Trip Guide

Trip Guide: SUP Yoga and Hike Adventure in Sardinia

Welcome to your SUP, hike and yoga adventure in Sardinia. This guide gets you prepared for paddling crystal-clear waters through dramatic sea caves, hiking ancient trails where vultures circle overhead, scaling cliff faces on Via Ferrata routes that’ll test your nerves, and unwinding with daily yoga in one of Italy’s most striking villages. Seven days of Mediterranean adventure that’ll push you, with everything from adrenaline-pumping cliff climbs to pasta-making with local nonnas.

Women stand-up paddleboarding on calm open water off a coastal shoreline
Women hiking along a rocky trail through lush green hills

Getting There

Getting to Sardinia is straightforward, with multiple airport options. Our transfer runs from Olbia Airport, which we chose as it has the best flight connections from the UK. Alghero Airport is closer to our base in Bosa, however you will need to make your own way via private transfer or public transport.

What flights should I book?

You need to get a domestic flight to Olbia that gets you into the airport in time to meet the transfer.

Suggested Flights

Tuesday – Tuesday

  • Departure: LGW – OLB – 7:20 – 10:50 | EZY2483
  • Return: OLB – LGW 11:40 – 13:05 | EZY8344

Saturday – Saturday

  • Departure: LGW – OLB – 6:20 – 9:50 | EZY8343
  • Return: OLB – LGW – 10:25 – 11:50 | EZY8344
Transfer Times

We include one shared transfer on both the arrival and departure days of your trip. Transfers run on a fixed schedule and can’t be delayed.

Tuesday – Tuesday

  • Pick-up at Olbia Airport at 11:50
  • Drop-off at Olbia Airport at 9:20

Saturday – Saturday

  • Pick-up at Olbia Airport at 10:50
  • Drop-off at Olbia Airport at 8:25

What if I fly into a different airport?

You can fly into Alghero (closest to Bosa) or Cagliari, but you’ll need to arrange your own transport. From Alghero, direct buses run to Bosa for approx. €5 or private transfers cost €80 each way. From Olbia, private transfers are €160 each way for 1–3 people.

Can I arrive on a different date?

If your flight doesn’t match our transfer schedule, you’ll need private transport to Bosa. If you decide to spend time in Olbia first, just make your way back to the airport on the first day of the trip and get our transfer to Bosa.

Please note you can’t join a trip a day after it has begun.

What about flight delays?

We’ll do our best to accommodate delays, but if your flight is significantly late, the transfer may not wait and you’ll need your own transport to Bosa.

Coastal harbour with moored boats and pastel buildings along the waterfront in a European town

Fitness & Skill Level

This trip is rated moderate. You’ll be active 5-6 hours daily with varied activities: gentle river paddling that becomes coastal SUP sessions moving headlong into afternoon winds, moderate hikes on rocky terrain that test your legs, and Via Ferrata routes that demand you push through. There’s also yoga at the beginning or end of the day to stretch out.

You don’t need SUP or yoga experience. Our instructors guide you through everything, adapting to beginners while keeping experienced participants engaged. What you do need is stamina for six days of back-to-back activities and the mental readiness to try new things where you might feel out of your depth.

This trip is for women who want to be active every day. You need to be comfortable with the idea of falling off a paddleboard, pushing through muscle soreness on day three, and taking on a week of varied challenges across water, rock and trail. If this sounds like your idea of a good time, you’ll fit right in.

Activity Breakdown:

    • SUP sessions of 5-9km (3–5 hours) on rivers and the sea
    • Hikes of 3.5-10km on uneven, rocky paths in warmer temperatures than you might be used to
    • Via Ferrata across metal routes attached to the mountain side, up ladders and along suspension bridges

Fitness Requirements

Cardio: Aim for medium-intensity cardio three times weekly such as running, cycling, spin classes – activities that get your heart pumping hard and build endurance. Walking and yoga alone won’t prepare you for the cardiovascular and muscular demands of consecutive active days.

I'm worried about keeping up - what if I struggle?

Our guides adjust the pace to the group, and we’ve designed the distances with beginners in mind. Breaks are also built in, but let’s be clear, you’ll be on the water 3-5 hours daily and tackling some challenging terrain on foot. You need to be comfortable with full, active days outdoors.

What if I'm scared of the Via Ferrata?

Via Ferrata involves ladder sections with visible drops. You’re clipped in, but you will feel the exposure.

You’ll try small sections before committing to the full route, and plenty of guests push through their fear of heights, however it isn’t for everyone and you can opt out. There isn’t a discount for not taking part however.

