TASTE Sardinia:
Ride Deep Through Time

May 3, 2025-May 10,2025

 Explore Centenarian Heartland with Flavors and Tradition

Destination: Alghero to Cala Gonone
Duration: 8 Days/7 Nites
Style/Level: Classic Point to point, Intermediate
Price: 4,795.00 pp
Average Temperature: High 64-75 Low 50-57

Experience the heart of central Sardinia on this captivating bike tour. As you pedal through ancient towns like Bosa, Mamoiada, and Dorgali, you'll discover their rich histories and timeless beauty. In spring, the air is fragrant with wild herbs and blooming flowers, while the stunning landscapes of rolling hills and rocky outcrops provide a breathtaking backdrop for your adventure. You’ll not only enjoy the invigorating ride but also explore the intriguing stories of the Nuragic civilization, marked by mysterious stone structures scattered throughout the region. Along the way, meet resilient centenarians whose wisdom and traditions offer a glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. This journey is more than just a bike ride; it’s a heartfelt experience that connects you to the spirit of Sardinia and its enduring legacy. Indulge in traditional cuisine featuring hearty, rustic dishes that reflect the island’s pastoral heritage, crafted with fresh, local ingredients and bold flavors. For the non-cyclists in the group, a daily itinerary will include options for scenic hikes, historic tours, and farm-to-table culinary adventures, ensuring an enriching experience for everyone.

Tour Highlights

• Bike through Sardinia’s diverse beauty, from coastal vistas to mountainous landscapes.

• Transition from coastal scenery to rolling hills and rural landscapes.

• Pass through small villages, experiencing local culture tasting traditional Sardinian foods like Pane Carasau, culurgiones, porceddu, Pecorino Sardo, and Sardinian gnocchi.

• Accommodation will be in 4-5 star hotels and ‘Agriturismo’ type accommodation to give us a real taste of Sardinian life.

• Enjoy Sardinian wine including Cannonau di Sardegna, Vermentino di Sardegna, Pecorino, and Fiu e Ferru.

• Experience Sardinian scenic areas like the Golfo di Orosei

• See both Alghero and Olbia two of Sardinia's largest cities, each with its own rich heritage.

Note: Arrival Alghero (AHO); Departure Olbia Costa Smeralda (OLB).

Itinerary

Day 1 Saturday, May 3, 2025: Welcome to Italy

Upon your arrival, our guides will be waiting to greet you at Alghero Airport. Two shuttles will depart at 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM, transporting you to the charming town of Alghero. After checking into the hotel, each participant will undergo a bike fitting to ensure a comfortable riding experience. In the evening, we’ll gather for our first dinner together, providing an opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and guides while savoring delicious Sardinian cuisine. We will also conduct a safety briefing and discuss the details of our week ahead, including an overview of the plans for Day 2.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 Sunday, May 4, 2025: Warm Up Ride

After breakfast we will start our first bike ride to Bosa. This is a stunning journey along the coast of Sardinia, covering about 28 miles. This route is famous for its breathtaking views, charming landscapes, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Upon reaching Bosa, you'll be greeted by its colorful houses perched on a hill, the serene Temo River, and the impressive Malaspina Castle. The town has a rich history and a charming old town perfect for a leisure stroll. Your hotel will be ready for check-in when we arrive at Bosa. You will have the afternoon to enjoy lunch on your own and explore the town before we meet for dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Lunch on your own
Shorter Route: 28 miles 2000 feet elevation
Extended Route: 43 miles 2200 feet elevation

Day 3 Monday, May 5, 2025: Bosa to Santu Lussurzo

After breakfast, we will leave the picturesque town of Bosa, with its colorful houses along the Temo River, and pedal along serene roads that wind through lush countryside and rolling hills. We will encounter a mix of coastal views and inland beauty, with the scent of wild herbs and blooming flowers filling the air in spring. The route offers glimpses of the rugged coastline before leading you into more rural settings, where ancient stone walls and olive groves dot the landscape. approach Santu Lussurgiu, the terrain begins to rise, offering a bit of a challenge but rewarding you with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. This charming town, known for its traditional architecture and vibrant culture, is a perfect spot to rest for the night. Explore its narrow streets or visit the local shops before we meet for some authentic Sardinian cuisine at a local trattoria.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Shorter Route: 24.5 miles 2174feet elevation
Extended Route 38 miles 3025 feet elevation

