France for Corsica and Italy for Sardinia). They have developed their own languages, cuisines, architecture and cultural identities. Both islands have been shaped by the great empires that have attempted to rule the Mediterranean over the last 3000 years. Sardinia is geologically the most ancient landmass of Europe and both islands have been continuously settled since the Mesolithic era (10,000–5,000 BC). In Sardinia from about 1500 BC onwards, villages were built around round tower-fortresses called nuraghi. We will have the opportunity to visit some of the many excavations of the nuraghic civilisation on our tour. On this bike trip we focus on the more rugged — and sometimes wetter — west coasts of the two islands. The coastal rides are spectacular, and often feature wild mountains in the hinterland. It is not surprising that a land as old as Sardinia was searched for minerals and coal from the earliest times of human civilisation. Interesting 18th and 19th century mine sites can be visited on our tour — yet another point of difference on this already diverse cycling experience. Have we mentioned the beaches? I guess you’ll just have to come and see them for yourself!
Highlights
Culture: Sardinia and Corsica's cultural landscape of combined French and Italian heritage.
Nature: Impressive scenic cliffs, beautiful beaches, quaint coves, rocky crags, shallow bays and long sandy beaches
Activity: Explore the town of Bonifacio, the Mines of Montevecchio and the famous Capo Caccia
Culinary: Lamb, wild boar, seafood and the Corsican charcuterie.
Souvenir: Sardinian Filigree jewelry and a Corsican cookbook
Tour Gallery
Full Itinerary
Arrival In Cagliari (Sardinia)
Welcome to Cagliari, Sardinia - the start of our tour. The best way to travel to Cagliari is by air. The airport is located about 7 km from the town centre and is serviced by a number of different airlines. Please make your own way from the airport to the hotel. After you have settled in we will meet for a tour briefing and welcome dinner. Until then you are free to explore the city's picturesque historical district, elegant shopping streets, parks and stunning coastline. With its wealth of history, art and culture, consider arriving a day or two early to fully appreciate this destination.
Cycling Distance: 0km
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Cagliari
Cagliari to Carloforte
Today starts with a 50km van transfer from your hotel to Chia where you will have a bike fitting before starting our first ride. From here the undulating journey promises to be outstanding, passing rugged coastlines, ancient fortified watchtowers, secluded sandy coves and expansive beaches. At Teulada Harbour, the clear waters are reminiscent of the Caribbean, while the region's characteristic Mediterranean flora and juniper trees confirm your presence in Sardinia. Later we should see pink flamingos near the salt mines as we cross an artificial isthmus to Sant’Antioco with its Roman ruins and charming promenade. We can visit the picturesque village of Calasetta before boarding a ferry to Isola di San Pietro, just 7 km off the Sardinian coast. Carloforte, the only village on the island is a charming Genoese-style fishing village with a vibrant harbour and tranquil historic centre. Here you will find local specialties and also encounter the local Genovese dialect.
Cycling Distance: 79km or 100km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Carloforte
San Pietro Island (Loop Ride)
Starting from the hotel an optional loop ride around the island is on offer today. There will be sweeping scenery as you traverse the wild, rugged landscape, seemingly in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. We'll stop at some of the many beaches and cliffs such as Cala Fico. Take in the breathtaking views of the open sea and the scent of the Mediterranean from the magnificent lighthouse at Capo Sandalo. Once back in Carloforte, you will have time to sample the cuisine at a local restaurant with appetising seafood-based menus paired with the fine wines of Sulcis.
Cycling Distance: 43km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Carloforte
Carloforte to Guspini
The day begins with a pleasant 30 minute ferry ride from Carloforte to the modern industrial port of Portoscuso. From here we'll ride to the village of Gonnesa before tackling the fantastic climb to Nebida which overlooks the imposing Pan di Zucchero, a 133 metre high rock formation with twin natural arches. Our coastal route now unfolds with beautiful vistas of expansive beaches and rugged headlands linking former mining towns. After about 14 km, we'll head inland and tackle the winding and scenic hills of Monte Cidro, crossing a natural pass that leads towards Arbus and Montevecchio, once thriving mining villages. After resting at the pass and taking in the views, its a welcome descent into Arbus. Then continue past the mine of Montevecchio, now an important site of industrial archaeology, before a final scenic descent to our destination of Guspini.
