Cycle Touring Italy's Islands - Sardinia

A very enjoyable week of cycling in Sardinia's south west coastal area with a lovely group. Some long climbs which were rewarded with equally long descents. The weather was sunny for the first couple of days, thereafter overcast and occasionally rainy, but this did not dampen the spirits of the group. The leaders - Michele and Simone were excellent, ensuring all the group had an enjoyable time. The hotels and agriturismos we stayed in along the route were all very good with excellent home cooked food.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
it has to be the long climbs on days three and four and the equally long thrilling descents! Cyclists consume a lot of calories and there was no shortage of delicious food from breakfast, snack stops, lunch and dinner. Not to mention the re-hydrating with local beer and wine at the end of a long day cycling!
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele and Simone were excellent. They supported all of us on the daily rides making sure everybody had an enjoyable time and took it in turns to cycle and drive the support van. They provided snacks during the rides and ensured we arrived at lunch stops on time for pre-booked lunch. Nothing was a problem for them - from fixing the occasional puncture to ordering food for us.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
If you have your own pedals/cycling shoes and saddle then I strongly recommend you take them. I did not take mine and cycled in trainers, I managed ok, but it would have been a lot easier, especially on the hills if I had my own pedals and cycling shoes.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
You need to have a reasonable level of fitness tailored to cycling and have some off-road experience as there is a small amount of non-technical off-road cycling.

I went with four friends which made for good companionship and plenty of laughs, We made sure that we mixed with the group and made some good friends, and hopefully enhanced their enjoyment. We were lucky with the weather which threatened to have some storms but we seemed to have sunshine most of the time. I loved the morning coffee stops and the daily beach stops for a swim. Some of the rides were quite challenging and surprised the first timer in our group. The resulting downhill sections were fabulous. Most hotels had swimming pools which were very welcome at the end of the day.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The long downhill rides after the steep climbs. The nice beaches and hotels with swimming pools. Having a beer with the group at the end of the ride. The final night as a group in Cagliari.
What did you think of your group leader?
Both the leaders. Simone and Giovani were excellent. Giovani was very knowledgeable about the island and its history, which he was keen to tell us about. He was quite strict but we soon warmed to him and brought out his softer side by using some banter.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
The hills on day 2 and three are very challenging. I have done grade 3 climbs on previous Exodus trips and these were long and challenging. Knowing that the hills would be a challenge and no longer a spring chicken, I had an e bike. I have embraced e mountain biking at home on the South Downs and it is fabulous. Although the e bike I had wasn't an ideal design, it certainly helped and enhanced my enjoyment. My advice would be to have one if you have any doubt. Why suffer? the e bikers were able to chat on the hills and enjoy the scenery, whereas the normal bikers couldn't talk.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If you like coffee stops, nice beaches and swimming pools, this is the trip for you. Beware of the hills!

Very well organized and enjoyable trip taking in some amazing scenery both coastal and inland.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
I loved the variety of the cycling, especially the off road bits. Learning about how Sardinia's past was related to the monuments we passed and the food and culture.
What did you think of your group leader?
Lovely, friendly, patient, friendly and jovial hosts who always tried to please everyone, all the time. Great fruit breaks!
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Some hills were quite long and steep. If you want to enjoy more, consider getting an electric bike! However, the van was available all the time allowing you to hop on and off throughout the day giving a great flexibility.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Watch out for the mosquitoes! Take repellent with you.

Great way to see the beautiful Sardinian West coast, including salt pans, flamingos, the dramatic coastline & turquoise seas.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The Costa del Sud was truly spectacular; the annual San Salvatore festival in Cabras; the giant sand dunes of the Costa Verde and the islands of San Pietro & Sant’Antioco. All of it really!
What did you think of your group leader?
Both Alessandro & Simone were superb: multi-tasking, great local knowledge, dealing with logistics, accommodation, restaurants, fixing bikes, making us a superb lunch. And they were brilliant when one of our group had a bad fall. They are both passionate about their country & it showed.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
My knees are knackered (little/no cartilage) and although I cycle at home, my knees would never have coped with this trip without an e-bike. There are some very challenging hills. Even the keen cyclists in our group felt that it would be better described as Moderate/Hard. With an e-bike it was still a challenge but a very satisfying one. Also it was incredibly hot - if the trip was offered mid-late September/early October, I think it could be even more enjoyable.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Our only criticism was that the days were often long, starting at 9am & arriving at our next hotel at around 5ish. Personally I think the days should have ended at 4pm so you had a bit more time to either explore or have a swim before dinner. It’s a pretty full on itinerary!

