Sardinia & Corsica Self Guided Cycling Tour
Hybrid / Touring Bike Hire - € 230
Race / Gravel / E-Bike Hire - € 320
Tandem - € 470
Single room surcharge - Please enquire
This is self-guided tour so you pick the date (subject to hotel availability)
Overview
Sardinia and Corsica - Italy and France. Imagine breathtaking views, traffic-free roads and swimming in the clear blue waters of some of the world's most beautiful beaches that rival the best of the Caribbean.
Both islands have their own (many and varied) cultural identities which are very independent from their respective mainlands. They have their own languages, cuisines and architecture, shaped by the great empires that have attempted to rule the Mediterranean over the last 3000 years.
This tour offers great cycling as well as plenty of opportunities for relaxation! The itinerary is designed to be a vacation (not a race) so you can enjoy the scenery along the way. You can cycle shorter or longer distances as preferred and on ‘loop’ days you are always welcome to skip the ride and spend time exploring the local sights or soaking up the Mediterranean climate on dreamy beaches.
Sardinia is geologically the most ancient landmass of Europe and both islands have been continuously settled since the Mesolithic era (10,000–5,000 BC). In Sardinia villages were built around round tower-fortresses called nuraghi. You will have the opportunity to visit some of the many excavations of the nuraghic civilisation on your tour.
On this bike trip we focus on the more rugged west coasts of the two islands. The coastal rides are spectacular, as are the wild mountains in the hinterland. Have we mentioned the beaches? I guess you’ll just have to come and see them for yourself!
This tour is self-guided so you can choose the dates to suit you. We take care of the complicated details - itinerary, GPS route App, accommodation, luggage transfers and emergency backup. - leaving you and your friends to relax and enjoy the ride.
Want more time to explore the islands or chill at one of the glorious beaches? No problem - extra days are available in both Sardinia and Corsica.
Highlights
Culture: Sardinia and Corsica's cultural landscape of combined French and Italian heritage.
Nature: The magnificent corsican west coast, amazing beaches.
Activity: Explore the town of Bonifacio and the Archipelago of La Maddalena National Park.
Culinary: Lamb, wild boar, seafood and the Corsican charcuterie.
Souvenir: Sardinian Filigree jewelry and a Corsican cookbook
Tour Gallery
Full Itinerary
Arrival to Arzachena
Benvenuiti to Sardinia.
Please make your own way to your accommodation in Arzachena. The closest airport is Olbia Airport - 30 km.
Arzachena, with its pastel-coloured buildings, is on the north eastern tip of Sardinia, in the Gulf of Arzachena. The town has great access to the numerous picturesque beaches of the Costa Smeralda.
At 4pm you'll meet with the team for a bike fitting and overview of the tour.
You have the option to cycle to Porto Cervo (depending on arrival time) this afternoon.
Cycling Distance: 60 km (optional)
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in the Arzachena countryside
La Maddalena and its Archipelago
Today you’ll ride along the coast towards Palau surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Costa Smeralda. Here you'll hop on a ferry for a short transfer (20 min) to La Maddalena- one of the most beautiful minor islands of the Mediterranean Sea.
The Archipelago of La Maddalena National Park - was constituted in 1996 for the protection of its fauna and flora.
From La Maddalena you'll pass through the breakwater of Passo della Moneta that joins the minor islands on your way to the Island of Caprera. Then you'll cycle along a rural road through a beautiful pine forest to the centre of the island. From here you can see the coast of nearby Corsica. You'll return to Arzachena via the same route.
Cycling Distance: 75 km
Climb: +1041m / -1042m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Arzachena countryside
Arzachena to Santa Teresa di Gallura
Today you'll ride from the hotel through picturesque countryside, surrounded by ancient olive groves, fragrant maquis shrubland, and the occasional cork oak. You can stop at the enigmatic Nuraghe La Prisgiona - a prehistoric stone tower that stands as a silent sentinel of the past. This ancient monument, a testament to the island's rich history, offers a glimpse into the lives of early Sardinian civilizations. As you cycle further north the landscape changes from rolling hills to panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The final stretch of your ride takes you to the coastal town of Santa Teresa di Gallura with its sparkling turquoise waters and iconic granite cliffs.
