Santa Barbara Trail by gravel bike 9-stage itinerary in southern Sardinia
- Mtb life
- June 24, 2025
Route designed by Massimo Compagnin, photos and travel story by Valeria Viganò.
Organization and logistics
To embark on this gravel tour along the Santa Barbara Trail, we decided to fly to Cagliari, which is the most convenient and strategic airport to reach southwestern Sardinia. Our bikes were packed in dedicated travel bags, ready for the adventure.
Once we landed, we relied on a private shuttle service that picked us up directly at the airport and took us to Iglesias, where we had booked our first night in a hotel. Besides being one of the most fascinating towns in the Sulcis region, Iglesias was both our starting and ending point for the tour.
After spending the night and reassembling our bikes, we officially began our multi-stage itinerary, which led us along wild coastlines, abandoned mining villages, and spectacular singletrack trails, covering the entire southwestern part of the island.
After nine days of travel and adventure, we returned to Iglesias, where we had stored our bike bags at the hotel. We disassembled the bikes, packed them up again, and with the same shuttle service, headed back to Cagliari for our return flight.
A simple yet effective organization that allowed us to experience the tour in complete autonomy and without any logistical concerns.
Introduction to the Santa Barbara cycling trail
The Santa Barbara Trail is a fascinating route in southern Sardinia, ideal for gravel bikers seeking an experience immersed in wild nature, historical mines, and authentic villages. This itinerary is designed to be completed in nine stages, crossing some of the most stunning areas of the Sulcis-Iglesiente region.
Complete route of the Santa Barbara Trail
Go to GPS tracks for each stage.
From Iglesias to Portixeddu: the first stage between mines and coastal landscapes
The first stage starts in Iglesias and ends in Portixeddu. You ride along dirt trails through Mediterranean vegetation, past former mining sites, and enjoy breathtaking sea views.
From Portixeddu to Guspini: crossing the heart of Sulcis
The second stage continues from Portixeddu to Guspini, with hilly terrain and agricultural landscapes. A challenging but rewarding stage, perfect for those who enjoy varied surfaces and adventure.
From Guspini to Iglesias via Villacidro: a scenic detour
This third stage forms a loop connecting Guspini and Iglesias via Villacidro, through forests, mountains, and scenic dirt tracks. Ideal for discovering the inland charm of Sardinia.
From Domusnovas to Piscinas: between dunes and industrial archaeology
The fourth stage begins in Domusnovas and ends in Piscinas, where you’ll find desert-like landscapes, the famous Piscinas dunes, and remnants of Sulcis’s mining history.
From Piscinas to Sant’Antioco: heading towards the southwest coast
The fifth stage goes from Piscinas to Sant’Antioco, along a route combining secondary roads, dirt trails, and stunning coastal stretches. Perfect for sea lovers.
From Casedda to Sant’Antioco via Caseleta: island nature and history
The sixth stage links Casedda, Caseleta, and Sant’Antioco. It explores the inland part of the island with technical sections and rural views, before returning to the coast and discovering Sant’Antioco Island.
From Carbonia to Portoscuso: between industrial history and the sea
The seventh stage runs from Carbonia to Portoscuso, crossing areas rich in industrial heritage, hilly landscapes, and views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Ideal for those who enjoy mixing culture and cycling.
Carloforte Island: a stage dedicated to exploration
The eighth stage takes place entirely on San Pietro Island, better known as Carloforte. Here you can explore gravel trails along the coast, cliffs, lighthouses, and small beaches.
Return to Iglesias: closing the loop of the trail
The ninth and final stage takes riders back to Iglesias, completing the loop of the Santa Barbara Trail. A moment to reflect on the journey after having crossed one of the most authentic areas of Sardinia.
Why choose the Santa Barbara Trail for a gravel bike tour
- Perfect for gravel bikes thanks to dirt and secondary roads
- Varied terrain: sea, mountains, history, and nature
- Support from local organizations and visible trail markers
- Easy to divide into daily stages
- Best enjoyed in spring and autumn for mild weather and beautiful light
Practical tips for riding the Santa Barbara Trail
- Bring a gravel bike with tires at least 38mm wide
- Check water points and food stops before each stage
- Use updated GPS tracks and offline maps
- Stay in B&Bs, farm stays, or campsites along the route
- Recommended gear: lightweight bikepacking bags, puncture repair kit, lights, and power bank
GPX files for all stages of the Santa Barbara Gravel Bike Trail
Santa Barbara Gravel Sardinia photo gallery
