Sì ma quanto ti odio quando ti rivesti e vai via, e mi lasci come l’aglio nell’olio, come il terzo sul podio, che tristezza mamma mia
Aglio e olio – Fulminacci e Willie Peyote

Something’s got a hold of me lately. No, I don’t know myself anymore, feels like the walls are all closin’ in and the devil’s knockin’ at my door
Lose control – Teddy Swims

Sento colores alla radio, guido la blue summer attraverso Palermo, un’estate tra le tue braccia è più breve dei 3 minuti di rosa
Blue Summer – Dov’è Liana

Seven days, almost 450 kilometers, a whirlwind of emotions in Southwestern Sardinia. The Santa Barbara Mining Trail by bike is an adventure that unveils the wild beauty of this land, nestled in the Sulcis-Iglesiente region. You start in Iglesias, pedaling along the rugged coast, soaking in views of the iconic Pan di Zucchero and hidden coves. Then, it’s inland, through old mining towns and surreal landscapes, before circling back to the sea, where the islands of Sant’Antioco and San Pietro await.

The first leg of the journey, going through Nebida, Masua, Buggerru, and Portixeddu, is a total dream, with the coast dropping into the deep blue and views that will take your breath away. But the real challenge lies inland, with climbs that will test your legs and your grit. The stretch between Guspini and Arbus is a serious grind, as is the mountain pass of Orbai and Monte Rosas, tough climbs and rough terrain, but the views? Totally worth it. Reaching the top makes every drop of sweat worthwhile, even after I had to fix a flat tire first thing in the morning! Don’t miss the Grotte di San Giovanni near Domusnovas, the world’s longest drive-through cave.

I camped every night, free camping under the starry sky, lulled by the sound of the waves and waking up to the scent of the Mediterranean scrub. Except for New Year’s Eve, when I stayed at the Posada in Buggerru, run by the Santa Barbara Mining Trail Foundation. They manage the whole trail, offering places to stay, to help along the way, and provide the pilgrim’s credential for stamps. That night, I shared an awesome evening with fellow hikers. We had a takeaway feast delivered to the Posada, ate together, and at midnight, hit the beach for a toast and a dip in the sea. A New Year’s Eve to remember.

This trip is for experienced bike travellers, who love the challenge and the freedom, who aren’t afraid to get a little dirty and sleep under the stars. Sardinia, especially down south, is perfect for this kind of adventure any time of the year. Even in winter you get amazing days and the chance to sleep outdoors. It’s an adventure that will make you feel alive, reconnect with your wild side, and leave you with memories that’ll stick with you forever. Check out the landscapes and photos I snapped in the gallery below.