Sardegna: Coast to Coast to Coast
June 20-28, 2012 ~ $3995

Sardegna is justly famous for its coasts - crystalline waters and beautiful rocky shores. But inland, the island holds a different set of treasures for cyclists -
peaceful roads that wind among dramatic rock formations and wind-sculpted
Sughero oaks. Ride through sleepy villages with traditional bakeries and women in traditional dress and past herds of sheep, goats, cows, and even pigs. This tour combines the best of Sardegna, beginning with the world-famous Emerald Coast, where ancient tombs meet jet-set mansions. We’ll cross diagonally through rocky Gallura to the 12th century fort of Castelsardo on the northern coast, then on to the Catalan-flavored medieval port of Alghero on the eastern coast before we cross the island again via a different route and descending back to our original starting point in the heart of the Costa Smeralda.

June 20 - Overnight flight to Sardegna. Consider arriving early and recovering from your jet lag exploring the beaches of the Costa Smeralda.

June 21 - Benebénniu to Sardegna! After a short transfer from Olbia's airport you'll arrive at our headquarters hotel in the rocky heart of Arzachena-Costa Smeralda. From this peaceful oasis, dispersed among ancient olive trees you can take a warm-up ride among the wind-sculpted rocks and turquoise coves of the world-famous Emerald Coast. After a refreshing dip in the pool, enjoy our chef's refined reinterpretation of traditional Sardinian cooking at our welcome dinner.

June 22 - Depart our hotel into the rocky hills of Gallura, where peaceful country roads wind among sheep flocks and shade trees. Pass among tombs and giant stone towers called nuraghe dating back to the 10th century BCE, then climb through the awesome Valle della Luna near Aggius — a valley dominated by huge granite boulders. Descend toward the northern coast and Castelsardo, a seaside hill topped by a medieval fort. Our hotel is on a hill with a breathtaking view of the town and northern coastline. Relax on the terrace with a drink before a lively group dinner featuring the regional specialties of northern Sardegna.

June 23 - After breakfast on the panoramic terrace select from short, medium, and long loop rides that wind up into the hills. Opt for steep climbs and screaming descents or more mild grades as you visit sleepy shepherd towns and catch glimpses of the sea from windy crestline roads. Return to Castelsardo along the coastline road with a spectacular view of the port and the old city behind. The evening is free to visit the nearby medieval town or beach and perhaps sample some pizza or fresh seafood for dinner.

June 24 - Head southeast toward Sassari, skirting the modern city and winding through the nearby country villages. The peaceful landscape alternates between ancient nuraghe and modern vineyards, dotted by shepherds tending their flocks. Arrive at the medieval port town of Alghero, also known as "Little Barcelona" for its Catalan heritage and style. Stroll along the waterfront, or among the narrow medieval streets, before sampling Paella or Algherian lobster at an outdoor restaurant overlooking the bay.

June 25 - Spectacular coastline cycling is order of the day as you head south along Sardegna's most famous and scenic roadway. The rugged, rocky coast is a treasure trove of seaside vistas punctuated by short, but challenging climbs and descents. Choose a coastal out-and-back, or return via the spectacular descent from Villanova Montelone. The long loop takes in the entire coast to Bosa, then returns through the picturesque, oak-dotted valley. An open evening leaves lots of time for choosing among the quaint restaurants in the city's old town.

June 26 - Today we head west across the island with the prevailing wind at our backs into the almost deserted hinterlands of central Sardegna. Wide open spaces and expansive vistas showcase the wildest parts of the island. Arrive at a rustic agriturismo or tourism farm, where they grow most of the food they serve and Laura makes all of the pasta by hand.

June 27 - The road back to the Costa Smeralda plunges through beautiful mountain valleys with rocky ridges and wide-open scrub land. The rocks change color and shape as we climb the slopes of Monte Limbarra before our final descent to Arzachena and the hotel immersed in an olive grove where our week-long journey began. There will be time to enjoy the pool, pack up your bike, and take in the view with a drink on the veranda before the celebration dinner that marks the end of our tour.

June 28 - Morning airport shuttles or extend your stay in the Costa Smeralda area with special early arrival or late departure packages.

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