Discover the Baroque beauty and coastal charms of Salento biking through Lecce, Gallipoli, Otranto, and Beyond!

Salento isn't your average Italian getaway—it's the true hidden gem where Italians go to relax and soak up the sun! With its dazzling Ionian and Adriatic waters, rugged coastlines, and scenic routes, it's a paradise for cyclists and beach lovers alike.

But what truly sets Salento apart is its culture, woven by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and Spanish. You can see it in the unique Baroque architecture, hear it in the traditional folk music and dance, and taste it in the Mediterranean flavors and fresh seafood dishes.

And let's not forget the historic towns! From the enchanting streets of Lecce to the seaside charm of Gallipoli, the medieval wonders of Otranto to the panoramic views of Santa Maria di Leuca, each town is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

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Highlights

• Lecce – the baroque city
• Gallipoli – the beautiful city and jewel of the Ionian sea
• Santa Maria di Leuca – the southernmost point in Italy
• Otranto – coastal beauty in the heart of the Mediterranean
• Acaya – the fortified village
• Guided tour of Lecce
• Olive oil tasting in Avetrana
• Boat tour in Leuca

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Daily program

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.

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Dates

Prices

Included services

• 7 nights accommodations
• 7 x breakfasts
• 1 dinner in Avetrana
• Welcome meeting and bike fitting
• Guided tour of Lecce
• Olive oil tasting in Avetrana
• Boat tour in Leuca
• GPS tracks

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