A’qto Cycling, one of Australia’s leading boutique providers of Italian cycling tours, has announced a new addition to its itinerary for 2026: Sardinia. This latest tour, scheduled from 20 to 27 June 2026, will offer cyclists and their non-riding partners an immersive eight-day experience through one of Italy’s most untouched and scenic regions. With its signature blend of cycling, cultural exploration, and hospitality, the Sardinia tour promises a new and balanced journey for adventure seekers and lifestyle travelers alike.
The Sardinia tour will host a maximum of 14 guests, creating an intimate and tailored group environment. It is specifically designed for seasoned cyclists seeking a moderately challenging ride and for their non-cycling companions looking for meaningful engagement with the destination. Positioned between the difficulty levels of A’qto’s Puglia and Tuscany tours, the Sardinia route includes a mix of coastal and mountainous terrain, offering moderate climbs alongside cultural immersion and regional culinary delights.
Nancy De Losa, co-founder of A’qto Cycling, emphasized the motivation behind the new tour, noting the evolving expectations of their clients. She explained that more cyclists today are looking for experiences that go beyond riding—ones that offer opportunities to connect with local life, traditions, and flavors. According to De Losa, the Sardinia tour was curated to meet this growing demand by combining satisfying cycling routes with time to explore the unique heritage of the island.
The route has been crafted to take riders through dramatic natural landscapes, quiet village roads, and mural-covered hilltop towns. It follows a structure similar to A’qto’s other Italian tours in Tuscany, Sicily, Piedmont, Stelvio & Dolomites, and Puglia, offering a seamless blend of riding, boutique accommodations, regional gastronomy, and parallel programs for non-cycling guests. De Losa described Sardinia as “wild, beautiful, and rich in tradition,” praising its potential as a haven for cyclists who want mid-range climbs and rewarding post-ride cultural experiences.
The tour includes diverse daily rides that traverse coastal stretches, mountain passes, and rustic inland roads. After the rides, guests can unwind with optional cultural activities such as local wine tastings, artisan studio visits, and guided walks through the region. Culinary highlights are central to the experience, with exclusive events such as a traditional Sardinian cooking class led by a local nonna and seasonal dinners that showcase the island’s rich flavors.
In line with A’qto’s inclusive approach, the tour also offers a full program for non-cycling partners. This parallel itinerary includes guided cultural and outdoor activities designed to reflect the soul of Sardinia. Participants will explore Alghero—known as ‘Little Barcelona’—visit a red coral artisan, hike the dramatic Gorropu Canyon (one of Europe’s deepest), and enjoy a scenic boat and snorkeling trip in the Gulf of Orosei. Other highlights include wine tastings and a cooking experience inspired by Sardinian Nobel Prize-winning author Grazia Deledda.
The Sardinia tour fills a distinct niche in A’qto’s offering. With a difficulty level placed between its Puglia (6/10) and Tuscany (8/10) tours, it appeals to riders who want a ride that is physically rewarding but also leaves space to enjoy the surroundings. Damian Hancock, A’qto’s co-founder, highlighted the importance of providing guests with more than just physical challenge. He pointed out that travelers today are increasingly seeking “immersive, authentic, and beautifully paced” experiences, and Sardinia is a destination that delivers on all fronts.
In recent years, Sardinia has grown in appeal not only to travelers fascinated by its natural beauty and cultural depth but also to cyclists and adventure tourists exploring less-trodden paths. De Losa noted that interest in the region has been on the rise, citing its quiet roads, rugged scenery, and strong local identity as key draws for discerning travelers. With the addition of Sardinia, A’qto Cycling continues to evolve its portfolio, offering new experiences while maintaining the essence of its bespoke Italian tours.
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