Northern Sardinia Islands and Corsica Escape | Self-Guided Bike Tour

Vermentino vineyards and the Nuragic civilization

Setting out from the picturesque bay of Cannigione, our journey takes us inland to the heart of Gallura, where ancient agricultural traditions thrive in timeless landscapes. Here, amidst rolling hills and lush valleys, we discover the proud heritage of Vermentino di Gallura DOCG wine production, a testament to centuries of winemaking excellence.

As we venture deeper into the interior, we uncover the fascinating remnants of the Nuragic civilization, which highlight Sardinia’s rich history dating back three millennia. The land, once shaped by these ancient peoples, now presents a serene scene of natural beauty, featuring Mediterranean scrublands, majestic oak forests, and gently rolling pastures stretching as far as the eye can see.

Historically, agriculture has been the lifeblood of Gallura’s economy, supported by its fertile soils and temperate climate. Olive groves, vineyards, orchards, and fields of golden grains adorn the countryside, with each harvest celebrated as a testament to the land’s abundance. However, the rugged terrain and limited water sources have always posed significant challenges to traditional farming practices.

In the past fifty years, Gallura has experienced a profound economic transformation, propelled by the growth of tourism and evolving agricultural practices. Nevertheless, the agricultural legacy remains a cornerstone of the region’s identity and prosperity, promoting both the diversification and sustainability of its cultural and natural landscape.

Riding along the deep blue sea of La Maddalena and Caprera islands

After breakfast, you will head north along the beautiful coastline. From Palau port, you’ll take a ferry to La Maddalena Island, one of the most unspoiled landscapes on the planet. Here, you will discover hidden gems, including pristine sandy coves, mesmerizing granite formations sculpted over centuries, and a sea displaying a palette of azure, emerald, and jade hues.

Your journey continues to La Maddalena Island, which is connected to Caprera Island, the esteemed home of Giuseppe Garibaldi, the revered hero of Italian unification. The ride is a living masterpiece, particularly enchanting during the spring and autumn seasons when the islands are dressed in their finest attire.

As the day unfolds, you will bid farewell to this captivating realm and return to the mainland aboard the ferry, taking with you the memories of an unforgettable journey along the coastal wonders of Sardinia.

Santa Teresa di Gallura and Capo Testa cape

Today, we set off on an exciting journey from Cannigione to Santa Teresa, the northernmost tip of Sardinia. Our route takes us inland, through the stunning Gallura countryside, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and occasional glimpses of the sparkling sea on the horizon. We’ll pass through the charming town of Arzachena before reaching the picturesque gorge of San Pasquale, which sits proudly on a small hill and offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

As you arrive in the seaside village of Santa Teresa, you’ll immediately feel the inviting warmth of its atmosphere. Just a stone’s throw away are the renowned beaches of Capo Testa, celebrated for their enchanting sea colors that never fail to captivate visitors. Santa Teresa boasts a rich and compelling history. Founded in the early 19th century by King Victor Emmanuel I of Sardinia, the village was named in honor of his beloved wife, Maria Teresa. Its roots trace back to ancient Roman times, and it has served a crucial role in naval history. Today, Santa Teresa stands as not only a picturesque destination but also a place steeped in profound historical significance.

Discovering Southern Corsica

Today we will make our foray into Corsica! 

We will begin our journey early in the morning by taking a ferry from Santa Teresa di Gallura to Bonifacio, which takes about 40 minutes. Once we arrive in Bonifacio, our ride will start immediately from the marina. As we head toward Sartene, we’ll notice the difference in landscape between Gallura and Corsica. The granite that we saw in Gallura will be replaced by the white limestone cliffs of Corsica. The road winds between the coastline and the countryside, and after a beautiful climb, we will reach Rocca Pina. Here, we can take a break at the bar-restaurant with a stunning view of the coasts of Corsica and Sardinia. On our way back, a detour will lead us to explore the cliffs of Bonifacio. While we wait for the return ferry, we can stroll through the old city, which is rich in history due to its strategic position in the Mediterranean.