Skip to main content

Diagonal bike tour

Highlights

A road biking tour along one of Sardinia's most beautiful 'diagonals': from the northwest to the central east. We can explore even more by crossing the island on this diagonal route!

  • Number of days: 8
  • Level: Enthusiast
  • Tour code: DAC-25
  • Price from: € 1180

Support levels

Guided tours: expand to see inclusions

Support level

Guiding. Van assistance. Group transfers from Alghero airport to Alghero; group transfers from Cala Gonone to Olbia. Luggage transport. 10% discount on bike rentals.

Accommodation

2 nights at 4-star | 4 nights at 3-star | 1 night in an Agriturismo

Meals

Four dinners; all breakfasts.

Not included

Flight tickets; extras in hotel, etc. Drinks during the dinner; city tax (if any); travel insurance; individual arrival and departure transfer; bike rental.

Upon request

Individual transfer from Alghero airport to Alghero € 40 p.p.; individual transfer from Cala Gonone to Olbia airport € 250 p.p.; individual transfer from Cala Gonone to Alghero airport 290 p.p.; single accommodation € 300 p.p.; bike rental.

Self guided tours: expand to see inclusions

Support level

Detailed briefing. Access to SardiniaCycling App. Telephone assistance during your stay. 10% discount on bike rentals.

Accommodation

2 nights at 4-star | 4 nights at 3-star | 1 night in an Agriturismo

Meals

Four dinners; all breakfasts.

Not included

Flight tickets; extras in hotel, etc; drinks during the dinner; city tax (if any); travel insurance; arrival and departure transfer; bike rental; luggage transport.

Upon request

Transfer from Alghero airport to Alghero € 40 p.p.; transfer from Cala Gonone to Olbia airport € 250 p.p.; transfer from Cala Gonone to Alghero airport 290 p.p.; single accommodation € 300 p.p.; bike rental; luggage transport (€ 749 + 10 per pax).

Supported tours: expand to see inclusions

Support level

Detailed briefing. Access to SardiniaCycling App. Van assistance. Group transfers from Alghero airport to Alghero. Group transfers from Cala Gonone to Olbia. Luggage transport. 10% discount on bike rentals.

Accommodation

2 nights at 4-star | 4 nights at 3-star | 1 night in an Agriturismo

Meals

Four dinners; all breakfasts.

Not included

Flight tickets; extras in hotel, etc; drinks during the dinner; city tax (if any); travel insurance; individual arrival and departure transfer; bike rental.

Upon request

Individual transfer from Alghero airport to Alghero € 40 p.p.; individual transfer from Cala Gonone to Olbia airport € 250 p.p.; individual transfer from Cala Gonone to Alghero airport 290 p.p.; single accommodation € 300 p.p.; bike rental.

Technical facts

  • Number of stages:

    6

  • Total distance:

    493.50 KM

  • Total elevation:

    9,600 M

Description

Click here to expand our trip presentation!

Dream a dream with us. Picture this: gravel bikes beneath us, venturing into the untouched wilderness, far from the humdrum of cars, crowds, rules, work and pressure.

Dream a journey that unfolds on roads that demand our undivided attention, directing it towards the beauty of nature, the serenity of silence, the rhythmic cadence of our pedals, and the steady thump of our heartbeats.

Our dream destination? Sardinia, explored on gravel bikes. You'll explore the wild Ogliastra, the traditional Barbagia and focus on the Gennargentu massif.

An immersive experience that weaves us back into the fabric of nature, offering an escape from the mundane to a realm that feels like an entirely different planet.

Here, fatigue is not a hindrance but a cherished reward, a cold beer serves as the ultimate electrolyte, and goat cheese becomes the energy bar of choice. We meticulously planned this tour on a map, yet nothing could have prepared us for the sheer thrill as our wheels traced the lines during the first tour rehearsal. By the end of it, we realized this wasn't just another Sardinia trip: it was an Epic Gravel Adventure. Crafted meticulously, our trip mirrors this dream. It's a challenge, yet not a merciless one – a journey feasible for most, especially those enamored with the art of gravel biking. The route is circular, ensuring that where you commence is precisely where you'll conclude. It's a wild adventure, navigating asphalt roads devoid of traffic and gravel paths that accommodate the capabilities of a gravel bike. Set against the backdrop of a unique region in Sardinia, this journey unfolds in an area where the meeting of breathtaking sea and untouched mountains is nothing short of spectacular. Accommodations are carefully chosen, favoring small family hotels and agriturismo, strengthening the bond between you and the surroundings. In the end, our aim is for you to reflect on the trip for an entire year, savoring the highlights of an adventure that beckons you to relive it again and again. Ride and dream with us!