Cycling Distance: 48km or up to 82km
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Guspini
Guspini to Santa Caterina Di Pittinuri
We have the option to cycle from the hotel or take a 30km van transfer to the Oristano Gulf area. If we start from the hotel (the 90km option) we'll ride inland, passing through the many fields that characterise this region, to the old fishing village of Marceddì (the start of the 60km option). From here, we continue cycling through a mixture of flat and gently rolling terrain to the fertile farmland area of Arborea and onwards to Oristano. After a stop to admire the town's beautiful architecture we’ll continue our ride past many Punic and Roman ruins and the crystalline water and sandy beaches of this area. We'll stop for lunch at the famous natural arch in S’Archittu. This afternoon's ride finishes in Santa Caterina di Pittinuri, a picturesque seaside village perched on Montiferru's cliffs where you will find the 16th century tower of Pittinuri.
Cycling Distance: 60km or 90km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Santa Caterina Di Pittinuri
Santa Caterina Di Pittinuri to Alghero
Today’s ride starts the hotel. Heading north from Santa Caterina, we’ll ride inland through the unique Mediterranean bush, characterised by small trees and shrubs.Then we head back to the coast and stop for lunch at the town of Bosa, located along the estuary of the Temo River. After lunch, we’ll continue along the coast, encountering beautiful, unspoiled beaches and wild landscapes. The scenery here is breathtaking. Our destination today is Alghero - a lively and pretty city that is a flourishing tourist attraction. Alghero is a unique Mediterranean and medieval citadel, known for being a coastal Coral Riviera. Its seabed is one of the richest in coral fauna in the world. The city’s many shops, bars, and restaurants are a constant reminder of this special ‘gemstone,’ with decorations featuring characteristic red, pink, and sky-blue jewels.
Cycling Distance: 80km
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Alghero
Capo Caccia (Loop Ride)
From the charming city of Alghero, we'll ride north through the exquiste Vermentino wine region. In this area known as Nurra, the wind blows directly from the northwest, preventing plants from growing more than a few metres tall. Today, we have the opportunity to visit Capo Caccia, where sheer cliffs are scattered with amazing caves and ravines both above and beneath the clear turquoise sea. The Grotta di Nettuno, located beneath the Capo Caccia promontory, can be reached by sea or by descending the many steps of the Escala dei Caribol, which drops some 110 metres. These caverns are made even more atmospheric by the presence of stalactites and stalagmites.
Cycling Distance: 53km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Alghero
Alghero to Castelsardo to Bonifacio ( Corsica)
We'll begin with a 70km van transfer to the well preserved medieval town of Castelsardo. Perched high above the sea, it has been protected from attacks and destruction due to its advantageous geographical position. From here it's a pleasant undulating ride amongst rolling hills and through several villages, offering plenty of opportunity for a coffee stop. After about 52km we’ll aim to stop at Vignola Mare for lunch at the beach. Depending on our timing, we’ll either ride or transfer the final 25 km to Santa Teresa Gallura - the ferry port to Corsica located at the northern tip of Sardinia. After a one hour ferry ride we'll arrive in Bonifacio with its impressive natural harbour. Built by the Genoese, Bonifacio has a rich history. It’s a fascinating place to explore, with its busy marina filled with luxury yachts and streets lined with chic bars and restaurants.
Cycling Distance: up to 71km
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Bonifacio
Bonifacio to Porto Vecchio to Bonifacio
Leaving Bonifacio - perched atop dramatic limestone cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea - we ride from the hotel along winding coastal roads with spectacular views of the turquoise waters below. The rugged coastline is punctuated by hidden coves and pristine beaches, offering ample opportunities to stop and admire the natural beauty. As we cycle inland, the landscape changes to rolling hills dotted with fragrant maquis shrubland. The air is filled with the scent of wild herbs, including thyme, rosemary, and lavender, enhancing the sensory experience of our journey. The scenery is interspersed with ancient stone walls and rustic farmhouses, providing glimpses of traditional Corsican life. Arriving in Porto Vecchio, we’ll be greeted by a picturesque harbour bustling with activity. The town’s historic centre is a maze of narrow alleys and charming squares dotted with cafes and boutiques. You'll have free time for lunch in the old town before being transferred back to Bonifacio.
Cycling Distance: Up to 58km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bonifacio
Bonifacio to Propriano
Today we head northeast from Bonifacio towards our destination in Propriano. The route is pleasantly flat alongside the sea allowing us to admire beautiful, long stretches of coastline and wild landscapes. We have the option to stop for lunch along the way or in Sartene, about 50 km into our journey. Propriano, with its fascinating history of pirate attacks in the 18th century, is now a safe and picturesque tourist haven. Later today, you may like to explore the town centre which is largely one long main street with traditional houses that are now occupied by luxury shops, cafes and bars.
