Secret Sardinia Unlock Sardinia s unique beauty with Alessandro Carboni Acclaimed photographer Alessandro Carboni leads our photo tour across Italy s mesmerizing Sardinia, an island of sharp colors and edges, endless skies, wind-carved rocks that plunge into the sea, and wild, unspoiled beauty. Lying in the heart of the Mediterranean, Sardinia offers photographers an extraordinary richness of landscapes and ideal shooting conditions. Here we ll find clear skies and wide horizons cleaned frequently by the mistral, along with the contrasting colors of Mediterranean flora, a mild climate, and low population density. As you explore the wonderful beaches, ancient megalithic towers, and deep valleys carved between massive limestone formations, Alessandro s will help you capture the surrounding beauty and improve your photographic vision and techniques. ITINERARY OUTLINE Trip Essence / Page 2 Daily Itinerary / Page 3-7 Photography Guide / Page 8 Arrival & Departure / Page 9 Terms & Conditions / Page 10 Reserve Your Space! / Page 11 TRIP CONTACT Lauren Hefferon 617-640-4837 Lauren@ciclismoclassico.com Travel Vision 1-800-866-7314 info@ciclismoclassico.com www.ciclismoclassico.com 1
TRIP ESSENCE Beaches and rugged cliffs around Capo Teulada The ancient ruins of the Phoenician, Punic and Roman city of Nora Su Nuraxi UNESCO Heritage site The Murales in Orgosolo The Supramonte di Oliena and Lanaitto valley The medieval town of Bosa and river Temo valley Capo Marrargiu protected area and its Griffon Vultures colony The ancient ramparts on the sea of Alghero Capo Caccia cliffs and Porto Conte Natural Park WHAT S INCLUDED All accommodations All breakfasts, 7 dinners, at least 2 lunches All shooting sessions TRIP DETAILS 2017 Trip Dates TBD Check website for departure dates Ability Level Beginner Trip Price $4,695 Single Supplement: $750 EQUIPMENT For Hikes Shorts and warm weather clothing Sweater and long pants for chilly nights walks Good and solid trekking shoes For Photography Body SLR or compact digital camera Wide-angle lens Laptop (for selecting images) Tripod One boat ride Full van assistance Shuttle to the beginning and at the end of the tour Services of at least two local and professional tour guides throughout the program Travel Vision 1-800-866-7314 info@ciclismoclassico.com www.ciclismoclassico.com 2
DAY 1 PULA Hotel - Nora Club Location: Pula Duration: 2 Nights www.noraclubhotel.it 12 pm - arrival 1 pm - lunch 2 pm - trip briefing Welcome to Sardinia! We meet at Cagliari Airport and we take a 30-40 shuttle to the hotel, nestled in a garden close to the town center and the beach of Nora. Pula is a pleasant village between the sea and the Sulcis mountain range. The area has a long agricultural tradition (Pula tomatos are very known) and in the last twenty years has established itself as one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Sardinia, thanks to the wealth of beaches, vast forests and interesting archaeological sites. In the afternoon we do a briefing on the trip and the places we are going to visit, and shooting techniques that will be detailed in the following days. Nora Club is a small, elegant 4-star hotel. It is surrounded by lush, welltended gardens with a large swimming pool, Jacuzzi and pergolas where guests can relax under the Sardinian sun. DAY 2 PULA, CAPO SPARTIVENTO AND NORA Hotel - See Day 1 6 am - breakfast 7 am - departure by van 7:30 am - shooting in Capo Testa 1 pm - lunch in Pula 3 pm - relax at the hotel 5:30 pm - shooting in Nora 8 pm - dinner After breakfast we reach by van the long beach of Giudeu, from where we continue walking along the path from Cala Cipolla back on the promontory of Capo Teulada, overlooking the coast in a wonderful succession of cliffs, coves of white sand and waters that give all shades from blue to emerald. The headland is dominated by an imposing lighthouse which now houses an exclusive retreat. The scenarios are lovely and give the perception to dominate the sea, with the Europe behind and the coast of Africa just over the horizon in front of us, just 180km away. In the late afternoon, to enjoy the sunset we reach the ancient settlement of Nora, as often used by the ancient Phoenician, the city was built on an isthmus of land beautifully surrounded by the sea. The city became Carthaginian and then dominated by the Romans, until the occupation by the Vandals, around the middle of the fifth century BC, which marked the abandonment. Besides the historical and cultural heritage of the visit, the site has an ideal location to be photographed, along with the beautiful setting made up of beaches, lagoons, small islands and ancient Spanish towers. Travel Vision 1-800-866-7314 info@ciclismoclassico.com www.ciclismoclassico.com 3
