Epic Sardinia 25

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Highlights

The goal of this renowned road biking trip is to bring together only the most beautiful, wild, and unique Sardinian roads—the ones we love most.

Number of days: 8

Level: Challenge

Tour code: EPIC-25

Support levels

Guided tours: expand to see inclusions

Support level

Guiding. Van assistance. Group transfers from/to Cagliari airport. Luggage transport. 10% discount on bike rentals.

Accommodation

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

Meals

Seven dinners; All breakfast.

Not included

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

Upon request

Individual transfer from Cagliari airport to Arbatax € 220 p.p.; individual transfer from Quartu to Cagliari airport € 35. Single accommodation € 290 p.p.; bike rental.

Self guided tours: expand to see inclusions

Only available as guided group tour

Supported tours: expand to see inclusions

Only available as guided group tour

Technical facts

Number of stages:
6
Total distance:
567.9 KM
Total elevation:
11,062 M

Description

Click here to expand our trip presentation!

The new Epic Sardinia is something we've been thinking about since September, right as we were riding the (now) older version. And that's always been incredibly helpful, as it allows us to hear firsthand impressions from the riders, what they liked the most, but also to listen to ourselves as guides, because we also have our own preferences for rides and hotels. The goal is to improve wherever possible and find a common thread that connects the stages. This edition will be the celebrated Blue Zone edition, with lots of cycling in the famous and wild mountain landscapes of Ogliastra and Barbagia, two of the most iconic areas of the island. As usual, it consists of six stages with elevation profiles and routes that test and highlight the abilities of a dedicated cyclist. It’s not an easy ride. It’s designed to maximize cycling enthusiasts’ expectations of what top-tier cycling is all about.

The first Epic Sardinia edition was designed without commercial considerations. The sole focus was to put together only the nicest, wildest, and most exceptional roads: the ones we love the most. The result was... Epic.

And because it was designed to challenge and reward dedicated cyclists, Epic Sardinia has also become a commercial success.

Epic Sardinia takes place in incredible natural settings, featuring long stretches, tough climbs, short, punchy ascents, flat roads, false flats, and long winding descents. The 2025 edition starts in Arbatax on the east coast and ends in Cagliari.

As always, we start with a group of participants and end with a group of friends. That’s the magic of Epic Sardinia.

Day 1: Welcome to Sardinia

Arrival at Cagliari airport and transfer to Arbatax. Accommodation at three-star hotel and welcome dinner.

Accommodation:
3-star hotel

Meals:
Breakfast, dinner

Day 2: From Arbatax to Fonni

A few years without one of the most spectacular and challenging climbs in the Mediterranean has only led to our recurring guests asking more and more to reinstate this famous climb in the opening stage of Epic Sardinia. Not that we didn't want it ourselves: it's too beautiful to be left out for too long. The climb is reached after an easy section – the perfect distance to warm up properly. After the climb and the obligatory photos from the viewpoint on Monte Genziana, which stands 1000 meters above the sea of the Gulf of Arbatax, we continue towards Fonni, passing through another one of Sardinia's famous "gem climbs": Correboi. Long, but easy. It gives us plenty of time to admire the endless panoramas over the mountains in the heart of Sardinia from above. After Correboi, the hardest part is almost over. But here we had a brilliant idea: in previous years, this stage was quite long, and only the most prepared guests would ride the optional final climb to the highest mountain area in Sardinia. In this edition, the stage is shorter, and we're sure that many more will treat themselves to the joy of this special experience – the ascent to Monte Bruncu Spina. The stage ends at a charming agriturismo, nestled in a park among the famous mountains of the Barbagia region, known for its natural beauty and deeply rooted traditions. It's the ideal place to spend two nights.

Distance: 78.1km
Elevation gain: 1,976m
Riding terrain: mountain
Riding time: 5h

Accommodation:
Agriturismo

Meals:
Breakfast, dinner

Day 3: Fonni loop

Fonni is a very strategic location on Sardinia and offers the opportunity for some truly exciting circular routes. That’s why we often decide to spend two nights here and dedicate one day to a loop ride. Of course, the magical atmosphere of the mountains, the comfort of the selected accommodation, and the excellent food play a big role: after all, we only live once. Another aspect we appreciate about this place is the combination of top-tier cycling and cultural experiences, which are offered by the ancient, well-preserved traditions and the rich history of this inland region. Cycling-wise, there are many climbs—we are in the central mountain massif, so it’s inevitable. However, the ascents are long and very steady, with almost no double-digit gradients. Culturally, we pass through two iconic villages: Mamoiada, known for its authentic carnival, and especially Orgosolo, world-famous for its political murals. Both places are also becoming important hubs for independent winemakers who have achieved true excellence. We won’t be tasting the wine while riding, but we can surely indulge in a glass during a delicious, traditional dinner!