The tour was well organized and Michaela, assisted by Ado, dealt with everything very well. The bikes are very good but be prepared for some stiff climbs on the first two days and the Mistral at any time. Don't forget your Camelbak or your sunblock.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Getting to the top of any hill then flying down the other side.
What did you think of your group leader?
Excellent, he managed everything superbly.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Do some preparation.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
A printout of each day's travel, as with the trip in Sri Lanka, would be good.

A good trip, if a little light on interesting places to stop and look at during the day, and a little heavy on very hot beaches. This was I think our 8th cycling trip, and one of the least interesting.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Views of some nice mountains, although nothing to match what we saw further north after the cycling when we hired a car to drive up to Olbia.
What did you think of your group leader?
Very good, except that he did not seem to grasp that, for the English at least, the sort of people who go on cycling holidays are in general not the sort of people who want to lie on the beach in the middle of the day. On his last attempt to rouse us from a shady bar to go to the beach 100% of the group declined to go, preferring to push on to the lunchtime restaurant. He was absolutely brilliant is dealing with my dietary requirements as a coeliac.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Difficult to persuade Sardinian restaurants to provide any vegetables! If you are a vegetarian be prepared to live on pasta with tomato sauce, and salads consisting of little but iceberg lettuce.

This was an amazing cycling trip which included stunning scenery, roman ruins, beaches, disused mines, coastal plains, ferry trips to two islands, country roads (some dirt tracks) and even a crossing of a shallow river!! Our guides Michele and Allesandro really made this trip wonderful and hastle free.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Our final day cycling over the coastal plains of the Costa del Sud, even though challenging at times, the amazing views over the pristine beaches, cliffs and 16th century watchtowers made it all worthwhile.
What did you think of your group leader?
Our group leader Michele was exceptional. From the moment we arrived at the airport to our farewell in Cagliari, he was always there to answer our questions, translate and offer recommendations. Even for something as trivial as buying shampoo, he escorted us to the door of the supermarket. Some meals were included with the package but for all others he made recommendations and accompanied us to fabulous restaurants. We also had the flexibility to do our own thing, if we so wished, but we were a very close group and we really enjoyed the company of Michele and Allesandro, our driver. They were great guides, both of them had a great sense of humor but were also exceptionally knowlegeable and professional.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
The first few days were unseasonally dull with a little rain. Make sure to pack a warm layer and a water proof jacket.

We have just finished the May cycling trip around the South east coast of Sardinia. Although we were unlucky with some poor weather on the first few days; the quality and enthusiasm of our leader Michelle and his assistant Alesandro more than kept our spirits up. They really were superb and we couldn’t have hope for a more knowledgable and able team to show us around and help us up some of the steeper climbs. There were however some low points; we did find that for the price of the trip the standard of the accommodation could have been better and also we would have expected some more dinners included. But all in all we had a wonderful trip around this spectacular part of the island; and had a really lovely group to share it with.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The sun finally shining for the whole of the last day; with some stunning scenery to go with it!! The perfect way to finish.
What did you think of your group leader?
The group leader Michelle was amazing. Very knowledgable; able and enthusiastic. He made us feel very safe all along the trip and was an absolute pleasure to have around. Full marks!!
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Ask for a tour with Michelle!!

Wonderful trip, beautiful route - off road & quiet on road, hills & coast, ferries to islands, ruins, great food & accommodation - the lot!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
All of it
What did you think of your group leader?
Absolutely great - loved his island & was very knowledgeable. Efficient, generous, informed, smiley, excellent English - all you'd want. Plus Michele & Alessandro were such FUN!

