The Success of Cycle Tourism in Sardinia: The Choice of Conscious and Engaging Tourism
Cycle tourism represents a form of travel that combines adventure, sustainability, and exploration of the territory. It emerged in the second half of the 19th century with the advent of the first bicycles and found fertile ground among enthusiasts of exploration and outdoor sports. As early as the 20th century, cycling associations and groups in Europe began promoting two-wheel itineraries as an alternative to traditional means of transport. Over time, this way of traveling has evolved, thanks to the growing focus on an ecological lifestyle and the introduction of more advanced bicycles, such as e-bikes. Today, cycle tourism is one of the most appreciated tourist segments, attracting travelers of all ages in search of authentic experiences and direct contact with nature.
In Italy, there are 31 million arrivals attributed to cycle tourists, accounting for 4% of total arrivals in Italy, with an estimated spending of around 4 billion euros (source: Isnart, 2022).
According to foreign tour operators, the Italian regions most popular with cycle tourists are: Tuscany (48.2%), Veneto (36.2%), Sicily (32.7%), Piedmont and Trentino-Alto Adige (31%), Umbria (29.3%), and Sardinia (27.5%).
Credits: Bikeitalia.it
Sardinia stands out as an exceptional destination for cycle tourism. Thanks to its extraordinary natural heritage, it offers rare beauty landscapes ranging from long white sandy beaches to cliffs overlooking the sea, passing through shady forests, rocky plateaus, and lush valleys. Every itinerary in Sardinia becomes a sensory journey, where the rhythm of pedaling allows you to savor every detail: the scents of myrtle and wild rosemary, the intense colors of the crystal-clear sea, and the sounds of pristine nature.
In recent years, cycle tourism has experienced a boom on the island. It is estimated that every year over 120,000 cycle tourists, both Italian and foreign, choose Sardinia as their destination. The average cycle tourist is environmentally conscious and prefers an authentic experience over mass tourism. They mainly come from Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia, attracted by the possibility of experiencing an immersive journey that combines sports, culture, and gastronomy. Furthermore, the growing popularity of electric bicycles has made Sardinia accessible to those who are not expert cyclists, opening the doors to an increasingly diverse audience.
How to Plan Your Personalized Route: The Sardinia Cycle Route Website
The official website of the Sardinia Cycle Route (www.cicloviadellasardegna.it) presents an ambitious project to promote cycle tourism on the island. Included in the National System of Tourist Cycle Routes (SNCT) since 2017, the Cycle Route includes 19 main itineraries that develop in a loop configuration, with Sassari as the starting and ending point. This design allows easy access from the island’s main ports, airports, and train stations, offering great flexibility to cycle tourists.
The routes cross places of great environmental, historical, and cultural value, including archaeological sites, SIC (Sites of Community Interest) areas, picturesque villages, and breathtaking coastlines. Among the most iconic stretches are the roads of Costa Smeralda, the Gulf of Orosei, and the inland regions of Gennargentu.
The project is based on sustainability, safety, and comfort criteria: 80% of the routes have gradients of less than 3%, making them accessible even to cyclists with moderate experience. The infrastructure includes dedicated bike paths, mixed-use lanes at low speeds, and services such as rest areas every 10 km, clear signage, and bike stations.
Below are some of the routes featured on the site, with detailed descriptions of your cycle tourism itineraries in Sardinia.
CS15: Oristano – Bosa
The CS 15 route starts from the city of Oristano and heads northwest, creating an itinerary that alternates archaeological treasures, rare natural beauty landscapes, and charming villages along the western coast of Sardinia.
Among the first stops is the archaeological area of Tharros, an ancient Phoenician and later Roman city located on a peninsula overlooking a crystal-clear sea. Continuing, the famous Mont’e Prama site is reached, where the imposing statues of the Giants tell the extraordinary story of the Nuragic civilization.