Cycling Distance: 50.5 km
Climb: +833m / -912m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Santa Teresa di Gallura
Arrivederci Sardegna! Santa Teresa di Gallura to Bonifacio & Porto Vecchio
After breakfast we take a 1-hour ferry boat transfer to Bonifacio (Corsica) passing through the famous “Bocche di Bonifacio” (Bonifacio Mouths) and then it’s 'bienvenue à Corse!'
Bonifacio, built by the Genoese, has an interesting history. Today the busy marina is filled with luxury yachts and its streets lined with chic bars and restaurants. From here you'll begin your ride in Corsica to Porto Vecchio. The road is rolling hills and mostly inland. You can also choose a longer ride which takes you across the famous Palombaggia beach with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Take a cappuccino stop in Figari village or Sotta before continuing on to your seafront hotel in the harbour of Porto Vecchio. Tonight you can explore this upbeat city and visit its old town center, shops, museum and tower. Dine in one of the many restaurants or boulangeries in the marina.
Cycling Distance: 53 to 75 km
Climb: +775m / -816m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Porto Vecchio
Porto Vecchio to Levie (Ospedale Climb)
Today's route winds its way from Porto Vecchio through fragrant pine forests. The road climbs steadily, offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding countryside. You'll ride through the charming village of l'Ospedale, where you can pause to refuel while soaking in the local atmosphere. Continuing your ascent towards Zonza, you'll wind your way up through a series of hairpin bends with ever-changing views of the coastline and rugged interior. From here, the road descends towards Levie through picturesque villages and traditional Corsican hamlets and on to stunning views of the Alta Rocca region, a mountainous area known for its pristine natural beauty.
Cycling Distance: 57 km
Climb: +1618m / -799m
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: A Pignata in Levie countryside
Levie to Sartène via Caldane Thermal Baths OR via Propriano
You have two options for today's ride depending on the distance you want to cycle.
Option 1: You'll ride from your hotel through a landscape characterised by rolling hills and lush valleys, where the scent of pine and eucalyptus fills the air. On your way to the thermal baths of Bains de Caldane, the ride becomes increasingly scenic with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. As you approach Granace, the landscape becomes more rugged, with towering granite peaks dominating the horizon. From Granace, the road descends towards Sartène.
Option 2: This longer ride takes you to the pretty coastal town of Propriano. Here you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters and explore the charming harbour town before continuing on to Sartène.
Sartène, your home for the night, is a historic gem with a rich cultural heritage and is often referred to as the "City of the Hundred Towers". Its narrow streets, ancient buildings, and bustling market square offer a glimpse into Corsica's past.
Cycling Distance: 29 or 62 km
Climb Option 1: +550m / -1063m
Climb Option 2: +1218m / -1727m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Sartène,
Sartène to Bonifacio
Your last ride in Corsica is one the of the most scenic routes of the week. You'll cross the beaches of South-West Corsica, with views of Asinara Island (which is part of Sardinia).
You have two options again for today's ride.
Option 1: You'll start the day with a 4 km climb from Sartène to the summit in the Mola area. After catching your breath, you'll ride through an enchanting forest on your descent towards the Formagerie Mallaroni where you may be able to taste the fabulous local Pecorino cheese (if it is open). If you choose this route, the climb is harder but there is less traffic.
Option 2: From Sartène you will descend towards the sea for 22 km and then ride along the coast. This route is the easier option but there will be more traffic.
Both options take you to Bonifacio where you can spend the evening exploring the old town and marina.
Cycling Distance: 58 or 66km
Climb Option 1: +706m / -970m
Climb Option 2: +933m / -1194m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bonifacio
Au Revoir Corsica - Ferry back to Sardinia and cycle to Costa Smeralda.
This morning you'll take the 10am ferry from Bonifacio and say Au Revoir to Corsica.
The one hour boat ride back to Sardinia will again pass the Bocche di Bonifacio. On arrival at the harbour you'll leave your luggage with our driver and start your last ride in Sardinia.
