4.6
(20)
145
riders
35
rides
Touring cycling around Gonnacodina/Gonnoscodina offers routes through a landscape characterized by ancient basaltic plateaus and rolling hills. The region features significant archaeological sites, including Nuragic complexes, set amidst open countryside. These routes often traverse agricultural lands and provide views of the surrounding Sardinian terrain. The area's topography presents varied challenges, from moderate ascents to more demanding climbs.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
1
riders
46.3km
03:05
680m
680m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
2
riders
57.2km
03:48
880m
880m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(4)
31
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
23
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
11
riders
25.6km
02:29
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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The Nuraghe San Marco stands on the eastern outskirts of Genuri, on the slopes of the southwestern side of the Jara Manna, the largest and most famous Giara. The basalt used to build the monument came from the plateau, which was also a source of food and resources for the peoples who inhabited the Marmilla region, while marl was used for the restoration work that took place in later phases. The building has a complex structure, consisting of a keep and three towers, and it is surrounded by a rampart with five other towers, except for the north side, perhaps because the builders considered the natural protection of the Giara plateau sufficient. Curiously, the southeast tower has a smaller diameter than the other two, while the northeast wall, which follows the profile of the central tower, has sometimes been interpreted as the wall of a fourth corner tower. In the space between the keep and the connecting curtain walls between the towers is a crescent-shaped courtyard, accessed through the entrance to the building on the south side. From the courtyard, which also contains a well, one enters the keep and the corridors leading to the side towers. Inside the keep, the space is cruciform, with two niches at the front and a third opposite the staircase. The northwest tower features six loopholes, two niches, and the absence of an entrance corridor. It opens directly onto the courtyard. Archaeological research has revealed that between the Late Bronze Age and the Late Bronze Age, a destructive event occurred, with relative collapse and subsequent rebuilding: San Marco probably witnessed a – still mysterious – period of crisis and conflict between the Nuragic tribes between the 2nd and 1st millennium BC. The site shows traces of human presence in the Punic period, and there was undoubtedly a settlement there between the late Roman period and the Early Middle Ages. At least eleven "new" rooms were built or added over the nuraghe, some of which probably served as food storage rooms, while the courtyard and towers were used for various purposes, sometimes even for burials. https://www.sardegnaturismo.it/en/explore/nuraghe-san-marco
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Disused quarry, known by the name of "ziu Luisu". In the open air, there is also a tunnel closed by an iron gate. A little further on, on the right, a long descent begins that leads back to the country church of Santa Suia
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Inside are exhibited reproductions of ancient obsidian tools, and the works of the sculptor Karmine Piras.
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The Is Benas lake is located next to the pine forest of the same name. It is located in an arid area, between granite rocks.
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Here is the Luisu Sanna Mine, an old perlite quarry that was once the beating heart of local mining activity.
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The Therapeutic Community at Sorgenti, founded on April 28, 1988, is a residential facility that welcomes up to 24 adult male users. Located in one of the most suggestive places of Monte Arci, the facility is immersed in a vast pine forest, surrounded by woods, streams, a small lake and natural springs.
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beautiful church in a truly evocative environment due to the wild nature that characterizes it
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There are over 30 touring cycling routes in the Gonnacodina/Gonnoscodina region, offering a variety of experiences through basaltic plateaus and rolling hills.
The touring cycling routes in Gonnacodina/Gonnoscodina are generally categorized as moderate to difficult, with no routes specifically rated as easy. Most routes involve varied topography with ascents and descents, making them more suitable for cyclists with some experience.
The routes vary in length, with many covering distances between 27 and 35 miles (43-57 km). For example, the Giara di Siddi Loop is 28.8 miles (46.3 km), while The Nuraghe of Marmilla and the history of Obsidian - ring tour extends to 35.5 miles (57.2 km).
Yes, many touring cycling routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Giara di Siddi Loop and Su Nuraxi Archaeological Site – Giara di Gesturi Plateau loop from Aressa/Baressa.
The region offers several natural points of interest. You might encounter the Pauli Maiori Wetland, the ancient Ancient Cork Oak, or the unique geological features of the Giara di Siddi plateau.
Absolutely. Gonnacodina/Gonnoscodina is rich in archaeological heritage. Routes often pass by significant Nuragic complexes and ancient burial sites like the Tomb of the Giants Sa Domu e S'Orku or the Giants' Tomb of Su Cuaddu 'e Nixias.
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Sardinia, with milder temperatures and less intense sun compared to the summer months. This allows for comfortable exploration of the region's open landscapes.
Given that most routes are rated moderate to difficult and involve significant elevation changes, the region is best suited for families with older children or teenagers who are experienced cyclists. There are no easy routes specifically designed for young children or beginners.
While specific regulations can vary, many rural and open-country routes in Sardinia are generally accessible for dogs, especially if kept on a leash. However, always be mindful of agricultural areas, livestock, and local wildlife. It's advisable to carry enough water for your dog, especially on longer rides.
The komoot community rates the touring cycling in Gonnacodina/Gonnoscodina highly, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique combination of ancient archaeological sites, the distinctive basaltic plateaus, and the serene, rolling agricultural landscapes that define the region.
Yes, the routes often traverse rolling hills and elevated plateaus, providing panoramic views of the surrounding Sardinian countryside. The View of Sardara – Mogoro loop from Biddanoa de Forru/Villanovaforru, for instance, is named for its scenic vistas.
While the routes often pass through rural areas, many villages and towns along the way, such as Mogoro, offer opportunities for refreshments. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer stretches between settlements.


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