A motorcycle trip from Bastia to the foothills of Etna, an unforgettable tour made by three adventure-loving motorcycle friends. Of course we are bringing this post back to our Ferryfinder Blog because ferries are the means of choice for our endurist friends, to transport their motorcycles from one island to another.
This is an exciting tale that can be a source of inspiration for an unconventional trip among some of the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean.
The “Three Islands Raid” between motorcycles and ferries
Such an adventure can easily be included among those experiences to be had at least once in a lifetime: three islands, almost 1,200 kilometers in four days, all strictly by motorcycle.
The Three Islands Raid was not just a simple ride from Corsica to the slopes of Mount Etna, but an exciting journey through endless curves, extraordinary landscapes and a strong sense of adventure.
The traveling companions of this “Three Islands Raid” were the legendary Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin and the ferries-the ideal means of transporting one’s motorcycle between the routes connecting Corsica, Sardinia and Sicily.
Departure from Livorno en route to Corsica
The trip began in Livorno, with an operational meeting together with the guys from True Adventure Offroad Academy, who took care of every detail of the route.
After a night’s rest, the participants met again at dawn to mount the saddle headed to the port of Livorno to embark towards Bastia..
After four hours of navigation, it was time to tackle the roads of Corsica,on a beautiful sunny morning that made the departure even more impressive.
Once we took the D81 highway, Corsica showed its routes, with gripping curves and breathtaking views such as the Patrimonio vineyards and forests that accompany up to the Col di Vergio, one of the highest passes on the island. After traveling along the D84 and skirting the slopes of Mount Cinto, the group arrived in Ajaccio, ending a day of 219 kilometers between asphalt and enchanting landscapes.
By ferry from Corsica to Sardinia
The next day saw participants set off from Ajaccio at the crack of dawn, heading for Bonifacio.
After about 50 kilometers and a short sail from Bonifacio, the group disembarked in Santa Teresa di Gallura, in Sardinia.
From there, the journey continued to Fonni, passing through Tempio Pausania and Monti, through winding roads and pristine scenery.
Arrival in Fonni, on the slopes of Gennargentu, marked the end of the second day, with 236 kilometers traveled, 40 of which were off-road.
The Sardinian village, famous for its murals, offered a well-deserved break, enriched by the flavors of local tradition.
By motorcycle on the ferry route Cagliari – Palermo
The journey continued south, passing through the towns of Gadoni, Seulo and Sadali, through tight turns and dirt stretches that tested the participants’ endurance. Arriving in Cagliari, the group embarked for Palermo, facing an eight-hour overnight crossing.
Upon arrival, at first light, a brief stop in Bagheria offered a typical Sicilian breakfast to recover energy before the final leg.
The last day saw the group cross the Madonie Park and retrace the historic roads of the Targa Florio, until they reached Etna Park.
The Mareneve highway, with the volcano on one side and the sea on the other, provided a spectacular backdrop to end the adventure.
With 340 kilometers covered, 20 of which were on dirt roads, the raid ended in Catania, giving participants indelible emotions and memories.
A motorcycle and ferry trip idea suitable for September vacations
The motorcycle trip among the Mediterranean islands was a unique and unforgettable experience.
An intense adventure, the kind that sticks in the memory and that, surely, deserves a special place among the things to do at least once in a lifetime.
In this case, ferries prove to be an ideal means. Extensive route coverage and frequent departures between Corsica, Sardinia and Sicily make this trip “easy” beyond enduro fatigue, certainly suitable for two-wheelers. We think this is an excellent travel idea, suitable, for spring periods or the last remnants of summer when the days are still long and sunny and the rains not too frequent.
- Are you planning to take a motorcycle trip and would like to board ferries? Also read our article on how to board your motorcycle on ferries while avoiding damage.