Do I need paddleboard experience for this trip?

Not at all. Our instructors guide you through everything from scratch, adapting to beginners while keeping experienced paddlers engaged. What you do need is the stamina to be on the water for 3–5 hours daily and the willingness to fall in (repeatedly) without making it a big deal.

I'm an experienced paddleboarder, can I join in?

Absolutely. The sessions run up to 9km of coastal paddling including sea caves, so there’s plenty to get your teeth into. It’s also worth it just for the experience of paddling in such an incredible location.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

You don’t need to be a very strong swimmer, but you do need to be confident in both the sea and rivers, and able to swim 50m.

Woman SUP paddleboarding in clear turquoise water beside rocky cliffs and coves
Women on stand-up paddleboards in a sea cave, Sardinia

Sleep & Eat

Bosa is a medieval town set along River Temo with pastel-coloured houses stacked below an ancient castle. You’ll stay at a three star family-run hotel in the heart of the old town. Rooms are light, spacious, and comfortable with air conditioning, WiFi, and ensuite bathrooms.

Choose between sharing a twin room with another Gutsy Girl or booking a private room (limited availability, so book early if preferred). The hotel provides combined shower gel/shampoo and hair dryers on request.

You’ll eat at a selection of restaurants, learn to make fresh pasta with local nonnas who’ve been perfecting their techniques for decades, then sample Sardinia’s rarest wine – Malvasia di Bosa.

What's the hotel actually like?

The hotel is a comfortable, well-maintained three star standard in a historic building. You’ll have everything needed for a good rest after active days, but you’ll spend minimal time there anyway. After hours of activity, having air conditioning and a comfortable bed is what matters.

Do you supply towels and a hair dryer?

Yes, towels are available in your room, although please bring a lightweight beach towel for your days out on the water. Hair dryers can be requested from the reception at the hotel.

Is there anywhere to do laundry?

For laundry, pack enough clothes for the week or ask reception about local services. If you want to wash kit yourself we recommend packing handwash or a few soap flakes to clean items in the bathroom sink.

Is there WiFi at the hotel?

There’s free WiFi throughout the hotel, though you’ll likely be offline during activities anyway.

Can you handle dietary requirements?

Bosa isn’t a big tourist destination, so there won’t always be a huge selection of vegan options. We can cater for most other dietary requirements, however please get in touch if you’re unsure.

Do I have to do the wine tasting if I don't drink?

We recommend joining the wine tasting evening regardless as you’ll learn about Sardinian culture, geology, and food traditions beyond just the wine. Soft drinks will be available for those who don’t drink alcohol too. We don’t offer discounts for choosing not to drink.

Sunlit narrow street with pastel apartment buildings in Sardinia, Italy
Outdoor terrace dining set under a canopy with orange tablecloths and a countryside view at sunset

Weather

Mediterranean summer weather means warm temperatures with serious sun exposure, particularly in July and August. You’ll be on the water most days where sun reflects off the surface so pack high factor waterproof sunscreen, SPF lip balm, a hat and UV resistant clothes.

Weather in Sardinia is generally stable during our season (June-October), but we’ve found wind impacts the SUP sessions more than rain. Extreme heat might also require activity adjustments. Our guides monitor conditions constantly and adjust plans accordingly.

What to Expect: Bright sunshine, warm temperatures, and generally calm seas. Early and late season might see occasional rain showers, but summer months are typically dry. Sea temperatures are perfect for swimming, but be aware that the Mediterranean weather can switch from cool mornings to scorching afternoons within hours.

How does weather affect activities?

If conditions prohibit paddling, we’ll arrange alternatives like additional hikes, coasteering, or extra yoga workshops and move the SUP sessions to another day. None of our itineraries are set in stone and guides adjust daily plans for safety and the best experience. We always have backup plans ready.

Should I pack for varied conditions?

Bring a rain jacket just in case, especially for early/late season, but definitely make sure to pack your sunblock too. We recommend layers you can add or remove, such as long sleeves for cooler moments and evenings. An accurate weather forecast will be available in your customer portal after booking.

How reliable are local weather forecasts?

Guides use local knowledge and marine forecasts to make daily decisions. Trust their expertise, they know these waters and conditions better than any weather app.

Woman snorkelling underwater above sea grass in clear blue Mediterranean water

Good to Know

Money: Budget euros for extra drinks, ice creams, and personal treats while exploring Bosa. There’s a cashpoint in town for withdrawals if you don’t bring any with you.

