Giro Sardegna Gravel

Date
Friday 01.05.2026
Distances
78 - 110 km
City
Muravera-Villasimius
Country
Italy

The Giro Sardegna Gravel is part of the existing Giro Sardegna road racing week with daily events on the island of Sardinia. The gravel event will be added for the third time on Friday May 1st.

Course

The race unfolds across two distinct sections:

  • Coastal Section: Flat, fast roads with smooth surfaces and some asphalt stretches. The route skirts inland ponds, crosses a fishpond, and runs alongside the Flumendosa River.
  • Inland Section: Predominantly dirt roads with gentle undulations and one long, panoramic climb (never overly demanding). Overall, the course is technically simple and very fast.

Route Details

  • Start: Grids are positioned in front of Hotel Villaggio Colostrai, between the beach and the internal pond. The gravel begins almost immediately along the pond.
  • Initial Segment: After circling the pond, the route alternates between asphalt and dirt before entering the fishpond area, crossing a striking barrage between inland and marine waters. It then rejoins asphalt leading to the SS125 and the village of San Priamo, where the 50 km circuit starts.
    • Lap Structure:
      • Elite & younger Age Categories: 2 laps
      • Older Age Categories: 1 lap

Circuit Highlights

  1. SS125 Stretch → Fast dirt road with a first feed zone
  2. Long Dirt Road → Begins the only real climb (343 m), offering panoramic views of Colostrai Valley → Partial paved descent.
  3. San Vito Section: Alternating asphalt and dirt → Flumendosa River banks → Long dirt track through the delta → Muravera → Second Feed zone
  4. Final Segment: Uphill dirt road to Arcu Senni Forestry Barracks → Back to SS125 → Return to San Priamo.

Finish

  • Short Course: From San Priamo, the course heads back to Colostrai pond and finish at Hotel Villaggio Colostrai.
  • Elite & younger Age Categories: Complete a second lap before returning to the finish line.

Profile

Each lap has one major climb, going from sea level to a maximum elevation of 343m above the sea.  Total climbing is respectively 1220m and 653m for the long and short distance.

GIRO SARDEGNA

GiroSardegna is an event crafted for both racing enthusiasts and those seeking an enjoyable cycling experience amidst nature. The prerequisites for this event include the breathtaking beauty of specific locations at a particular time of the year, such as the vibrant colors and scents of spring in Sardinia. The chosen hotels are of high quality, and a unique camaraderie is fostered among participants. With convenient schedules, impeccable roads, and picturesque natural surroundings, the Giro has become an unparalleled global event, characterized by the right philosophy and well-executed organization.

This stage race follows the model of iconic cycling events like the Giro d’Italia or Tour de France, with a notable difference – at the end of the week, every participant feels victorious. The key to the Giro’s success lies in the personal connection riders establish with their opponents from the first stage, making them the focus of competition throughout the week. Even those finishing an hour behind the leaders meticulously study the rankings.

The race offers two routes: the Blue Route for MedioGiro participants, featuring stages of medium difficulty and distance, and the Red Route for GranGiro participants, comprising longer stages with additional climbs. Participants exhibit varying skill levels, with cycling averages ranging from 40 to 20 hours.

Race departures maintain an ancient tradition, with two grids for all cyclists (men and women) and two starts for the five road stages. In the time trial, starts are in reverse order to the general classification. A notable addition in 2024 is the Gravel race in the fifth stage, encompassing a mountainous section and a marine part through Berchida Beach and the Bidderosa Natural Oasis.

The GiroSardegna attracts over 500 athletes annually, with 70% being Italians and 30% representing other European and global nations. In 2024, all GiroSardegna participants will join the UCI Gravel World Series, providing an opportunity for a cycling week in Sardinia and a chance to qualify for the Gravel World Championship.

Hotel Villaggio Colostrai – A Coastal Retreat in Sardinia

Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Muravera, Sardinia, Hotel Villaggio Colostrai offers a tranquil escape right on the beach. This charming property combines comfort, hospitality, and natural beauty, making it ideal for both relaxation and outdoor activities.  This is the central hub for the event where registrations are organized and start-finish are located.

Location

  • Situated in Villaggio Colostrai, Muravera, along Via Della Spiaggia, the hotel enjoys a prime beachfront position.
  • Close to attractions such as Capo Ferrato, Torre Salinas, and Spiaggia di Feraxi, perfect for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.

Accommodation & Amenities

  • Offers a range of rooms, including Classic Double, Triple, and Sea View options, designed for comfort and convenience.
  • Key amenities include:
    • Private beach access
    • Outdoor pool
    • Restaurant and bar/lounge
    • Kids’ club and family-friendly activities
    • Evening entertainment
    • Free breakfast and Wi-Fi in public areas
    • Pet-friendly options (dogs allowed)

Experience

  • Guests appreciate the serene setting, cleanliness, and friendly service.
  • Ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway or families looking for a relaxing holiday.
  • Activities include tennis, five-a-side football, and excursions to explore Sardinia’s stunning coastline