Here, fatigue is not a hindrance but a cherished reward, a cold beer serves as the ultimate electrolyte, and goat cheese becomes the energy bar of choice. We meticulously planned this tour on a map, yet nothing could have prepared us for the sheer thrill as our wheels traced the lines during the first tour rehearsal. By the end of it, we realized this wasn't just another Sardinia trip: it was an Epic Gravel Adventure. Crafted meticulously, our trip mirrors this dream. It's a challenge, yet not a merciless one – a journey feasible for most, especially those enamored with the art of gravel biking. The route is circular, ensuring that where you commence is precisely where you'll conclude. It's a wild adventure, navigating asphalt roads devoid of traffic and gravel paths that accommodate the capabilities of a gravel bike. Set against the backdrop of a unique region in Sardinia, this journey unfolds in an area where the meeting of breathtaking sea and untouched mountains is nothing short of spectacular. Accommodations are carefully chosen, favoring small family hotels and agriturismo, strengthening the bond between you and the surroundings. In the end, our aim is for you to reflect on the trip for an entire year, savoring the highlights of an adventure that beckons you to relive it again and again. Ride and dream with us!

Here, fatigue is not a hindrance but a cherished reward, a cold beer serves as the ultimate electrolyte, and goat cheese becomes the energy bar of choice. We meticulously planned this tour on a map, yet nothing could have prepared us for the sheer thrill as our wheels traced the lines during the first tour rehearsal. By the end of it, we realized this wasn't just another Sardinia trip: it was an Epic Gravel Adventure. Crafted meticulously, our trip mirrors this dream. It's a challenge, yet not a merciless one – a journey feasible for most, especially those enamored with the art of gravel biking. The route is circular, ensuring that where you commence is precisely where you'll conclude. It's a wild adventure, navigating asphalt roads devoid of traffic and gravel paths that accommodate the capabilities of a gravel bike. Set against the backdrop of a unique region in Sardinia, this journey unfolds in an area where the meeting of breathtaking sea and untouched mountains is nothing short of spectacular. Accommodations are carefully chosen, favoring small family hotels and agriturismo, strengthening the bond between you and the surroundings. In the end, our aim is for you to reflect on the trip for an entire year, savoring the highlights of an adventure that beckons you to relive it again and again. Ride and dream with us!

Day 1: Welcome to Sardinia

Arrival at Alghero airport, transfer to Alghero, check-in and welcome.
Accommodation:
4-star hotel
Meals:
Breakfast

Day 2: From Alghero to Santu Lussurgiu

A stage of medium-high difficulty level, which boils down to a unique and unforgettable ride featuring some of the best Sardinia has to offer. Durring the beginning of the day, we’ll enjoy magnificent views of the coastline. Toward the middle of the ride, we’ll experience uncontaminated countryside including the lovely San Leonardo forest. The last stretch of the day has a 13 km long climb. After a challenging stage, we’ll enjoy a wonderful dinner and a well-earned sleep at hotel in Santu Lussurgiu.
Distance: 85.4km
Elevation gain: 1,956m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 5h
Accommodation:
3-star hotel
Meals:
Breakfast, dinner

Day 3: From Santu Lussurgiu to Belvì

This stage begins with a trio of descents that lead us out the area known as Montiferru. After riding along the Tirso river we enter Barbagia, the mountainous inner heart of Sardinia. As we gain altitude we can begin seeing the mountains and begin experiencing a countryside where nature dictates the rhythm of life. We continue to weave our way up through the pristine green forests of Barbagia. After arriving at Belvì, one of the few centers in Sardinia dedicated to mountain tourism, we will have dinner and then sleep comfortably at the hotel.
Distance: 91.3km
Elevation gain: 1,940m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 5h
Accommodation:
3-star hotel
Meals:
Breakfast, dinner

Day 4: From Belvì to Orroli

Starting the day out heading south, we soon pass through Gadoni and are greeted by a wonderful descent with hairpin turns that leads to the Flumendosa river. The Flumendosa is very important as it collects water in the Barbagia and brings it to the south of the island. In doing so it has carved out the gorge we must now climb out of. This section of road brings us up into the Addoli forest before descending down to the Lower Flumendosa lake. We must once again climb to bring us to our destination, Orroli. Before we stop for the day we will visit the Arrubiu Nuraghe, which is a mere 5 km from our hotel.
Distance: 76.8km
Elevation gain: 1,382m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 3,50h
Accommodation:
3-star hotel
Meals:
Breakfast, dinner

Day 5: From Orroli to Villanova Strisaili

This stage is one of the jewels of the tour – an unforgettable must-ride. The majority of the riding is above 900 m in one of the wildest areas on the island. It’s one of the few places where you can still enjoy countryside without a hint of man's presence. It'd be the best apetizer before having dinner and sleeping in an agriturismo.
Distance: 93.1km
Elevation gain: 1,975m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 4,30h
Accommodation:
Agriturismo
Meals:
Breakfast, dinner