Communication: The hotel has reliable WiFi, but you’ll be offline during activities. Phone coverage is good in Bosa but spotty during remote hikes and paddling sessions. Emergency communication goes through your guides and hosts who have local contacts and safety protocols.

Local Life: Bosa moves at Mediterranean pace – shops close for afternoon siesta and evenings come alive with locals enjoying piazzas. Evening dress is casual but many guests enjoy wearing summer dresses or smarter casual wear for dinner. The town is small and friendly, with English spoken in hotels and restaurants.

Do we need to tip?

Tipping is not compulsory on our adventures, but if you’ve had a great trip and brilliant service, a tip for your guide or host is always appreciated. We recommend giving €20-€30, or whatever you can or feel is the right amount.

Is there anywhere to take out cash?

Yes, there’s a cashpoint in town so you don’t need to bring heaps of euros with you. You’ll only need cash for extras such as ice creams, souvenirs or additional drinks and snacks.

When should I buy travel insurance?

As soon as you book, not the week before you fly. Booking early means you’re covered if you need to cancel before departure, not just for issues while you’re away. Your policy should cover travel delays, missed connections, trip cancellation, medical emergencies and evacuation, baggage and equipment loss, and all activities on your itinerary.

How many guests on this trip?

Max 12 guests.

Women rock climbing on a cliff wall, harnesses on a via ferrata route
Women paddleboarding on clear sea near a rocky coast and distant beach under a blue sky

Packing List

What We Provide

    • High-quality RedPaddle Sport boards and paddles
    • PFDs (air belts)
    • Snorkels
    • Dry bags
    • Yoga mats for daily practice
    • All Via Ferrata safety equipment including harnesses and helmets.

What You Need to Bring

Essential Clothing:

    • Swimwear
    • Quick-drying shorts
    • Leggings
    • UV protection t-shirts or rash vests
    • Long-sleeved tops
    • Yoga clothes
    • Hiking boots or trail running shoes with good grip (mandatory)
    • Aqua shoes for rocky water entry/exit (avoid flip-flops, they’ll wash away)
    • Shorty wetsuit/long john wetsuit (optional only for early / late season trips)
    • Lightweight waterproof jacket
    • Quick dry towel
    • Casual evening clothes
    • Casual shoes or sandals for evenings
    • Nightwear

Personal Kit:

    • Daypack (20–30L for day hikes)
    • Water bottles (at least 2L capacity)
    • Cap or wide-brimmed hat
    • Sunglasses with strap
    • Small dry bag for wet swimwear
    • High factor waterproof sunscreen (bring more than one bottle)
    • SPF lip balm (lips burn easily on water)
    • Personal items and medication
    • Insect repellent
    • Travel adaptor

Packing Tips

Fabric Choices: Quick-drying synthetic or merino materials work best in the Mediterranean heat. Avoid cotton which stays damp and chafes.

Sun protection priority: Make sure to pack long sleeve UV protection rash vests for your time on the water, along with plenty of sunscreen, SPF lip balm, a hat/cap and sunglasses. If it’s possible to carry this in your hand luggage instead of any check in, we recommend doing that.

Seasonal considerations: Early season (June) or late season (September/October) might need a light jacket for evenings and optional shorty wetsuit for cooler water temperatures (18–20°C feels genuinely cold initially).

Optional items: Changing robe for convenience, waterproof phone case for SUP photos, rehydration tablets if the weather looks particularly hot (smart for July/August when temperatures hit high) and insect repellent for evening strolls.

Are hiking boots mandatory?

Yes, you won’t be allowed on hikes or Via Ferrata without them. Trail running shoes with good grip are fine too, but flip-flops and casual trainers won’t cut it on rocky, uneven terrain. If you don’t have the right footwear, you won’t be allowed to take part.

What size daypack should I bring?

We recommend a 20-30L backpack to use on the hikes and to take to the via ferrata. It needs to hold your water, snacks, sun protection items, potentially a layer or two and any personal items you want to bring with you.

Can I bring my own paddleboard?

For ease we ask that you don’t bring your own board. We’ll provide you with a high quality RedPaddle Sport board for this adventure.

What should I prioritise in hand luggage?

Sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and any UV kit. If you check-in a bag and it gets delayed, these are the hardest things to replace in a small town like Bosa.

Are running shoes okay for hiking and the Via Ferrata?

No, you must have hiking boots / shoes or trail running trainers with good grip. This is for your safety and comfort.
You will not be allowed to join the Via Ferrata or hikes if you come in trainers.

Women paddle on SUP boards in a sea cave with clear water and rocky cliffs
Women stand-up paddleboarding in clear coastal water near rocky cliffs under a blue sky

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