Day 4 Tuesday, May 6, 2025: Santu Lussurzo to Orroli

After breakfast, we will transport by van (20-minute shuttle) to the town of Fordongianus, known for its thermal springs historically used by the Romans. We will begin our ride which includes a visit to a nearby UNESCO-listed Nuragic complex. The route will be longer but mostly flat with 2 gentle hill climbs until we reach the small village of Orroli, famous for its centenarians and healthy lifestyle. We’ll stop at a lovely café for a light snack, because you’ll be treated to an amazing aperitif upon arrival at the agriturismo hotel. There’s an option to head to the hotel after lunch. In the evening, we’ll enjoy dinner that highlights Sardinian culinary heritage, focusing on wholesome, locally sourced ingredients, and learn from our friend the history of Orroli.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Dinner.
Shorter Route: 33 miles2800 feet elevation
Extended Route 49.8 miles 3164feet elevation

Day 5, wednesday, may 7, 2025: Orroli to Tortoli

Today’s ride takes us to Tortolì. Expect a strenuous climb up a hill, but the effort is well worth it when you reach the top, where you can drink from the springs along the way. We’ll also ride along a portion of the Giro d’Italia route, one of the most scenic in Sardinia, as we approach Tortolì. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon and dinner on your own from many local restaurants within walking distance to choose from.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Dinner on your own
Shorter Route: 44 miles 3200feet
Extended Route: 51 miles 3600 elevation

Day 6, thursday, May 8, 2025: Tortoli to Mamoiada

Today’s ride takes us to Mamoiada, renowned for its traditional carnival masks, especially the "Mamuthones." The town boasts a rich cultural history, with strong traditions in folk music, dance, and craftsmanship. Located in the Barbagia region, Mamoiada offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it an excellent destination for a bike ride. For those who prefer a day off, a hiking excursion is available before we head to our final hotel for the remaining two days of the tour.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Lunch on your own
Shorter Route: 31.8 miles2690 feet elevation
Extended Route: 56 miles 4200 elevation

Day 7, friday, May 9, 2025: Su gologone(oliena) or villa Cendrino Dolgate Cala gologone, Orosei

Our final ride offers a chance to enjoy the stunning coastal views on a short 17-mile loop to the Gulf of Orosei. However, for those seeking a more immersive experience, we have curated several other options for the day including hikes and culinary experiences. Or, simply enjoy a leisurely day in this charming coastal town. Tonight, we’ll come together for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating the incredible journey we’ve shared

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Lunch on your own
Distance: 17 miles 1200 feet elevation

Day 8 Saturday, May 10,2023: Bye-Bye Sardinia

After breakfast transportation will be provided to Olbia Airport. NOTE: different airport than the pick up.

Inclusions and Details

Accommodations/Meals:

·         Thoughtfully selected 4-5 Star hotels and “Agriturismos” type accommodations that reveal the character of the region
·         Airport and Luggage transfers on the first day and last day of the tour.
·         Luggage transfer between hotels
·         Meals: Daily breakfast, snacks at all stops, with lunches and dinners included except on designated "on-your-own" days as listed.
·         Wine is included during the welcome and farewell dinner events.  However, all other alcoholic and specialty beverages are not covered.

Activities:

·         All activities listed in the itinerary for cyclists and tours/excursions designed as daily options for non-riders on tour.
·         Entrance fees to historic sites, parks, and exclusive events related to the tour.
·         Gratuities for baggage handling, porters, and hotel services

Bike and Gear:

• The bikes included with the price of the tour will be high-performance carbon road bikes equipped with electronic shifters and hydraulic disc brakes. They feature 30-inch tires, ideal for both comfort and performance on various terrains. The bikes are lightweight, ensuring an efficient ride, and are designed for all-day comfort on long-distance rides.

• E-bikes are also available for an additional charge of $200.00 for those who prefer an assisted ride.

• GPS

• Complimentary 2025 Taste Series Jersey; T-Shirt, Water bottle

  Support:

• Expert bilingual guides with extensive local knowledge. Support vehicle that follows the day’s route, distributes refreshments, and offers lifts.

• Pick-up and drop-off before and after your tour from predetermined meeting points for non-riders

• Daily bike maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

  NOT Included:

• Airfare

• Few Lunches and Dinners listed as “on your own” days

• Travel Protection

• Gratuities for Guides

Please email me directly with any questions at pina@farmtofork.fitness