You'll cycle towards San Pasquale overlooking the La Maddalena Archipelago and continue on to Palau and Porto Rafael - famous for its fortress and luxury villas.
You'll spend the last night of the tour back at your starting point where you can reflect on your journey while admiring the panoramic views from your hotel.
Cycling Distance: 46km
Climb: +982m / -882m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Arzachena
Departure from Arzachena
Arrivederci! / Au revoir!
Time to say goodbye. Please make your own onward travel after breakfast.
Cycling Distance: 0km
Meals: Breakfast
Download the Itinerary PDF here
All distances are approximate. Our tours often go off the beaten track and follow routes that are not always predictable. We cannot always guarantee the weather. For these reasons we may occasionally have to update our itineraries. We will only do this to improve your experience or for safety reasons. Our listed accommodation is always accurate at the time of writing but should we need to change you can rest assured that it will be for similar or better. Display price may differ to what is quoted as this tour is invoiced in the currency stated, and can be dynamic with daily exchange rates.
The Details
- 8 nights in superior hotels (double or twin share)
- Meals listed in the itinerary (All breakfasts, 1x dinner)
- Delivery and drop off bikes in Arzachena
- Professional bike fitting
- Private event RWGPS App for your mobile
- Sightseeing, restaurant and shopping suggestions
- Ferry from Sardinia to Corsica on Day 3 and ride back on Day 8
- Drink bottle
- Baggage transfer (except on 2 ferry crossings)
- International or domestic flights
- Passport and travel visa (if required)
- Arrival and departure transfers
- Bike hire (extra cost)
- Single room surcharge
- Optional activity costs
- Ferry Tickets to/from La Maddalena Island
- Personal expenses and drinks
- Travel insurance
- Tips for support crew.
- City Tax: each village charges a daily tax (between 0,70 to 2,50€) - cash only - direct to hotel for local administration
This tour is graded moderate (e-bike) to active as the terrain is hilly
The trip incorporates distances from 30 to 75 km with some substantial climbing days.
Active trips require cycling experience, but not technical expertise, as most road conditions are tarmac. Riders should be comfortable making sustained climbs, being in the saddle for longer, consecutive cycling days and for tackling one or two more difficult riding days.
To prepare, get out and ride three times a week, with a longer ride, up to 80km, on the weekends. Aim to feel comfortable spending several hours at a time in the saddle, and with cycling on back-to-back days. Try to ride in hillier areas to get used to climbing.
Please consider hiring an e-bike if you want an easier ride with a boost on the hills.
If you're unsure about anything, please see our FAQs page for extra information.
FAQsBooking information
Participants will be asked to complete a booking form after confirmation of their booking.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
To ensure the trip's viability with our suppliers, a minimum of typically 2 participants is usually required. Upon submitting your booking request, we will provide specifics regarding minimum numbers. Following trip confirmation, you may proceed with flight bookings and other travel arrangements. A ‘Limited’ trip status signifies limited spaces available. For trip status inquiries, kindly email or call our office.
DEPOSITS AND PAYMENTS
A deposit is required to secure your place on your selected tour departure. On receipt of your deposit, Global Cycling Adventures will email you a confirmation to verify your travel arrangements and advise final payment details. The final payment is normally required 60 days before departure date unless otherwise specified.
CANCELLATIONS & AMENDMENTS
All tour cancellations will require notification in writing to Global Cycling Adventures by the person participating on the tour. Please be advised that booking cancellations or amendments will incur relevant fees. Cancellation charges are tour-specific and timing-dependent. For a comprehensive outline of our terms and conditions, including the cancellation policy, please refer to the travel proposal provided by our team.
We recommend that you purchase cancellation insurance on payment of your tour deposit in case unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel your tour.
OVERSEAS JURISDICTION AND TERMS
For all overseas tours, the terms and conditions, laws, and jurisdiction of the destination country will apply. By booking a tour with us, you acknowledge and agree that local regulations, industry practices, and terms specific to the destination country may supersede or modify our standard terms. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with all applicable local laws and regulations while participating in the tour.