Our recent cycling trip in Sardegna exceeded our expectations- our tour leaders were central to the enjoyment and value of the journey. Michele and Alessandro were in high spirits and their enthusiasm and friendliness enhanced the overall experience. Although the weather began in “unseasonal” conditions with cool temperatures and some light rain, the spirits of the group remained high and safety was always paramount. The accommodation was really good and the food was excellent with nourishing breakfasts supplying plenty (excess) fuel for some reasonably challenging days in the saddle.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The long day on which we encountered some significant hills, stretches of dirt road and river crossings along with ancient and disused mine sites culminating in a long climb to our serene agritourismo accommodation, was really memorable. We were lucky to have a fantastic group of people with varied backgrounds and cycling experience. The group displayed good humor, patience and collegiality and this was what made the trip more memorable.
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele was an excellent tour leader. It is clearly not a job that suits everyone but his positive attitude and enthusiasm for his work was infectious. He managed group dynamics with patience, humor and energy whilst working hard to iron out the inevitable problems which occurred throughout the trip. He remained encouraging for all ability levels and was key in creating a good group atmosphere. He should be congratulated because it is the attitude and experience of the personnel which ensures the success of this type of operation. Michele also had a good working relationship with his assistant Alessandro and together they formed a great team.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Obviously there is a choice to be made when tossing up between a guided versus a self- guided trip however from our experience it is the knowledge of the guides which provides the real opportunity to learn more about local customs, history, geography etc which makes all the difference. It would be easy enough to navigate ourselves but without the insights of our leaders we would have had a less meaningful experience. I would highly recommend this trip and our guides to all who are considering it.

For anyone looking for a cycling trip with stunning views, coastal roads, beautiful fields, topped off with delicious food and wine, then look no further than Cycling in Sardinia. It is simply one of the most gorgeous destinations. I loved it - despite the rain at times. You do need to be fit enough to make it up some quite long hills, but they were generally a good gradient that you could just stick in a low gear and keep turning those wheels. Plus you can get a good sense of achievement at the top. Definitely recommend!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Getting to the top of some of the hills! Watching a 79 year old get to the top of those same hills! Lovely people to share those moments with.
What did you think of your group leader?
Simone, our tour leader, and Ado, our driver/lunch chef, were both brilliant. Really fun to be with and always ready to help. I would love to be led by them again.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Read the trip notes so that you know what to expect and come prepared. Because some of the hills are quite long, it is worth doing a little hill cycling in the weeks before but, like I said above, the hills are generally a good gradient. Also don't be afraid to use an electric bike on this trip. Personally I did not need to, but one of our fellow travelers did and it really made her week more pleasurable. There was unseasonably bad weather on our trip (end April, beginning of May) and we actually had quite a lot of rain on several days, but it was still an excellent trip. I would recommend bringing lots of layers and a waterproof jacket in case this happens to you.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The accommodation on this trip was pretty good on the whole. Do the wine tasting if you get the chance.

A really enjoyable holiday. Sardinia is a beautiful island and very unspoiled - no high rise buildings, good roads and in October, hardly any traffic. Our two guides were excellent and as usual take you to places off the beaten track that you would never visit if you were on your own. The coastline which we mostly followed was full of little bays , coves and gorgeous beaches. It was the last trip of the season, but apart from the Mistral wind for 2 days, was a very pleasant temperature and several of the group went swimming. Highlights were the trip to the island, the Agro Tourism stays and the fabulous food.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Day Five I think it was, when we had the most challenging cycling in terms of "undulatings", but with spectacular views.
What did you think of your group leader?
Excellent and particularly so as it was the last trip of the season, so you half expect him to be a bit jaded and uninterested, but this wasn't the case at all. He put 110% into our holiday.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Don't expect to lose weight ! The cheese is amazing !
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Our guide arranged a wine tasting tour, I think we were the first group that had done this, and it was really enjoyable - we bought some of the wine at the Duty Free on the way home !