DAY 3 MARMILLA E BARBAGIA, SU NURAXI DI BARMINI AND ORGOSOLO Hotel - Hotel Su Gologone Location: Oliena Duration: 3 Nights www.sugologone.it/en/ 7 am - breakfast 8 am - departure by van 9 am - visit Su Nuraxi of Barumini and shooting in Marmilla 11 am - departure to Orgosolo 1 pm - lunch at Orgosolo 3 pm - shooting Orgosolo and landscapes of Supramonte 6 pm - arrival at the Hotel 8 pm - dinner DAY 4 OLIENA, LA VALLE DI LANAITTO E IL SUPRAMONTE Hotel - See Day 3 6:30 am - breakfast 7:30 am - meeting with local guides and departure by jeep 8 am - trekking and shooting in Supramonte 12 pm - lunch in sheepfold in Supramonte 3:30 pm - return to the hotel 5:30 pm - session on techniques of editing with Photoshop 8 pm - dinner on own in Oliena Today we move from the far south to the heart of the island, where the appealing charm of a culture proudly rooted in its ancient traditions joins a kind of wild beauty and original. We start early in the morning, our first stop in the hills of Marmilla allows us to enjoy the majesty of Su Nuraxi di Barumini, which is a fine example of the over 7000 Nuraghe in Sardinia, evidence of a fascinating civilization that since 1500 BC used clever architectural techniques unique and among the most advanced at that time. Just left the Marmilla await us woods and mountains of Barbagia. Here we stop to visit Orgosolo, one of the landmarks of the area, characterized by the typical Murales, topic predominantly political and social, through which, for about 50 years, are recounted events and personalities that have made history on the island. Even a short way between the mountains and among the typical profiles of Supramonte leads us to the village of Oliena, where we are staying in one of the most well known hotels in Sardinia. The 4-star Hotel Su Gologone lies in the heart of Sardinia. This place encapsulates the very essence of Sardinian culture: untainted nature, ancient customs, time-honoured cuisine and great hospitality. Enjoy their luxurious swimming pool and spa. Just behind our hotel stands wild and imposing a mountain of white limestone called Supramonte, which comes to almost 1500 meters a.s.l. in Punta Corrasi. The Supramontes are wonderful natural ramparts that extend over an area of 350kmq, formed by the erosive action of the typical karst phenomenon. The area is therefore characterized by the wealth of caves, gorges and chasms, and his proverbial inaccessibility that has made it one of the wildest and most fascinating of the entire Mediterranean basin. Well, today we re going to explore and capture with our cameras some of the most evocative landscapes of the Supramonte. Accompanied by expert local guides we will learn to move lightly between these woods and rocks seemingly inhospitable. For lunch we will be guests of some shepherd friends who courageously continue to raise goats and pigs in these mountains. Travel Vision 1-800-866-7314 info@ciclismoclassico.com www.ciclismoclassico.com 4
DAY 5 OLIENA, BOAT EXCURSION ALONG THE GOLFO DI OROSEI Hotel - See Day 3 6:30 am - breakfast 7:30 am - departure by van to the port of Cala Gonone 8 am - boarding the boat in Cala Gonone, cruise and shooting in the Golfo di Orosei 1 pm - lunch on boat 3 pm - return to port 3:30 pm - visit the Aquarium of Cala Gonone 5:30 pm - return to the hotel 8 pm - dinner at Ristorante Su Gologone Observing the island from the sea offers a new and fascinating perspective to photograph Sardinia. Additionally, if the scenario has a coastline of about 50 km, along which you there are not a single building or other sign of human presence, the experience becomes unforgettable. We start in the morning from the port of Cala Gonone and sail towards the south in the beautiful Golfo di Orosei, which is a sanctuary of secluded beaches, pristine reefs and crystal clear water. Cala Luna, Cala Sisine, Cala Mariolu, Le Grotte del Bue Marino, the rocky spire of Goloritzè are just some of the natural wonders that we reserve this boat excursion. We have lunch on board and, once landed, we relax with a short visit to the Acquario di Cala Gonone, that s an original model of aquarium that has the main objective of enhancing the habitat of the Mediterranean Sea and in particular those of Sardinia, in an imaginary continuity between the artificial pools and surrounding natural backdrops. We return then to the hotel for a well deserved rest after a busy day of sea and photography. Travel Vision 1-800-866-7314 info@ciclismoclassico.com www.ciclismoclassico.com 5