Don't just take our word for it
After 6 trips with Global Cycling this has to be up with the best! Mike our guide was outstanding. This tour was unforgettable, enough excitement without being dangerous, with very good quality hotels, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend.
Kristine & Ron
This was my first major overseas trip, and WOW what an experience. The trip was really well organised. I felt safe all the time, and the guides made sure that they took excellent care of us. We always knew what was happening and the non-cycling excursions were fantastic. I can't wait to do my next trip!
Kim Hamill
Excellent tour great to have 2 days at some places! Good mates and loads of fun! Rene was amazing - seems to really enjoy seeing the regular faces, always cheerful and ready to help!
Helene Hudson
The Croatian Islands are truly beautiful, each one with its own unique feel. We were lucky, due to an itinerary change, to also see the island of Brac. We met a great group of people on the tour and shared so much fun & laughter with them.The ceaseless attention and hard work of our guides (Toni & Josh) and their support crew (Captain Pave & his team) ensured that the week was absolutely amazing!
Sue & Geoff Welsh
The trip was, as expected, fantastic. Weather great, food great, company great, and fabulous accommodation. It was nice to be able to get in from a long days ride, and have a nana nap in a really nice hotel. ... on the last day I rode one of the new fangled e-bikes for the last stage into Santiago, and am now a convert. My road bike will probably never go on another tour. What a revelation. ... So in closing, probably one of the best tours I’ve been, I thoroughly enjoyed it and would absolutely recommend it to anyone.
John Hedge
I keep coming back because of the excellent service and results. They truly care about their clients and it shows in their work.
Great experience overall! The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, making the process smooth and enjoyable. I am very satisfied with the results.
Fantastic service! I was impressed by how quickly they responded to my inquiries and the quality of the final product. Highly recommend!
Excellent trip. I can't give Jo (tour leader) enough praise for the job he did and the support he gave us. The conditions for the majority of our trip were really challenging (weather-wise), and he was always there with a positive and friendly attitude. Ten stars!!! Lorna (guide) was incredible plus her salads were divine. The day cycling through Edinburgh was amazing, I so loved it in every way. The history, the miles of cycle paths - we went straight through the city center - just fabulous. I also loved Scone Palace for tea and scones, and cycling into Bettyhill - a relaxed day of beautiful scenery and easy riding. Guide lunches and snacks fantastic - so thoughtful and tasty for hungry riders!!
Wendy Norwood
Had an epic trip.
Well organised, great food, super accommodation, brilliant guides.
Bloody amazing Weather.
So pretty happy.
Maree
Super well organised - guide’s were very attentive to us all.
Super weather 1hr of rain for the whole 22days - John-o Groats was 14 degrees sunny, no wind, beautiful.
Well fed - morning and afternoon teas and lunches too.
Well worth the effort.
A great way to see the country at a slower pace.
Andrew
Andrew and I enjoyed our time in Madagascar immensely. The team were very well organised (in the context of the general chaos that is Madagascar!)
Naina, Tina, Fenu and Tulca were all excellent, and went to great lengths to make sure that we were having the best experience possible.
The route was very interesting and traversed evolving landscapes and communities as we headed South.
The rides were interspersed with non-riding days, that had hikes or interesting stopovers and/or gave us exposure to native flora and fauna.
The team provided excellent fresh food each day, with great variety and plenty.
Peter and Andrew
“We would highly recommend Global Cycling Adventures golf tour to Scotland. Our trip was very well organized playing a range of challenging Links courses on Scotland’s East Coast.
The Hotels, transport and staff were superb. A golf enthusiasts dream come true!”
Chris and Judy James
It was our first tour and was way above expectations---thank you
Bill & Christine
The overall experience was wonderful. A mix of fantastic scenery, daily exertion on the bikes, excellent tour guides who blended history ,geography and language with ensuring all participants were treated well.
Kees and Monica Haverkamp
This is a thank you and a huge recommendation to anyone interested in seeing Croatia the way we did with Global Adventure Guide. Everything about our trip in September was perfect, the boat, the guides, the food, the riding and Croatia itself was awesome. Our global adventure was brilliant!!
