Our top five cycling routes in Sardinia

The ride in one sentence: A fantastic introduction to the area, and an achievable ride for most cyclists that varies hugely depending on the pace it’s ridden. Length: 30km with 350m of climbing. Difficulty level: Higher intermediate at group pace. What makes it special: We’ll guide you on an 8km warm-up towards Posada, which will get you ready for the 5km climb up to Brunella, a local town inthe hills. The views on the climb are endless and absolutely spectacular, especially in the evening, when the sun casts a golden glow over everything. You’ll enjoy a long, winding descent down to the village of Budonigivingyou the perfect opportunity to open up the cylinders before stopping for a coffee at the plaza in town. Niggly parts: The main road out can be busy during the peak summer months– if you’re a less experienced rider, it can make the route more difficult to navigate, but if you’re a proficient rider it’s all part of the challenge! Top tip: Make sure you warm up properly and hold some energy back for the climb. It’s gradual, but you’ll feel it during the last kilometre!

The ride in one sentence: An incredible view from the top and technical fast riding down make this ride a must for intermediate and advanced mountain bikers. Length: 30km with 650m of climbing. Difficulty: Higher intermediate to advanced. What makes it special: The view from the top of the climb is truly something to behold. Both the climb and the view are breath-taking (in their own ways!), making this ride a must-do for intermediate and advanced mountain bikers. We’ll guide you on a descent down into the port of Ottiolu, which is technical, narrow and loose, making it a fun ride that’s unique to the Sardinia Beachclub. A refreshment in the port after all the madness is over will bring down the adrenaline and set you up for a rolling ride home. Niggly parts: The uphill climb can be incredibly steep at points, and during certain parts of the season you will have to walk the bike part of the way up to the very top (the view certainly makes it worth the while). The descent is technical, and so not suited to less confident cyclists. Top tip: Take care during the ascent, and get off and walk when needed. Make sure you take in the view before heading on the technical route down!

The ride in one sentence: This is the ride to keep everybody happy, allowing you to see the best of the area without travelling too far afield. Length: 22km with 150m of climbing. Difficulty level: Beginner to lower intermediate. What makes it special: This lower level road ride is enjoyable for everybody. We’ll take you to the picturesque port of Ottiolu and follow cycle lanes for the large majority of the journey. A plethora of cafés and bars in the port give you plenty of choice when it comes to refreshing drinks, coffees and ice creams. Niggly parts: Though this is lower level ride, you’ll still have to ride a steep slope immediately outside the resort, commonly referred to as the ‘hill of joy’. Top tip: Take in the beautiful views as you cycle, this is a relaxing ride that will allow you get to know the local area better.

The ride in one sentence: A hidden gem from a local and a ride not to be missed by any intermediate cyclist. Length: 30km with 500m of climbing. Difficulty level: Higher intermediate. What makes it special: The Giannis Loop is truly a hidden gem in Sardinia, a route created by us with help from a local café owner. We’ll lead you on a long, gradual climb on loose gravel, followed by a fast and bouncy descent towards Budoni. The way down isn’t overly technical, but it can get fast if you want it to! Niggly parts: To reach these trails, you’ll need to ride on the road through the town of Budoni, which can get busy in the high season. It’s worth considering that if it rains a lot, the climb up will change considerably. Top tip: Pace yourself on the gradual climb up, take in the view, and let loose on the way back down!

The ride in one sentence: A staple and stand out ride for Baia dei Mori - a guide and guest favourite year after year. Length: 70km with 1,100 of climbing. Difficulty level: Higher intermediate to advanced. What makes it special: Siniscola Alpine is a guest and guide favourite. It’s a ride you can do over and over and never get bored. We’ll guide you on an 8km climb up into the hills, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views over the coastline, before taking on a winding switchback descent into the national park. An espresso in the café at the top of the climb puts some energy in the legs ready for the fast descent! Niggly parts: There are lots of tight corners to be aware of – if they’re misjudged, they can become dangerous, making this route unsuitable for less competent riders. Top tip: Caution is key the first time you ride Siniscola Alpine – as long as you’re aware of the tight corners, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views and a great workout!