Day 6: From Villanova Strisaili to Arbatax

After four days in the mountains, we meet the sea again, this time on the east coast of Sardinia. The first stretch on this stage is relaxing with easy ups and downs in the Supramonte of Talana mountains. A Supramonte is a mountainous complex, which is divided according to the municipal areas in which it falls. It's by definition an uninhabited and wild area. In Sardinia is synonimous with unspoilt nature because of its harsh environment. A paradise for us cyclists that we can enjoy kilometrs of quiet roads and primordial nature. Finally we ride a fun and scenic downhill to the long flat stretch that separates us from the coast. Overnight in Arbatax.
Distance: 73.9km
Elevation gain: 921m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 4h
Accommodation:
3-star hotel
Meals:
Breakfast

Day 7: From Arbatax to Cala Gonone

This stage wraps up the whole tour with a spectacular range of scenery. The Supramonte of Baunei features limestone rocks hosting Mediterranean vegetation. After a medium long ascent at the beginning of the stage, the road levels out for a while before leading to the final climb of the tour. Fortunately it features a low gradient which enables us to admire the majestic rock formations of this part of Sardinia. Its all down hill from here, a 25 km decscent into Cala Gonone to be exact. Time to celebrate the end of an unforgettable trip. Overnight here next to the beach.
Distance: 72km
Elevation gain: 1,396m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 3,45h
Accommodation:
4-star hotel
Meals:
Breakfast

Day 8: Goodbye Sardinia

Transfer to Alghero/Olbia airport and end of services.





Dates and prices

Support levelDeparturePriceBook now
Support level: Guided group tour
Price for min 6 people
Departure: 05 September 2025
Price: € 1970
Book now:
Support level: Self guided | early season
Departure: Apr 10 - Jun 21, 2025
Price: € 1230
Book now:
Support level: Self guided | late season
Departure: Sep 1 - Nov 15, 2025
Price: € 1180
Book now:
Support level: Supported tour
Price for min 6 people
Departure: Apr 20 - Jun 20, 2025 | Sep 1 - Nov 15, 2025
Price: € 1680
Book now:

Bike rental service

the SardiniaCycling way...

Unlike most tour companies, we operate an in-house rental service, offering top-quality bikes tailored to enhance your journey. We believe that the right bike can turn a great trip into an unforgettable one. Instead of prescribing a specific model, we invite you to choose the bike that best suits your riding style from a wide range of platforms, models, and sizes. To make things even easier, when you book your trip, you’ll receive a 10% discount code to apply to your bike rental.

Plnning for your next Diagonal bike tour

We suggest the following arrival and departure locations. The earlier flights will help us arranging transfers or other activities such as bike rental formalities, bike fitting and all services that are provided individually.
  • Best landing airport
    Alghero
  • Best departure airport
    Olbia
Transfer time from airport to hotels is about 15 minutes on landing, 1.30h on departure.

Logistics

Packing and Weather

Sardinia is a region known for mild Mediterranean weather. It generally features warm, dry weather which makes these rides particularly enjoyable. The spring and fall can see the highs range from the 18s to 25s (Celsius), while the lows are generally between 14 and 18. Summer highs are generally between 28 and 25. We always recommend bringing along riding layers and even a bit of rain (might happen in Spring and Fall) gear so you can keep riding comfortably throughout the day.

Transfers

Sardinia Cycling arranges group transfers from and to the closest airport for the trip: Alghero (arrival) / Olbia (departure). Individual transfers can be also planned and the cost might depend from the departure or arrival location, from the transfer time and it can also be influenced by the presence of bulky luggage, like a bike case. Other transport option is public transport. About this last opportunity, we suggest you using Google Maps and select 'public transport' from and to your selected destination. In any case, we're ready to help you selecting the quicker, smoother and most cost effective solution.

Go Custom

Sometimes your trip on Sardinia simply isn’t long enough! Extend your stay for the best vacation possible. If you wish to spend a few days in our lovely island either before or after your trip, and need assistance making those plans, we're available help. Self guided and supported trips can be extended too and that can happen in any intermediate location along the itinerary: we can help selecting the best one!

Terrain

One thing riders learn soon is that Sardinia is hilly. The terrain is varied, with gradual and short, or very long and progressive climbs throughout the week. The Gravel Ring is best suited for our 'Challenge' riders. The routes have been designed to avoid busy roadways, that are very rare in a large and sparsely populated island. However, very little urban riding and short sections of busy roads are unavoidable in Sardinia.There are a few hundred meters on single trail as well has a few short section where carrying the bike is needed: it's little and for a good reason!

Map view


Let's talk

Help us making your holiday on Sardinia unforgettable!


Newsletter signup

Location

SARDINIACYCLING HOME
Via Vittorio Emanuele, 27
09045 Quartu Sant'Elena | Italy

Contact

Office: +39 070 204 1029
Mobile: +345 541 8808
Mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.