Ros
I enjoyed the Croatia bike and sail tour very much - making new friends, learning to e-bike and the beautiful warm clear azure blue sea are great memories of the trip for me.
Gary
The guides and crew were exceptional on our tour. I can’t say enough about how pleasant they all were.
Courtney Fraser
The tour guides and all crew made the experience exceptional. We chose this tour so that I had the option of either the Ebike or ordinary and ended up deciding each day which I would choose depending on the climbs.
Kate Williams
Fellow cyclists were a great bunch, we were lucky that we all got on so well, a lot of laughs. The most clearest of water and to be able to swim off the back of the boat, fab.
Chris Cantwell
Our special experience was the close encounter with the Lemurs at small nature reserve of Anja exceeded expectations.
Mora Mora.
Alistair and Ann
The group was very good, good atmosphere and help from all participants.
Jef Raus
The whole tour was fantastic. Loved the food/culture/people and of course the bike riding. The support from staff during the tour was beyond the call of duty and the local guides were wonderful.
Greg Griffith
It was excellent! Our tour leader was helpful on every front, plus we had 5 others as part of the support team. They all worked really well together, were lovely and made things seamless for us. We ate really well, the lunches they prepared for us on the road were great, I might even say they were the best I had on a cycling tour. The restaurants they picked for the restaurant meals were good choices to give us some variety.
The routes were generally good, giving us a nice variety of landscapes and towns. To my surprise (I’m not much into hiking) I enjoyed the hikes and parks on the non-cycling days, particularly the latter 2. I wanted lemurs and I got many as well as cool other creatures in those parks as well as in our stay at Camp Catta (great location).
Our group got along really well & friendships were made. Anyway, it was a great trip, I am really happy with the experience. So a big thank you for everything!
Linda S
I have done a few bike trips with GCA and Costa Rica/Panama lived up to the usual high standards. We had excellent care and service from the local guide (Mike) and his crew. The biking highlight for me was descending the Irazú volcano, a drop of some 2000 meters on excellent road. Some non riding highlights would be Ziplining through the tropical rainforest.
Robin Morton
The Costa Rica/Panama cycle tour was a magnificent blend of biking and exploring these two countries hitting all the high points, from sandy beaches on the coast to active volcanoes in the interior as well as numerous other activities, including rafting, exploring wildlife in the immense jungles and of course the canal; couldn't think of a better way to do it, Global Cycling put together a truly memorable itinerary. Amazing to think what was packed in to just two weeks!
Martin Moore
I want to give a big shout out to Ralph and Global Cycling Adventures (GCA) for the recent bike tour through Costa Rica and into Panama. This was our second tour with GCA (following a tour through Vietnam and into Cambodia back in 2019). My wife and I joined the Costa Rica tour with 15 others and had a blast. Throw some zip-lining and white water rafting in and there was something new and different every day. A highly recommended this tour for those who want to experience Central America through Costa Rica into Panama via MTB.
Matthew Riordan
Enjoyed the Gobi Desert with visits to Flaming Red Cliffs and Singing Dunes. The friendly locals and the little 'treats' they gave us.
Greg Griffith
An amazing experience for a keen mountain biker who has been with Global Adventures for several trips throughout the world and for years to come. My wife also loves the way she is catered for as a non-biker. The experience starts with the promotional material, then the detailed notes, the trip itself and the final celebratory dinner.
John Brannock
This trip was an awesome adventure to a very special unique country. The nomadic people showed us how simple yet rewarding life can be, in what can be a very harsh environment.
Ann & Alistair Bennett
A very special challenging 3 weeks spent in a gorgeous part of the world with awesome company. To quote the feelers "It's as good as it gets".
Pete Richards
Fantastic trip. Cycling the HCM trail was superb. We understand many of the cycling trips are only down the southern coastal route but the northern sector from HaNoi down the HCM trail is a must. Highly recommend Global Adventure.
Ross
The whole thing was special for us, we had a great time. Great group of people.