A wonderful week's holiday with a lovely group and excellent guides. It's a great way to see the South West of Sardinia and take in the amazing views and beautiful coastline, and to learn about the history of the island from the knowledgeable guides. The weather was warm and perfect for cycling and most of the roads had very little traffic. The hotels and agriturismos were comfortable and the food and restaurants were good. We visited interesting archeological sites and old mine buildings, went to a vineyard for wine tasting, hiked down to the sea in Nebida, and swam at some beautiful empty beaches. Cagliari was fun to explore on our final day.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Managing to get to the top of the more challenging hills (super walls) without pushing the bike! Enjoying the long down hill rides, the quiet roads and warm late October sun. Everyone in the group supporting and encouraging each other.
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele and Simone were both excellent group leaders, taking it in turns to lead or support. They were very friendly, informative, enthusiastic and encouraging and spoke good English. Everything was well organized, from accommodation to restaurants, coffee stops to route planning. They provided plenty of water bottle refills and snacks to keep us going.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
The hybrid bike was good with the optional use of a pannier. Keep a camera handy for photo stops. As an occasional cyclist, some of the hills were quite challenging, but manageable especially if you have done some pre-holiday hill cycling!

A perfect break taking us away from the daily pressures! Michele and Simone were perfect guides - we learned a lot about Sardinia, Italy and many other things. It was a perfectly pitched level for us, with Nicky being pushed close to her limit whilst also being enough cycling for me as well. Lovely trip to the islands, great hike on one afternoon, wine tasting and a couple of Agriturismos. October weather was kind to us - many sunny days with a slightly challenging head wind for a couple of days - that added to the challenge!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
So many of the amazing sights
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele never ran out of energy! Amazing local knowledge. Supported very well by Simone, also a great leader and from Sardinia too.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Quite a tough pedal - maybe on the border of 4 rating? But fantastic so don’t let that put you off!

Cycling in Sardinia was a great way to experience the differing scenery, and this combined with time spent at a different beach nearly every day for a swim - with the satisfaction of knowing you hadn't taken the easy option to get there - made for a perfect holiday. Along with this we had warm weather and sun in September, good hotels, and some fantastic food.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The meal on the final day where our group delivered not just a speech but song and poem to the guides, followed by other people in the same restaurant performing a perfect rendition of 'Volare'!
What did you think of your group leader?
Giovanni and Simone had great knowledge of their homeland, and managed the holiday well.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
There are quite a few hills of various sizes, two quite significant that go on for several miles each. If you are unsure about being able to keep up, then an eBike might be a good option to make your holiday more enjoyable.

My wife and I booked our first Exodus trip knowing we were not the most keenest of cyclists, but wanted a more active holiday than a standard package holiday typically offers. We were a little fearful of whether we could manage to cycle for 6 days solid. We are both early 50's and enjoy active outdoor pursuits including walking, golf and occasional gym. We thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience, and even managed to complete all days without any assistance from the transport who followed the group. Being part of the 16-strong group, it was nice to be able to meet so many different people and talk to them all during the cycling and also during the group meals and stops along the way. I would recommend this holiday to anyone who enjoys an active holiday, with stunning scenery and the friendliest and most hospitable Sardinian people.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The second day of cycling (Day#3 of the itinerary) is the most physically demanding with a long uphill. The sense of achievement when racing down to the meeting point was not only inspirational, but also exciting helped everyone enjoy the meal and their sleep in the beautiful hilltop hotel.
What did you think of your group leader?
Giovanni was very passionate and dedicated to make the holiday as enjoyable as possible. He was a little serious at times, but this was his way of ensuring everyone enjoyed themselves. He was very knowledgeable about the Sardinian history and also provided good advice and insight into the upcoming hotels and restaurant choices. He also very honest and made known his feelings on what was good or not so good value / service in many of the restaurants we could choose. Simone was very enthusiastic and easy to talk to. He had better English than Giovanni, and tended to understand what the group wanted to do compared to Giovanni.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Prior to starting the holiday, there is a checklist provided. The checklist does not include cycling gloves, but on Day#1, it was strongly advised to wear gloves. Fortunately, individuals within our group had spare pairs, which they kindly allowed us to borrow. The hotel stay on Night#4 is absolutely stunning. Suggest you request a room with a balcony overlooking the pool. Our room also had a washing machine which enabled us to wash our first 3 days of cycling gear. This hotel was the least friendly. The staff were very controlling, insisting on serving you breakfast rather than allowing a self-service, more relaxed arrangement that occurred at the other hotels. On our last evening, in Cagliari, the hotel was changed (with 1 day notice) from one in the town center, to one on the outskirts of the town. This was a shame as it meant the group was unable to walk to our hotel from the busy, bustling center of Cagliari. It also meant our last night fizzled out a little earlier than we certainly would have liked to. In hindsight, we should have remained in the town center until we felt it was time go back, and obtained taxi back to our hotel.