DAY 6 BOSA AND ALGHERO, THE VALLE DEL TEMO AND CAPO MARRARGIU Hotel - Hotel El Faro Location: Alghero Duration: 3 Nights http://www.elfarohotel.it/en/ default.html 6:30 am - breakfast 7:30 am - departure by van to Bosa 8:30 am - arrival in Bosa, trekking and shooting from the Castle 12 pm - visit to a small cellar in the historic center of Bosa 1 pm - lunch at Ristorante Borgo Sant Ignazio 3 pm - shooting in the bay of Compultitu and along the Capo Marrargiu 6 pm - arrival at the hotel in Alghero 7 pm - shooting at sunset in the bay of Porto Conte (opposite hotel) 8 pm - dinner at Ristorante Baia delle Ninfee Today we leave the center of Sardinia to reach the north west of the island that features elegant medieval towns on the sea (Alghero, Bosa, Castelsardo). Throughout the area predominates the austere elegance of basalt volcanic, but when it makes room limestone always gives something unique. Thus Bosa has calcareous soils where the vines are grown, which together influence of the mistral lets you produce one of the most famous white wines of Sardinia: Malvasia di Bosa DOC. While in Alghero, the immersion of limestone gives us the beautiful bay of Porto Conte with the spectacular rocky outcrop of Capo Caccia which closes the profile of the coast to the north. In fact, it is the vineyards of Malvasia to greet our arrival Bosa. The view from above allows us to enjoy the Valley of the River Temo in all its beauty: the countryside and the hills covered with olive trees, the old village dominated by the Malaspina s Castle and the river mouth that opens wide to the sea. Bosa is hosting us for the first shoot of the day and for lunch between the cozy streets of the historic center. For the second shooting we stop along the coastal road that leads to Alghero. Here we really are spoiled for choice, because every stretch of coastline deserves a photo shoot. Hotel El Faro is a luxury 4 star resort that combines breath-taking views with exclusive hospitality services. The hotel also has sea water swimming pools, a 700 m2 terrace with spectacular sea views, panoramic restaurant, American-bar, Grill-bar in the pool area, Fitness Room with sea views and Technogym equipment. The new El Faro Thalasso & Spa wellness centre and various sized conference rooms complete the package. Travel Vision 1-800-866-7314 info@ciclismoclassico.com www.ciclismoclassico.com 6
DAY 7 ALGHERO, PARCO DI PORTO CONTE AND CAPO CACCIA Hotel - See Day 6 6:30 am - breakfast 7:30 am - short lift by van to Capo Caccia 8:10 am - trekking and shooting on Capo Caccia and Porto Conte Park 11 am - optional escorted tour of Via Ferrata del Cabirol 1 pm - pic nic lunch on the beautiful cliffs of Capo Caccia 3 pm - return to hotel 5:30 pm - session techniques of editing with photoshop 8 pm - dinner at Baia delle Ninfe The area that we visit today is one of the best-known natural areas of Sardinia. The fact that this place is so well known it is no coincidence, because here you combine the wonderful views of the sea and on the coast, environmental integrity, the extraordinary caves, the wildlife richness and accessibility. On the same territory there are both a Marine Protected Area and a Natural Park. The strategic location meant that this area is populated for a very long time, there are numerous sites that testify to the constant presence of man since ancient Neolithic to the present day: Palmavera, the remains of Roman villas, towers along the coast of the Spanish era, penitentiary facilities of the early twentieth century and, finally, the hotel facilities at the end of the twentieth century. The area has a rich natural heritage of flora characterized by a number of endemic species and plants typical of the Mediterranean, the endless prairies of Posidonia oceanic (Neptune Grass), a place of refuge essential for the reproduction of coastal marine fauna, 35 species of mammals and more than 150 birds, including which latter are of particular importance seabirds that nest in the cliffs (major and minor puffins, storm bird, seagull course, shag), and rare specimens of peregrine falcons, bonelli s eagle and griffin. The area is also home to an oasis of wildlife species with Giara horses, deer and donkeys. For those who really want to enjoy a very special point of view, we will have the opportunity to travel a spectacular via ferrata along the cliff overlooking the sea. So, as you can see, there will be opportunities for photographs only add to our already rich game bag. DAY 8 ARRIVEDERCI! After breakfast around 9 am we shuttle you to Alghero airport. Or, why not extend your stay in Sardinia? Travel Vision 1-800-866-7314 info@ciclismoclassico.com www.ciclismoclassico.com 7