The route then passes the Cabras Lagoon, a SIC area where nature reigns supreme. This lagoon ecosystem is home to pink flamingos and other rare species, making it an unmissable stop for birdwatching enthusiasts. Along the way, you will encounter the coast of Santa Caterina di Pittinuri, a small jewel nestled among limestone cliffs and a sea with changing shades. This charming seaside village is known for its tranquil atmosphere and beach, perfect for a relaxing break. For rest, we recommend our Felix Hotel La Baja, located by the village’s beach and just minutes from the Is Arenas beach.
The CS 15 route leads to the Is Arenas natural area, a vast sandy stretch surrounded by pine forests and Mediterranean scrub, and ends in the beautiful town of Bosa. This picturesque village lies along the banks of the Temo River, dominated by the imposing Malaspina Castle, and offers a unique combination of medieval history, colorful architecture, and local traditions.
For more information on the route length, map, and elevation profile, click here
CS 4 Badesi – Santa Teresa di Gallura
CS 4 runs along the beautiful coastal territory of Alta Gallura, linking the village of Badesi to the town of Santa Teresa Gallura, a strategic point on the Strait of Bonifacio with sea connections to Corsica. This route immerses you in the unspoiled beauty of northern Sardinia, with crystal-clear beaches, breathtaking views, and villages rich in tradition.
Starting from Badesi, famous for its golden sandy stretches and winds ideal for water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, the route follows areas of extraordinary natural beauty. Spectacular beaches and scenic headlands offer unique views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Continuing north, the route passes through Palau, home to the beautiful Costa Serena beach. This paradise stands out for the tranquility of its sea, surrounded by granite rocks and Mediterranean scrub. It’s the perfect place for a revitalizing stop, immersing in the wild nature and peace of Gallura’s coast.
From Palau, the route proceeds to Santa Teresa di Gallura, a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the coast and visit the nearby Bonifacio cliffs, which separate Sardinia from Corsica. In this charming village, you can enjoy splendid beaches such as Rena Bianca and Capo Testa, known for their white sands and crystal-clear waters.
For more information on the route length, map, and elevation profile, click here
CS 6 Arzachena – Olbia
The CS 6 route offers an immersion into the heart of Costa Smeralda, one of the most iconic and renowned areas of Sardinia. This cycle tourism route, winding through spectacular coastal landscapes and exclusive locations, passes through some of the most scenic and famous points in the island’s northeast, ending in the lively city of Olbia, considered the main gateway for those arriving by sea or air.
The itinerary begins in the area of Arzachena, the heart of Costa Smeralda, which boasts a significant archaeological heritage with its nuraghes, tombs of giants, and prehistoric villages. Arzachena acts as a gateway to explore the charm of the region, also offering rural and hilly landscapes ideal for a bike ride immersed in nature. Here you will find our Country Resort Parco degli Ulivi, surrounded by scenic landscapes, ancient granite rocks, old and young olive trees, Mediterranean scrub, roses, and lavender.
Next, the route leads to Baja Sardinia, a charming location overlooking a turquoise bay, famous for its fine sandy beaches and high-quality tourist facilities. This section is particularly appreciated for its combination of relaxation and the possibility of engaging in sports activities such as sailing, snorkeling, and trekking. If you want to take a break on your Sardinia cycle tourism itinerary, our Felix Hotel Airone is an excellent stop.
The route then reaches Porto Cervo, the symbolic center of Costa Smeralda. Famous for its luxury marina, exclusive boutiques, and characteristic architecture, Porto Cervo represents the peak of glamour on the route. Cyclists can explore the marina, the historic center, and nearby beaches such as Liscia Ruja and Cala di Volpe, renowned for their natural beauty.
Heading south, the route passes through Porto Rotondo and the Gulf of Marinella, two equally prestigious locations immersed in a natural context of hidden coves and crystal-clear waters. These places offer a more tranquil atmosphere compared to Porto Cervo while maintaining high-quality tourist hospitality.
