Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Flights
available
14.0Kg CO2e
Navigation App
Sardinia's south-west corner is brimming with immaculate beaches, untouched hidden coves and far reaching coastal views, and there's no better way to discover this beautiful region than by bike. This 7 night holiday takes you from the former mining village of Nebida along undulating country lanes and panoramic coastal roads, to the colourful town of Pula, a short distance from the Sardinian capital of Cagliari. Enroute you pass expanses of vineyards and olive groves and pedal along high rugged cliffs dotted with Spanish and Pisan watchtowers. You'll discover the stunning islands of St Pietro and St Antioco, with their bustling harbours selling the freshest of fish, and admire picture perfect white sand beaches lapped by those famous emerald waters.
Sardinia's position in the Mediterranean made it an enviable trading outpost and the island is an archaeologist's delight, boasting a historical treasure trove ranging from the unique yet mysterious Bronze Age nuraghi, to the Punic remains at St Antioco and the Roman settlement at Nora, where the ruins of its ancient temple panoramically gaze out to sea.
The food on Sardinia is as unique as it is, with simple dishes packed with intense flavours. Rich sheep cheeses served with the traditional, crisp shepherd's flat bread, saffron infused ravioli and to finish, cheese and lemon seadas drizzled in honey can be found everywhere, as well as, of course, freshly caught seafood, all washed down with the excellent local Carignano and Vermentino wines.
Your accommodation reflects the best of Sardinian hospitality, ranging from a family run agriturismo nestled amongst the vineyards to a 3* hotel just a short ride from Chia's long sandy beach.
The tour alternates between tranquil country roads and stunning coastal stretches. Mostly on paved roads, with some short dirt sections, it winds through gentle hills and flat areas, passing olive groves and vineyards. The coastal ride is undulating with rewarding views.
Transfer from Cagliari Airport to your accommodation in Portoscuso, a charming fishing village was once inhabited by Catalan settlers. The Catalan influence is evident in the architecture and certain historical buildings, such as the 16th- century Spanish Tower and the 17th-century church of Santa Maria D'Itria.
You stay at Hotel Lido degli Spagnoli.
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On the edge of the town of Portoscuso but just a short walk from the beach, the 4* Hotel Lido dei Spagnoli comes with some fantastic facilities including swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, bar and restaurant. The simple but spacious rooms come with either hillside or sea view; most also have a balcony.
This morning a 30-minute transfer will take you to Nebida, a small former mining village. Begin your cycle with amazing views of towering white pan di Zucchero sea stacks before heading south along the stunning coastal road. Once you reach Portoscuso hop on a ferry to the island of St Pietro and the gorgeous town of Carloforte with its pastel-coloured houses, cobbled streets and plethora of fish restaurants. Overnight in Calasetta on the island of St Antioco.
You stay at Hotel Luci del Faro or Hotel Cala di Seta.
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Hotel Luci del Faro - named after St Antioco's lighthouse which it overlooks - sits in landscaped gardens just a short walk from spectacular cliffs and the stunning beach of Spiaggia Grande in Calasetta. The hotel has a classic Sardinian decor of bright yellow and vibrant blue, whilst bedrooms are spacious and modern, in pastel tones, and with a patio area giving directly out onto the gardens.
The hotel boasts a swimming pool and tennis court, and also comes with a restaurant serving both Sardinian and Italian dishes with the best locally sourced produce.
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Cala Di Seta is a welcoming family-run hotel located in the heart of Calasetta on the beautiful island of Sant'Antioco. Recharge your batteries and immerse yourself in local traditions and flavours in unspoiled nature. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning system and are tastefully decorated in the traditional Sardinian style and colours. A choice of restaurants is available at a short walking distance.
Follow quiet country roads along St Antioco's rugged coastline with peregrine falcons soaring overhead. Arrive at the bustling fishing town of St Antioco. With a rich archeological heritage, there's much to explore here including the Punic Necropolis and Phoenicean-Punic Tophet. Cycle back to your hotel via the sleepy hamlet of Cussorgia.
Return to the mainland via the causeway across the Bay of Palmas, then pedal past salt pans and lagoons of pink flamingos to the gently rolling, vineyard clad hills of St Anna Arresi and Teulada. Enjoy the best of Sardinian hospitality at a traditional agriturismo, where your evening meal is included.
You stay at Agriturismo Terraniedas.
Admire unrivalled coastal views as you cycle along the spectacular Costa del Sud, with its hidden sandy coves, panoramic watch towers, stunning white sand beaches and rugged cliffs that plunge into pure emerald blue waters. End the day in Chia with time to relax on the town's immaculate, long sandy beach.
You stay at Hotel Spartivento.
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The panoramic view at Hotel Spartivento paints the perfect picture of the western Sardinian coastline. The one-storey building is designed with nature in mind: made of natural and local materials like stone and wood it is home to typical Mediterranean plants that you can admire in the large garden surrounding the property. This property offers 27 comfortable ensuite rooms located on the ground floor, all equipped with Air-Con, minibar and safe, each room gives out onto the garden and veranda where you can enjoy the gentle warm breeze from the coast.
Head north past the gorgeous beach at Santa Margherita di Pula to the ancient Phoenicean site of Nora. Visit the remains of the Roman amphitheatre, temple and baths, one of Sardinia's best archeological sites, before continuing to colourful Pula with its winding alleyways and lively piazze.
You stay at Hotel Marin.
Hotel Marin, Pula
BankCash machineMastercardVisaHairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafeRelax on the beach, enjoy a leisurely fish lunch in one of Pula's excellent restaurants or take a bus (40 mins) to the Sardinian capital of Cagliari to discover its many historical sites and museums.
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Hotel Marin, Pula.
Hotel Marin, Pula
BankCash machineMastercardVisaHairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafeThese tour prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £237.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
Ferries to St Pietro and St Antioco islands are not included. An indicative cost for this is 10 euro per person.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Cagliari airport. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Flights
available
14.0Kg CO2e
Navigation App