MEET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY GUIDE Alessandro was born in Sardinia in 1971, the land where he grew up and still lives; he took its first steps in the dark room in the early 90s, but, thanks to the advent of digital camera, he began to focus his attention on the landscape in 2009. Graduate in economics he has embarked on a career as a tax expert, but always with an eye to the nature of his wild and fascinating island. Currently he continues the profession of fiscal expert but also he is professional photographer that organizes photography courses in collaboration with the major European experts in the field. He escapes most urbanized areas in search for uncontaminated places. Through the sensitivity of his pure images he managed to capture or even unveil the beauty of the territory he chooses to the observer and discoverer every time. Today more than ever, our planet is in danger: Alessandro with his pictures aims at raising public awareness on this subject. He firmly believes that care and preservation of the environment that surrounds us start precisely from the appreciation of its beauty and with the ability to look at landscapes with different eyes. Actually his most important projects are Discovery Sardinia : the story of a team of four international photographers that want to resume Sardinia in images and video, telling the landscapes, the seasons and the lights of this exceptional island. In the last few years Alessandro has received awards such as Commended Image in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year in the category Earth Environments, and the first prize in the competition organized by Autonomous Region of Sardinia Visions of the Coast. Travel Vision 1-800-866-7314 info@ciclismoclassico.com www.ciclismoclassico.com 8
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE GETTING TO PULA Fly to Rome Da Vinci (FCO) or Milano Malpensa (MXP) and arrange a one-way regional Flight to Cagliari Elmas (CAG) to meet out 11 am group shuttle* to Pula on day 1 * Please inform the office if you plan on taking this scheduled group shuttle at least one month in advance via this form: www.ciclismoclassico.com/travel-plans DEPARTING FROM ALGHERO After breakfast around 9 am we provide one group Shuttle to Alghero- Fertilia (AHO) where you can connect to Rome (FCO) and Milan Malpensa (MXP). OTHER INFORMATION For Flight Reservations Valerie Wilson Travel Call: 1-855-780-2022 or E-mail: ciclismoair@vwti.com Travel Insurance MH Ross Call: 1-800-423-3632 http://bit.ly/mhross_insurance Transportation Rome2rio http://www.rome2rio.com Travel Vision 1-800-866-7314 info@ciclismoclassico.com www.ciclismoclassico.com 9
INSURANCE, TERMS & CONDITIONS Insurance Ciclismo Classico will not assume responsibility or liability for any loss or damage of personal effects or for any injury or loss during the duration of the tour. Therefore, we highly recommend that you obtain travel insurance. Information on travel insurance will be sent to you via email once trip deposit is received. We recommend MH Ross, but travelers may choose the insurance carrier of their choice. Cancellations and Refunds All requests for refunds must be submitted in writing as soon as possible to Ciclismo Classico. Exceptions to their cancellation policy cannot be made for any reason, including weather or personal emergencies. There is no refund for unexpectedly leaving a trip early or arriving late. The purchase of short-term travel insurance policy is strongly recommended. Cancellation fees are determined as followed: Days before departure Cancellation fee 121+ days - 50% of the deposit* 91-120 days - 100% of the deposit* 61-90 days - 30% of the trip price 31-60 days - 60% of the trip price 31-44 days - 100% of the trip price *You may transfer your trip deposit to another departure in the same tour season up to 90 days before your original departure with payment of a $100 per person transfer fee. Prices quoted are subject to adjustment without prior notification. OR your deposit (currently $600) may be carried forward to the following year as a credit toward the final balance of a tour. At the time of booking, we will ask for another $600 deposit to secure your spot. Carried-forward credits expire at the end of the year to which they are applied. Alterations to the tour itinerary Sometimes modifications may be made to the itinerary. We will notify you of any changes that may affect your arrival, departure or lodging. Any changes to the program are made in the best interest and safety of the group. To review our policies, please visit http://www.ciclismoclassico.com/plan-your-trip/policies/ RESERVE YOUR SPACE! To reserve a space, call Ciclismo Classico at 800-866-7314 or Lauren Hefferon at 617-640-4837. Or, mail your deposit and contact information to: Ciclismo Classico attn: Rosa 30 Marathon St Arlington, MA 02474 At the time of registration, a deposit of $600 per person is due, payable by Visa, MasterCard, American Express or check, made payable to Ciclismo Classico, along with your full name, mailing address, phone number(s) and email address. We cannot confirm reservations without a deposit. Final payment is due 90 days before departure payable by check, credit card, wire transfer or money order. All travelers must review and sign a terms and conditions statement and a waiver form. Travel Vision 1-800-866-7314 info@ciclismoclassico.com www.ciclismoclassico.com 10