Cycling Distance: 68km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Propriano
Propriano to Porticcio
This morning we’ll cycle along coastal roads with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The azure waters contrast beautifully with the rugged coastline, where towering cliffs and golden beaches create a dramatic backdrop for our ride. Fragrant herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and myrtle perfume the air. Along the way, we’ll pass through charming villages where traditional stone houses cling to the hillsides, providing glimpses of Corsican culture and heritage. Arriving in Porticcio, we’ll be greeted by the bustling waterfront lined with cafes and restaurants. The town’s sandy beaches and palm-lined promenades provide the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a rewarding day of cycling as the sun sets over the Mediterranean Sea.
Cycling Distance: 55km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Porticcio
Coti-Chiavari (Loop Ride) and Ajaccio visit
From Porticcio our ride starts along the coast before turning inland. On winding roads through rolling hills and lush valleys we'll explore the beautiful Corsican countryside with its charming villages nestled amidst olive groves and vineyards. On arriving in Propriano, our van will be waiting to transfer us to Ajaccio where we can wander around the alleyways of Corsica's capital city. This evening we'll celebrate the end of our tour with a farewell dinner.
Cycling Distance: 56km
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Departure from Porticcio
Today we say goodbye, au revoir and arrivederci. We hope that you had the trip of a lifetime on this scenic journey through the two islands of Sardinia and Corsica. Please make your own departure arrangements (the nearest airport is at Ajaccio).
Cycling Distance: 0km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Download the Itinerary PDF here
All distances are approximate. Our tours often go off the beaten track and follow routes that are not always predictable. We cannot always guarantee the weather. For these reasons we may occasionally have to update our itineraries. We will only do this to improve your experience or for safety reasons. Our listed accommodation is always accurate at the time of writing but should we need to change you can rest assured that it will be for similar or better. Display price may differ to what is quoted as this tour is invoiced in the currency stated, and can be dynamic with daily exchange rates.
The Details
- 12 nights in 3–4 star hotels (double or twin share)
- Meals listed: 12 x breakfasts, 7 x picnic lunches, 7 x dinners
- Support vehicle: size of vehicle dependent on group size
- Driver/guide (group size 4-6), additional cycling guide (group size 7+)
- All ferry crossings listed in the itinerary
- Drinking water while cycling
- International and domestic flights or airport taxes
- Passport and travel visa (if required)
- Arrival and departure transfers
- E-bike hire (extra cost)
- Single room surcharge
- Optional activity costs
- Personal expenses and drinks (except water while cycling)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guide(s) and support crew.
This trip is for the recreational cyclist looking for a bit more of a challenge. There will be some longer days and hills on this tour (although you can always get an extra boost on your E-Bike if you need it).
You will need a good level of fitness and cycling experience.
Note: There are several "loop" days on this tour as well as days where you can choose to add an extra ride - making the difficulty flexible to suit your energy levels on the day.
If you're unsure about anything, please see our FAQs page for extra information.
FAQsBooking information
Participants will be asked to complete a booking form after confirmation of their booking.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
To ensure the trip's viability with our suppliers, a minimum of typically 2 participants is usually required. Upon submitting your booking request, we will provide specifics regarding minimum numbers. Following trip confirmation, you may proceed with flight bookings and other travel arrangements. A ‘Limited’ trip status signifies limited spaces available. For trip status inquiries, kindly email or call our office.
DEPOSITS AND PAYMENTS
A deposit is required to secure your place on your selected tour departure. On receipt of your deposit, Global Cycling Adventures will email you a confirmation to verify your travel arrangements and advise final payment details. The final payment is normally required 60 days before departure date unless otherwise specified.
CANCELLATIONS & AMENDMENTS
All tour cancellations will require notification in writing to Global Cycling Adventures by the person participating on the tour. Please be advised that booking cancellations or amendments will incur relevant fees. Cancellation charges are tour-specific and timing-dependent. For a comprehensive outline of our terms and conditions, including the cancellation policy, please refer to the travel proposal provided by our team.
We recommend that you purchase cancellation insurance on payment of your tour deposit in case unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel your tour.
OVERSEAS JURISDICTION AND TERMS
For all overseas tours, the terms and conditions, laws, and jurisdiction of the destination country will apply. By booking a tour with us, you acknowledge and agree that local regulations, industry practices, and terms specific to the destination country may supersede or modify our standard terms. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with all applicable local laws and regulations while participating in the tour.
Explore Related Adventures
Don't just take our word for it
I thought the Island of Corsica was the highlight. Cycling predominately near the coastline,and the deep blue of the Mediteranean was very picturesque. Looking forward to the next trip.
Graeme Oakley
Excellent tour great to have 2 days at some places! Good mates and loads of fun! Rene was amazing - seems to really enjoy seeing the regular faces, always cheerful and ready to help!
Helene Hudson
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