Punta della Scomunica, Asinara

Embark on a mountain biking adventure to Punta della Scomunica, Asinara's highest point, where you'll discover a wild and natural landscape. This moderate route spans 35.6 miles (57.2 km) with an elevation gain of 2898 feet (883 metres), typically taking about 4 hours and 33 minutes to complete. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from paved roads and unpaved sections to natural singletrack, passing through dense Mediterranean scrub and rolling pastures. As you climb, the scenery shifts from gentle hills to dramatic cliffs, culminating in an expansive panorama from Punta della Scomunica where the eastern and western seas appear to meet. Keep an eye out for the island's unique white donkeys and wild goats along the way.

Planning your visit requires good fitness and advanced riding skills, as some sections may even require pushing your bike. Due to the very strong sunshine, high temperatures, and limited shade, spring and autumn are the recommended seasons for cycling this route. Water refill points are scarce, available only at Fornelli, Cala Reale, and Cala d'Oliva, so plan to carry enough water for your journey. Summer is strongly discouraged for this ride.

This trail offers more than just a ride; it's an exploration of Asinara National Park, a protected area known for its pristine environments. The island also holds a unique history, having served as a maximum-security prison until the 1990s. You can still see remnants of this past, including former prison facilities, military fortifications, and lighthouses. This blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes the Punta della Scomunica route a truly distinctive experience.