4.5
(47)
1,104
riders
30
rides
Road cycling around Tertenia is characterized by a diverse landscape that blends mountainous terrain with a coastline. The region features the Monte Ferru complex, Mount Arbu, and the Tacchi d'Ogliastra limestone towers, providing varied elevation. Cyclists encounter coastal roads along the Marina di Tertenia, interspersed with plains and hills covered in Mediterranean scrub. This combination offers both challenging mountain passes and scenic routes along the sea.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
5.0
(4)
43
riders
68.7km
03:28
1,110m
1,110m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
1.0
(1)
79
riders
94.5km
05:29
2,160m
2,160m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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5.0
(2)
67
riders
31.9km
01:29
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(5)
112
riders
71.3km
03:45
1,300m
1,300m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
28
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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A few steps from the coastal jewels of Gairo Sant'Elena and the Cardedu marina, heading towards the eastern slope of Monte Ferru, the highest coastal peak in Sardinia, you'll find yourself in the midst of a natural spectacle. From the source at Su Accu 'e s'Axina, crystalline waters flow downstream, creating a succession of waterfalls, several meters high, and finally settling in red porphyry pools of varying width and depth. Their name is the Monte Ferru pools, but they are also known as the Coccorrocci natural pools. The scenery is enchanting. The pools appear before you at the end of a tangle of holm oaks, junipers, and oleanders. The pure, clear, and refreshing waters are ideal for a rejuvenating swim, especially during the summer heat: you won't be able to help but feel lulled by the sweet sound of the waterfalls.
2
0
It is located near the beach of the same name, in the Marina di Gairo nature reserve. The magical setting, with the Ogliastra mountains towering over the structure and the unique beaches of Sardinia's eastern coast, will offer you an exclusive holiday immersed in pristine nature.
2
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A panoramic viewpoint next to Cardedu Beach, where you can stop, take some photos, and admire the surrounding sea.
2
0
Built after the 1951 flood, the inhabitants abandoned old Gairo.
4
0
The historic center of the town (which today is called "Gairo Vecchio") was half destroyed by a flood in 1951, and was subsequently completely abandoned, to rebuild new houses a little higher up than the half-destroyed village and on the coast, the latter then forming over the years the town of Cardedu.
2
0
Old Gairo was abandoned after the 1951 flood; its residents rebuilt the village a little further up. It's certainly evocative, being right on the road from Gairo to Jerzu, and seeing it abandoned brings a touch of melancholy to those passing by.
3
0
A beautiful village on the slopes of rocky mountains, it has truly interesting views, half of which are climbing enthusiasts.
3
0
A wine country, nestled between the sea and the mountains, to be revisited in peace, perhaps sipping a nice glass of wine accompanied by the good local food.
2
1
There are over 35 road cycling routes around Tertenia, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 5 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 11 challenging routes, catering to various skill levels.
Road cycling in Tertenia features a highly varied terrain, blending challenging mountainous sections with scenic coastal roads. You'll encounter the dramatic Monte Ferru complex and the impressive Tacchi d'Ogliastra limestone towers, providing significant elevation changes. Coastal routes offer flatter sections along the Marina di Tertenia, interspersed with plains and hills covered in Mediterranean scrub. The routes range from easy coastal loops to difficult mountain ascents, with a majority being moderate.
Yes, Tertenia offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Cardedu Beach – Marina di Gairo loop from Coccorrocci, an easy 12.0-mile (19.3 km) path that features beautiful coastal scenery and passes by beaches such as Marina di Gairo.
For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, Tertenia provides routes with significant climbs and descents. A notable difficult route is From Tertenia to Perdasdefogu via Jerzu — ring tour, a 42.7-mile (68.7 km) journey with over 1,100 meters of elevation gain, offering extensive views as it passes through towns like Jerzu and Perdasdefogu. Another demanding option is the Jerzu – Ulassai loop from Coccorrocci, which covers 73.9 km with over 1,400 meters of ascent.
Road cycling in Tertenia offers breathtaking and diverse scenic views. You'll experience panoramic vistas of the rugged Monte Ferru complex and the unique Tacchi d'Ogliastra limestone towers. Routes along the Marina di Tertenia provide stunning coastal views of beaches like Foxi Manna and S'Abba de Is Marronis, with transparent, iridescent blue waters. Inland, you'll cycle through lush Mediterranean scrub, vineyards, and holm oak forests, with wide views often found near wind farms and on descents from areas like Perdasdefogu.
Yes, Tertenia's routes are rich with natural landmarks. You can discover the refreshing Is Piscinas Pools and Waterfalls in Monte Ferru, offering natural swimming spots. Another unique sight is Sa Perda Stampada Rock Window, a natural rock formation shaped by wind and weather, providing incredible views. The region also features various peaks like Monte Cartucceddu and the Matzeu Cave.
Tertenia and its surroundings are steeped in history. You can explore numerous Nuraghi, ancient Sardinian megalithic edifices from the Bronze Age, such as Nuraghe Aleri and Nuraghe Nastasi. The 16th-century Tower of San Giovanni di Sarrala, overlooking Foxi Murdegu beach, is a significant historical defensive structure. The village also hosts the Albino Manca Museum, dedicated to the acclaimed sculptor, and charming churches like the parish church of the Beata Vergine Assunta.
Tertenia, with its Mediterranean climate, is generally suitable for road cycling for much of the year. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are often considered ideal, offering pleasant temperatures and less crowded routes. Summers can be hot, especially inland, but coastal rides might be more comfortable with sea breezes. Winters are mild, making it possible to cycle, though some mountain passes might be cooler.
Yes, many road cycling routes in Tertenia are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the challenging From Tertenia to Perdasdefogu via Jerzu — ring tour, and the scenic View of Spiaggia di Cardedu – Cardedu Beach loop from Coccorrocci, which offers coastal views.
The road cycling routes around Tertenia are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse terrain, from challenging mountain passes to beautiful coastal roads, and the extensive views. Over 1,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Tertenia's varied landscapes, highlighting its appeal as a cycling destination.
Yes, many road cycling routes in Tertenia pass through or near charming towns and villages where you can find cafes, restaurants, and other amenities. Routes that go through towns like Jerzu and Perdasdefogu, for instance, offer opportunities for refreshment stops. The coastal areas also provide options for breaks with views of the sea.
Tertenia offers options for family-friendly road cycling, particularly on its easier, flatter coastal routes. While some routes involve significant elevation, there are 5 easy routes available that are more suitable for families or those looking for a less strenuous ride. These routes often feature scenic coastal paths away from heavy traffic.


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