Technical trails, enduro descents, and panoramic routes between limestone Tacchi and the coast
Ogliastra is an emerging MTB destination attracting the attention of mountain bikers from all over Europe. The territory offers an extraordinary variety of terrain in a geographically compact area: in a single day, you can ride among the inland limestone Tacchi in the morning and reach the sea in the afternoon, traveling along trails you won't find in any other Italian destination.
The Supramonte of Baunei offers technical and panoramic trails across karstic plateaus, with views of the Gulf of Orosei opening up suddenly between the holm oaks. The Tacchi of Jerzu and Ulassai host demanding enduro routes: climbs on steep dirt roads, descents on exposed singletracks between limestone towers, and lunar landscapes that don't seem to belong to Europe. The hinterland of Villagrande and Arzana offers longer routes through holm oak and downy oak forests along the paths of the Blue Zone centenarians, with historic mule tracks connecting the highland villages.
The coast is no exception: the route from Arbatax to the Rocce Rosse and on towards Coccorrocci, or the loop climbing from Santa Maria Navarrese to Baunei with sea views, are experiences that no other sport offers with the same freedom and speed. E-MTBs have revolutionized access to the most demanding routes: now, even those without an athlete's physical condition can tackle loops with high elevation changes, enjoying the descent after an assisted climb.
Bike rentals (hardtail, full suspension, and E-MTB) are available in Tortolì, Santa Maria Navarrese, and Baunei. Certified MTB guides accompany groups and individuals on routes of all levels.
The most demanding routes in Ogliastra are among the most spectacular in Southern Italy. The Anello del Golgo starts from Baunei and crosses the karstic plateau between shepherds' folds and Mediterranean scrub, with a singletrack descent towards the sea. The Tacchi of Jerzu offer the longest and most technical enduro route: 35 km with 900 meters of elevation gain among limestone towers and Cannonau vineyards. The Via dei Centenari connects Villagrande to Arzana via historic mule tracks and untouched forests — a ride through time as well as space. For speed seekers, downhill riding on the Tacchi of Ulassai offers technical descents on limestone with views as far as the eye can see.
The most scenic MTB route in Ogliastra: 22 km with 650 m of elevation gain. Climb towards the Golgo plateau on a panoramic dirt road, cross between shepherds' folds and scrub, and descend on a singletrack towards Santa Maria Navarrese. Views of the Gulf of Orosei at every turn.
Discover Baunei →The main enduro route in Ogliastra: 35 km with 900 m of elevation gain among limestone towers. Climb on a steep dirt road towards the Tacchi, cross the border with Ulassai on a technical singletrack, and make an exposed descent with views of Cannonau vineyards. For experienced riders.
Discover Jerzu →A route in the hinterland of the Blue Zone: 28 km between Villagrande and Arzana on historic mule tracks and forestry roads through holm oak forests. Untouched mountain landscape, springs, wetlands. Stopping at the bar in Villagrande for a coffee with the centenarians is an integral part of the experience.
Discover Villagrande Strisaili →MTB climb towards the roof of Sardinia: the final section is on foot (the bike is left before the final trail), but the route up to the highest ridable altitude offers breathtaking views of the Ogliastra valleys. E-MTB recommended for the climb.
Discover Arzana →Not all MTB routes in Ogliastra require the muscles of an athlete and the technique of an expert. The coastline of Tortolì and Arbatax offers a coastal itinerary perfect for families: a nearly flat trail between beaches, clear waters visible from the path, and opportunities for swim stops. The loop around the coast near Lotzorai is accessible to children aged 10 and up. The trails of Seui, the highest village in Ogliastra, offer quiet forestry roads through chestnut woods — perfect for a ride through nature and history without too much effort. E-MTBs have leveled the fitness playing field: even those without training can enjoy routes with larger elevation changes thanks to electric assistance.
Easy itinerary between the beaches of Tortolì and Arbatax: 18 nearly flat kilometers between Lido di Orrì, Porto Frailis, and the Rocce Rosse. A mix of cycle path, coastal trail, and short asphalt sections. Perfect for families, with swimming stops at every beach.
Discover Tortolì →The highest village in Ogliastra offers forestry routes on dirt roads among holm oaks and chestnut trees. The section along the old disused railway is a gem: it traverses the mountain on a flat track with bridges and tunnels. Suitable for beginner-intermediate level.
Discover Seui →Route leading to the base of the iconic isolated limestone tower of Perda Liana. Forestry roads on compact ground, without extreme technicalities. The landscape context is unique: the isolated limestone monolith emerges from the plain like a millenary sentinel.
Discover Gairo →Everything about Baunei: the historic centre, the Supramonte, the Golgo plateau, Su Sterru, the rural churches, where to eat and sleep. The definitive guide.
Read article →The best MTB routes in Ogliastra: from the Supramonte to the coast, through dirt trails and limestone towers. Difficulty levels, elevation gains, and tips.
Read article →Explore the municipalities, plan your itinerary, and discover other outdoor experiences.