Exploring Italy's Sunny Salento by Bike

Day 1: Lecce

Upon arrival at your first accommodation in Lecce, you will receive a warm welcome that includes a bike fitting and a full briefing of the tour. Once settled, set off on a guided tour to explore the winding streets, where every turn reveals another stunning piece of Baroque architecture. As the sun sets, stroll the illuminated streets, stopping for traditional Apuglian cuisine in one of the lively piazzas. End the night with gelato and a good night’s rest. Your adventure begins tomorrow!

Day 2: Lecce - Avetrana
34 mi. / 55 km

The first part of your journey takes you away from the busy city and into the serene countryside. You'll head west through flat rural areas lined with dry stone walls, olive groves, and vineyards producing delicious red wine. You start in the "Terre del Negroamaro," passing through towns like Novoli, Salice Salentino, Guagnano, and San Pancrazio. After exploring these small towns and perhaps stopping for a winery visit, you'll pedal towards the lower Ionian Murgia known for its Primitivo wine. Your destination is Avetrana, where you'll learn about olive oil beginning with an introduction to how the farm operates, followed by a deep dive into how they produce their olives. You'll learn about different cultivation methods and every step of the process, from growing and harvesting to pressing and bottling. End the visit by tasting some of their 6 different varieties. The day ends at your accommodations, a lovely Masseria tucked in the countryside, where you will enjoy a delicious dinner.

Day 3: Avetrana - Gallipoli
39 mi. / 63 km

A quick cycle out of Avetrana leads to the sea. Veering off the sandy track, you’ll head toward Torre Colimena, a magnificent testament to 16th-century architecture, standing tall and impeccably preserved. Continuing past the residential hub, the route hugs the coastline, leading to Porto Cesareo, a harbor with a lively fish market, and the perfect place to rest with a coffee and gelato. Continuing to Porto Selvaggio, you’ll descend towards the bays of Santa Caterina and Santa Maria al Bagno. Following lunch and a refreshing swim, the final stretch leads to Gallipoli, also known as the "Pearl of the Ionian Sea."

Day 4: Gallipoli - Leuca
32 mi. / 51 km

Today’s easy route follows a scenic path along the Ionian Coast of South Salento. Pedal amidst ancient watchtowers and sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters. Your ultimate destination? Santa Maria di Leuca, also known as 'De Finibus Terrae,' where folklore suggests the Adriatic and Ionian seas converge, though some geographers pinpoint Capo d’Otranto as the precise meeting point. The truth? You'll decide once you reach the southernmost tip of Italy!

Day 5: Leuca Loop
34 mi. / 55 km

Salento is full of wonders to discover! Continue to explore this special area by cycling to ancient castles, wandering through charming villages, and encountering thousand-year-old olive trees scattered across the landscape. Enjoy the rustic beauty of dry stone architecture, crafted skillfully by generations past. Back in Leuca, enjoy a 90-minute boat tour exploring sea caves along the Salento coast. Depending on the wind, you can visit either the eastern side with its green Ionian Sea backdrops and unforgettable sunsets, or the western side featuring the high coves and caves of the Adriatic Sea. Be sure to bring your swimsuit for a refreshing swim in the beautiful sea!

Day 6: Leuca - Otranto
33 mi. / 53 km

Today you'll journey along the Adriatic Coast! Get ready to explore another stunning segment of Puglia's coastline, watching for coastal wonders along the route, such as Il Ciolo, Grotta Zinzulusa, and Porto Badisco. The final destination is Otranto, nicknamed the "pearl of the Mediterranean," a UNESCO cultural heritage site. But before reaching Otranto, prepare for an awe-inspiring spectacle at the very tip of Puglia!

Day 7: Otranto - Lecce
35 mi. / 56 km

Today’s final journey through Salento mixes the beauty of the sea, olive groves, baroque architecture, and charming villages. You’ll start by exploring the Alimini Lakes, hidden gems tucked away from the crowds. Then, you’ll ride through landscapes dotted with ancient olive trees, heading to the stunning "Grotta della Poesia," one of the world's most beautiful natural pools. Next, you’ll visit the archaeological site of Roca Vecchia, showcasing Salento's medieval past. As you travel along the coastline between Torre dell’Orso and Sant’Andrea, you’ll be amazed by the views of the sea and cliffs. Before heading back to Lecce, you’ll stop in Acaya, a historic fortified village that once protected against invaders. Finally, the elegant city of Lecce, known for its Baroque art, will welcome you for one last visit.

Day 8: Lecce

Your tour ends today following breakfast.