Distance: 96km
Elevation gain: 1,827m
Riding terrain: mountain
Riding time: 5h

Accommodation:
Agriturismo

Meals:
Breakfast, dinner

Day 4: From Fonni to Belvì

There’s a quick and easy way to get from Fonni to Belvì, a charming town nestled in the heart of Barbagia’s mountains. But we’re not after easy or fast. We’re in search of breathtaking views, roads that turn every meter into an adventure, and climbs that make every drop of sweat worth it.

So, let’s choose the scenic route—one that winds around a tranquil lake, takes us along peaceful roads, and rewards the daring with the spectacular Tascusì Pass. Along the way, we’ll pass through Tonara, a village famous for its irresistible nougat.

The elevation gain is steady and manageable, with gentle climbs that make this stage more about enjoyment than effort. Once we reach Belvì, we’ll unwind in a cozy, family-run hotel and indulge in a delicious, traditional dinner.

Distance: 90.1km
Elevation gain: 1,756m
Riding terrain: mountain
Riding time: 5h

Accommodation:
3-star hotel

Meals:
Breakfast and dinner

Day 5: From Belvì to Villagrande

The fourth stage is a journey between two iconic towns nestled deep in the heart of Sardinia, connected by a captivating route that winds through the island’s untamed wilderness. This road offers an immersive experience of Sardinia’s rugged and unspoiled beauty.We depart from Belvì in the Barbagia region and head toward the heart of Sardinia’s famous Blue Zone—an area renowned for holding the record for male longevity. To inspire you to embrace the challenge of the distance and elevation, consider this: every meter you climb here adds a little more days to your life (there's a considerable elevation!) and for sure makes your time on the island all the more rewarding.The highlight of this stage is Sardinia’s hidden gem: the Montarbu road. This semi-abandoned route cuts through the central mountain range, offering glorious views of untouched, primal landscapes.There are no single major climbs to conquer, just a constant rhythm of ascents and descents at altitude. This dynamic terrain not only keeps things interesting but also ensures breathtaking panoramas that stretch on and on.>By seamlessly blending the raw beauty of nature with Sardinia’s rich history, this stage transcends the concept of a simple ride. It becomes an odyssey—connecting you to the essence of this enchanting island.

Distance: 95.5km
Elevation gain: 1,965m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 5h

Accommodation:
4-star hotel

Meals:
Breakfast, dinner

Day 6: From Villagrande to Orroli

Orroli is another one classics that is back for the high demand. Stage six unfolds on charming roads—ancient, winding, and now peacefully secluded from car traffic, cradled in the embrace of nature's neglect. What intrigue us about this stage is the radical change in sceneries that the riders will face while the ride southwards to Orroli.

At first, as you wind your way down the frst mountain pass, the landscape transforms, welcoming you to the valley of a renowned Cannonau wine region. Traverse among the vineyards, each row a testament to the rich terroir of this fertile land.
Jerzu, the capital of red wines is the place where the scenery changes in a sudden way, becoming more of a typical Mediterranian kind, made of scrub and rocks, rather than forests and cliffs.
We cross Perdasdefogu and Escalaplano and face a long and progressive climb to Orroli, a very traditional village where we can savor hospitality like in the old times.

Distance: 96.9km
Elevation gain: 1702m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 4.5h

Accommodation:
3-star hotel

Meals:
Breakfast, dinner

Day 7: From Orroli to Quartu

The final highlight of this trip takes us to the stunning town of Cagliari, marking the end of our journey with another incredible ride through the hills of southern Sardinia.

You’ll be amazed at how wild this area feels, despite being so close to a bustling city. But this is Sardinia—a place where the quiet, untamed countryside is its hallmark. And so are the climbs. This region features a cycling environment filled with shorter climbs, but plenty of them, making the ride both challenging and rewarding.

As we near Cagliari, the terrain flattens out and the roads become busier. To navigate smoothly, we’ll use the network of cycle lanes, cycling to the Maglia Nera cycle café to celebrate the end of this unforgettable adventure before heading to the nearby hotel.

Distance: 112km
Elevation gain: 1,810m
Riding terrain: hilly
Riding time: 5h

Accommodation:
4-star hotel

Meals:
Breakfast, dinner in a restaurant

Day 8: Goodbye Sardinia

Group transfer to Cagliari airport and end of services.

Date and price

Support level	Departure	Price	Book now
Support level: Guided group tour Price for min 6 people	Departure: 26 September 2025	Price: € 1839	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.

Go see the bikes!

Planning for your next Epic Sardinia 25

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

Cagliari
Best departure airport

Cagliari

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: Cagliari. 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!