We have taken cycling trips with a number of other outfitters, all of them memorable in their own special way. This was our first with Exodus and based on the fun/value of this week, we have already booked next year in Sicily! We chose Sardinia because it had such an exotic cultural intrigue and diverse landscape. We were not disappointed in anything. Our group had instant cohesion which the guides picked up on quickly. Everyone was easy going and we spent all meals, except the free night, dining and socializing together. Highlights of the trip were the stunning views, incredible terrain, some pretty tough climbs and the amazing food! We had so much fun eating, especially the included group dinners at the agro-tourismo and on the final night in Cagliari. Our guides Enrico and Simone worked seamlessly together. As native Sardinians, we found their local knowledge to be one of the best aspects of the trip. Thanks so much for an incredible birthday week! Bill and Scott from Calif.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Everyone provided warm and genuine birthday wishes on my special day!
What did you think of your group leader?
Enrico was terrific with his local knowledge and dry sense of humor. Simone as sidekick took care of all the background logistics without any issues.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Be prepared that the hills on day two and three are going to be harder than you expect! But it's worth it. E-bike option might be worth it.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
We would have liked to be 'on our own' on the route a bit more, vs. riding from point to point as an entire group.

This is a wonderful trip, with some great scenery and lovely hotels. The guides are very knowledgeable about everything and know the terrain very well. The cycling can be quite tough at times - there are some big hills to climb! The heat can make the cycling quite hard going but the guides are so supportive and there is never any pressure to hurry. The trips on the ferry to the other smaller islands are lovely and really enhances the overall experience.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The other people on the group were amazing and so encouraging to each other.
What did you think of your group leader?
Very good. A bit serious at times but he takes his job seriously and he obviously cared about doing it well. Very knowledgeable about the area and never put any pressure on the cyclists to hurry up.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
This trip is heavy on seafood, which is great if you enjoy this kind of food. The food and drink it quite expensive and there isn't always much choice. Train well for those hills - you will enjoy the cycling more if you can cope with the hills. There are also some gravel roads, again do some preparation for this.

My first exodus holiday I had a great time. Weather hot and beautiful coastal scenery. Opportunity to swim in the clear sea every day. I was very impressed with how well organized the trip was and how well the guides took care of us. A couple of the rides were quite tough for me as not a regular cyclist but enjoyed the challenge and certainly built up an appetite for the delicious food on offer!
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The beaches and the costal views. Nice being in a group setting, moving from hotel to hotel and group leader to advise on lunches/evening meals which we all ate together which was nice.
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele and Giovanni were both great. Very friendly and professional. Giovanni provided well needed water and snack stops which was great as weather was very hot.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Try and get in a bit of (long!) hill training for day 2! Take plenty of sunscreen!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Go for it - you wont regret it!

Sardinia is a great location for a cycling holiday. The coastline is dramatic, the countryside is attractive and people are very pleasant and helpful. The week was well organized and managed by our 2 guides. The food is delicious and we enjoyed regular water/ fruit/ snack/ coffee/ gelato stops. Day 2 was the toughest for me as there were a few challenging uphills. The effort was worth it, however, as we stayed in an excellent agrotourism establishment and the next morning the long freewheel downhill back to the coast was tremendous! I did the trip in the low season - the last week in May and at the beaches/roads were very quiet, apart from in a couple of places near to towns and in these places a mini bus transfer was arranged.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
I loved swimming in the sea, which we had opportunities for most days.
What did you think of your group leader?
Michele and Giovanni were excellent leaders. They both worked hard. They were supportive and caring. Both speak good English, are very knowledgeable and experienced.
Do you have any advice for potential travelers?
Take padded cycle shorts and suncream.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The sun sets were spectacular.