The route ends in Olbia, a dynamic and strategic city. With its international airport, port, and rich cultural offerings, Olbia is the ideal starting point for exploring the entire northeast of Sardinia. The historic center, Romanesque churches, and beaches like Pittulongu and Bados are not to be missed, rounding out an unforgettable cycle tourism experience. Olbia is also home to our Hotel Felix Olbia, located just a short distance from the city center, a dynamic smart hotel where elements of Sardinian culture merge harmoniously with high technology.
Ideal for recharging your batteries during your cycle tourism experience in Sardinia. For more information on the route length, map, and elevation profile, click here.
CS 7 Olbia – Siniscola The CS 7 route stretches from Olbia, one of the main ports and airports in Sardinia, following the eastern coast until it reaches Siniscola. This itinerary, characterized by breathtaking coastal landscapes, passes through charming locations, each with its unique character and deep connection to the sea.
The journey begins in Olbia, a lively and historically important city, a privileged gateway to Gallura and Costa Smeralda. Continuing south, you reach Porto San Paolo, a charming coastal village famous for its spectacular view of Tavolara Island, an imposing limestone mountain rising from the turquoise sea. This stop is ideal for those wishing to explore the Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area, where snorkeling and diving reveal extraordinary underwater landscapes. Also in Porto San Paolo, you will find our Hotel Residence Porto San Paolo. It offers spacious and bright rooms, furnished in a modern style. The hotel’s panoramic terrace pool offers a spectacular view of the majestic Tavolara Island.
The route continues towards San Teodoro, renowned for its white sandy beaches like La Cinta and its lively summer atmosphere. Here, the lagoons and protected natural areas provide opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks.
Further south is Budoni, another coastal gem where beaches alternate with cliffs and pine forests, creating a varied landscape ideal for outdoor activities. The itinerary continues through Posada, a village of great historical significance with its medieval castle perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the coast and the Rio Posada, perfect for kayaking excursions.
Finally, the route reaches Siniscola, marking the culmination of this itinerary. With its mountainous inland and wild beaches like Capo Comino, it offers a mix of adventure and relaxation.
For more information on the route length, map, and elevation profile, click here
CS 10 Tortolì – Villaputzu The CS 10 route stretches from Tortolì to Villaputzu, offering a unique experience that alternates coastal stretches with mountainous landscapes in the Ogliastra subregion, considered one of the most authentic and wild areas of Sardinia. This itinerary is a perfect combination of unspoiled nature, local culture, and breathtaking views.
The journey begins in Tortolì, a lively city and important economic and cultural center of Ogliastra. Here is the Arbatax Port, one of the main intermodal exchange hubs on the island, connecting Sardinia to the rest of Italy. Along the route, the panorama is dominated by the majesty of the Gennargentu, the island’s main mountain range, providing a spectacular backdrop of green peaks and clear skies.
Continuing, the route passes through Bari Sardo, a small village that blends history and nature. Famous for its Torre di Barì, an ancient Spanish watchtower, Bari Sardo is surrounded by golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, making this stop a must-see. If you want to take a break during your Cyclotourism in Sardinia, we highly recommend our Galanias Hotel & Retreat. It is located just a short distance from the Torre di Barì beach, offering unparalleled tranquility and breathtaking views.
Continuing south, CS 10 approaches the coast, dotted with hidden coves and cliffs overlooking the sea, until it reaches Villaputzu, the final point of the route. This historic village is the gateway to Sarrabus, with its hilly landscapes and proximity to the protected natural area of the Flumendosa River mouth, perfect for excursions and wildlife observation.
For more information on the route length, map, and elevation profile, click here
Why Choose Sardinia for Cyclotourism
Sardinia is not just a destination, but a promise of continuous discovery. The mild climate, with pleasant temperatures for most of the year, gives it a competitive edge over other destinations. The variety of landscapes allows for alternating maritime routes, where the azure sea blends with the sky, and inland paths rich in millennia-old traditions and archaeological treasures like nuraghes and tombs of the giants.
For those seeking a sustainable, enriching, and unforgettable way to travel, Sardinia is the perfect place where the passion for cycling meets the timeless beauty of a unique territory in the world. And if you want to stay at our hotels, we’re waiting for you!
