“This weekend was wonderful,” whispers a man with a Cuneo accent, while observing the murals of Orgosolo from the saddle of his road bike. “I felt at home, perhaps because I am originally from a small town in Piedmont. Look, your towns are very similar to ours. I feel lucky because I was able to admire them in an unusual period, in complete tranquility, without the summer crowds. This is also the magic of cycle tourism.”
Bike Tour Barbagia
They came from all over the Peninsula. Over fifty cyclists invaded the streets of Barbagia, for three days to spend with their inseparable two-wheelers. Between hairpin bends, breathtaking views and quality food and wine. All possible thanks to an event organized by "Three Experience", with the contribution of the regional Tourism Department. "The Bike Tour Barbagia is not just a sporting event but an opportunity to promote active and sustainable tourism in the inland areas of Sardinia, enhancing the natural and cultural heritage of a unique territory - says Councilor Franco Cuccureddu -. Events like this are essential to deseasonalize the tourist offer, creating an economic spin-off even in the winter months. Cycle tourism, in particular, represents a strategic lever to attract visitors interested in authentic experiences and direct contact with the nature and traditions of our land".
Cycle tourism
The sporting aspect almost took a back seat. The heart of the Island gave its best. It showed itself from an unusual perspective. Magical places but not only. Then, acclaimed hospitality. The cyclists touched the territories of Gavoi, Lodine, Fonni, Orgosolo. And again, Ovodda, Teti, Tiana and Mamoiada. The Island put itself on display even in the so-called "other season". "We proudly hosted a stage of the Bike Tour Barbagia, an event that celebrates not only sport but also the identity and excellence of our territory - remarks Salvatore Lai, mayor of Gavoi -. Our town, with Lake Gusana, was the beating heart of this event that leads to the discovery of the beauties of Barbagia".
Davide Cannata, an expert sailor with the Luna Rossa team and a great cycling enthusiast, points out: «In my daily life I ride my bike in the Cagliari area, at Poetto. Here, however, I was able to admire new and wonderful landscapes». Daniela Falconi, mayor of Fonni, concludes: «I am very happy that my town has welcomed this important event. It is not just an event, but what we would like our roads to become for tourism development. The hope is that these events will raise greater awareness. I wish there were a thousand opportunities like this, in which travellers visit the area, appreciate our cuisine and sleep in our hotels».