Eddie and Anita Corrigan
Ajaccio to Calvi was one of the best road rides I've done anywhere, Excellent mountain roads, well graded climbs, coupled with great scenery, through a world heritage area & overlooking the Mediterranean.The Sardinian Island of San Pietro was nice riding and very interesting from a traditional cultural perspective.Robert, our guide was extremely helpful and looked after the riders very well. He was attentive but still allowed us to do our own thing. VERY safety conscious which is crucial.
John
The wonderful scenery & the choice of towns/cities were well researched. We both had a great time.
Marianne & John
Our special experience: Mingling with the "real" people of Africa and realising how lucky we are in NZ. Our in- house quote was DIA, meaning 'dis is Africa!
Alistair & Ann
Twice on tour I had the best day of my life!
Gary
The people were wonderful - so friendly, the children would run from far in the fields to see us on our bikes for lots of high 5's. The game drives were amazing, we saw so much in Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara...I loved Tanzania and this experience got me out of my comfort zone
Murray Booth
If you could hand pick your group you would never come up with a team like this one. The biking is the catalyst but it was so much fun that some days, the face and the sides hurt more than the legs.
It seemed that most of the time there was a thrilling view or a surprise around every corner.
The inclusion of some iconic cultural and heritage sites into the program is a highlight.
Carolyn & Warren Mckenzie
So many special experiences with lots of "Firsts" ie. 141kms in one day!!!! Klaus and Sabine's dedication to us, making it such an awesome experience with their ongoing help in explaining and interpreting local customs and language.
Alistair and Anne
If you want a tour where every day is different, the scenery stunning and the distances long enough that you have earned that extra piece of apple strudel then this is the tour for you!
Vicki
The trip exceeded my expections and we all loved Hoa. He was perfect for our group! Even the things out of our control (weather, flights being on time, etc) went perfect.
Kymberly Lehenbauer USA
We had an amazing time on our trip and would like to take this opportunity to say how great the three guides were. They looked after us so well, providing snacks, checking our bikes and ensuring that our experiences were outstanding. I have no hesitation in recommending this tour and the Halong Bay trip to anyone that will listen. Thank you to you for your part in the organization of our trip as well.
Peter
I thought the Island of Corsica was the highlight. Cycling predominately near the coastline,and the deep blue of the Mediteranean was very picturesque. Looking forward to the next trip.
Graeme Oakley
Everything was done very well. South Africa is a magical destination for cyclists.
Sue Semple-Rowland
The e-bikes certainly enhanced our enjoyment of the spectacular journey this tour offers. Totally would recommend e-bikes on this tour!
Alistair & Ann Bennett
Overall the tour was excellent!
David Williams
My special experience of the tour was: My decision to go with the ebike. Great experience using the Stromer. Made my holiday very enjoyable.
Cheryl Van
The whole tour was fantastic. Loved the food/culture/people and of course the bike riding. The support from staff during the tour was beyond the call of duty and the local guides were wonderful.
Greg Griffith
Destination excellent, fellow passengers like a family outing, very congenial atmosphere.
Fantastic experience and great scenery.
Great fun and a wonderful way to sight-see.
Top notch, as good as it gets. A very special trip spreading the Kiwi love.
We had an awesome time in both Bhutan & Sikkim. The cycling was hard in both places - either up or down - there is no flat - but the scenery, people, culture etc. made all the effort worthwhile.
The guides and crew were exceptional on our tour. I can’t say enough about how pleasant they all were.
A great blend of adventure, fun and social activity!
What an incredible romp through Bavaria and along the Danube! An amazing journey of changing sights and sounds, whether biking through meadows accompanied to the sound of cow bells, past castle ruins, under historic Abbeys, through vineyards, or alongside the mighty Danube it was never a dull moment.
Why Travel with global cycling adventures?
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Connect with ease. Our dynamic New Zealand based agency specialises in elevating your international cycling and golf getaways.
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We have over 20 years experience and many of our clients tour with us year after year. Several clients have done over 25 tours with us.
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We value the privilege to explore the world by bike. We partner with organisations and people that behave with respect and awareness to minimise any negative impact.
Giving Back
We believe our tours should improve life for the people and places we visit and leave a positive impact. We work in partnership with local people and providers who have local knowledge.
