It has been called the “Gem of the Mediterranean”, and for good reason. Sardinia is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether it’s the ancient architecture scattered about the island, the fascinating culture of the people who live there, the authentic Italian cuisine or the glorious climate, Sardinia’s sure to please. And with nearly 2,000 km of dazzling coastline, it’s a beach lover’s dream. One of the best ways to explore and experience this beautiful island is on bike. Here are five reasons to add Sardinia to your cycling itinerary.
The Grottos
One of the most interesting things to be discovered on Sardinia is the multitude of grottos found there. These ancient caves offer a fascinating glimpse into the natural beauty of the island as it has been formed over millions of years. The Neptunes Grotto contains a series of underground caverns located just outside of Alghero. It can be accessed by boat or, if you’re brave, by taking the 654 steps down from Capo Caccio. The Bue Marino Grotto is accessible only by boat and is thought to have been once used as a place of worship during the Neolithic Age. Enjoy the brilliant rock formations or look for the elusive monk seal while you glide through.
If it’s stalagmites you’re interested in, the Grotto of Ispinigoli is a must-see. There is evidence of ancient human inhabitation there dating back as far as the prenuragic period. In fact, the famous “Cavern of the Virgins” is named for the human sacrifices thought to have once taken place there. It’s a place of incredible natural wonders and intriguing history.
Cagliari
The capital of Sardinia, this ancient city has a long and fascinating history spanning several civilizations. Not surprisingly, there are plenty of historical sites to see here, including the Basilica of San Saturnino, which is hailed as one of the most important Palaeo-Christian monuments on the island. The Cathedra of Cagliari was erected in the 13th century and remains an exquisite testament to the variety of architectural styles used over the years. The oldest part of this charming city sits high atop a hill, overlooking the Gulf of Cagliari. It is also home to one of Italy’s longest beaches and some interesting and unique cuisine. There’s so much to do and see in this lovely city that it’s hard to fit it all in.
The Never-ending Coastline
One of the best features of Sardinia is the seemingly never-ending coastline. With sand and sea that stretches for nearly 2,000km, you’ll never be without a place to ride. And with the varying terrain, you’ll get to experience exhilarating cycling while also enjoying the beautiful surrounding landscape. Enjoy a leisurely ride along Costa Verde, sometimes called the “silent coast” because of the surrounding bushes that protect it, and the peaceful deer that often graze along the greenery. Take a break to swim in the glorious Mediterranean waters, considered by some to be the clearest in the world. Or take a spin through Capo Mannu and visit some of the quaint, friendly towns and try a taste of fresh local cuisine, like sea urchin. Whichever beach you choose to ride along, it’s certain to be a relaxing and memorable experience.
Su Nuraxi Nuraghe
This massive fortress located in Cagliari, is one of the most famous on the island and is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sardinia. The remains of the once flourishing structure are still mostly intact, with 14.10 m of the central tower still standing. There are also ruins of the surrounding village to explore. Experts disagree over the exact history of the building and the various huts strewn around it, but most believe they were constructed as defense structures in order to protect the territory. Regardless of their original purpose, a visit to the Su Nuraxi Nuraghe offers an incredible look back in time.
Environment
Sardinia is a nature-lovers dream, with 3 National Parks and 10 Regional Parks, covering a total of over 600,000 hectares of environmentally preserved territory. The island is also home to a wide variety of animals and plant life. The Sardinian people take environmental issues very seriously, with laws in place that prohibit any new building activities near forests, lakes or along the coast. They are also currently working on harnessing the power of the wind to be used for renewable energy on the island. There’s no better place to cycle where nature is so respected and cherished.
Sardinia is a beautiful island with so much to offer visitors, it’s almost impossible to do it all in one stay. Breathtaking coastline, cultural discovery and outdoor adventure are just a few of the many things that await you there. And with a protected landscape that is as natural and pristine as it has been for centuries, Sardinia is the ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts. These are just five of the many reasons you should try it – why not plan a trip and discover your own reasons?
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