Cycling in wonderful Apulia
April-July, September-October
5 nights
4 days
950 €
Ride your bike in the marvelous Apulia region
The apulia region of southeastern Italy has a interesting story to tell. The area has been in the hands of the Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and Spaniards for various periods. It has contributed to the flavorful cuisine and the distinctive architecture. This is Italy's best-kept secret. You're going to get a great adventure on your bike.
From Otranto, with several different cultures, to the whitewashed houses along the coast. You will enjoy cycling in an incredibly beautiful landscape along ancient olive groves. The views along the Mediterranean are stunning and the white sandy beaches near Gallipoli are enchanting.
-
Lecce, the most stunning Baroque city in southern Italy
-
Charming and good accommodation throughout the trip.
-
Wonderful landscapes with ancient olive groves, vineyards, and rolling coastlines
-
Authentic towns and villages along the way
-
Friendly people and Apulian culinary specialties
-
Beautiful sandy beaches and turquoise blue seas
-
Upgrade to 4-star accommodation possible for only 90 €
Start: Lecce Goal: Lecce
Day 1: Arrival Lecce in Apulia
Day 2: Cycling from Lecce to Gallipoli (49 km)
Day 3: Cycling from Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca (51 km)
Day 4: Cycling from Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto (51.5 km)
Day 5: Cycling from Otranto to Lecce (52.5 km)
Day 6: Arrivederci Lecce !
Day 1
Arrive at Lecce in Apulia
At the bottom of the heel of the Italian boot hides Lecce. Here you get the Italian experience concentrated in a handy format - sun, culture and dining experiences in a 2,000-year-old city. With its compact historical center, everything is within easy walking distance, even if you easily get lost in the winding alleyways. There are beautiful, old palaces and the famous Leccebaroon on the churches' facades. It features a local kitchen with its own parade dishes. And here you will find good coffee, good ice cream and refreshing wine. Italy in a nutshell simply.
Day 2
Cycling from Lecce to Gallipoli (56 km)
After breakfast it's time for the first lovely bike ride. You cycle on smaller roads surrounded by olive groves. As you pass through the beautiful villages of Copertino and Nardo, take the opportunity to stop and take something to drink while admiring the historic buildings. Then as you continue your cycling to Gallipoli you will find fine beaches where there is time for swimming in the Ionian Sea connecting the Adriatic Sea with the Mediterranean.
Challenge: 4.5 hours, 56 km, 240m ascent
Day 3
From Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca (51 km)
A coastal road takes you to the southernmost point of Puglia, which divides the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. But first, take a dip in the wonderful turquoise blue water and the beautiful white sandy beach at Torre del Pizzo. Then continue south to Santa Maria di Leuca, a magnificent village with stunning beaches and beautiful buildings.
Challenge: 4.5 hours, 51 km, 200 m ascent.
Day 4
From Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto (51.5 km)
Feel the sea breeze as you cycle on the coastal road that meanders along the cliffs towards the sea. Phenomenal views make you feel as if you're part of a bike ride directed by National Geographic. Stop by the spectacular cave, Grotta Zinzulusa, and then on to Otranto, a Greek-Roman port city.
Challenge: 4.5 hours, 51.5km, 520m ascent
Day 5
From Otranto to Lecce (52.5 km)
Today you visit the Alimini lakes that run parallel to the sea. Cycle your way through the countryside of Greek Salento, where traces of the former colonies are still found in the language, kitchen and bright architectural style. The whites shine against the euphoric blue of the sea. You arrive in Lecce, a brilliant city that you may have already explored. If not, it is a fascinating city full of wonderful palaces and which you must not miss.
Challenge: 4.5 hours, 52.5 km, 120 m ascent
Day 6
Arrivederci Lecce !
The trip and our service end after breakfast. We hope you have had a wonderful experience, filled with energy and joy.
Practical information
You can begin your journey on a Sunday, depending on availability, between March and July and between September and November. If you are four people, you can start the journey any day of the week depending on availability free of charge.
The nearest airports are Bari (BRI) and Brindisi (BDS).
Arrival and departure Lecce
From the Brindisi (BDS) or Bari (BRI) airports, you need to make your way to the railway station. There are direct connections between the above cities and Lecce.
5 nights - All accomodations are carefully selected with a view to location, atmosphere, and/or unique facilities. All rooms have a private bathroom.
4 days rent of Hybrid bikes delivered. E-bikes upon request and availability at additional cost
The price includes:
-
5 nights at B&Bs, hotels, and/or agriturismo, shared double room
-
5 breakfast
-
Luggage transport day 2 to 5 and theft insurance.
-
Bike rental and helmet delivery to and from Leece
-
Map holder & small bag front, side bag, repair kit, distance meter and bike lock
-
Detailed information, descriptions, and maps for your trip in english
-
Telephone support 24/7
Not included:
-
Transport to and from the journey
-
Taxi, train, bus, boat if not mentioned in the program
-
Lunch & dinners if not mentioned in the program
-
Insurance
-
Tourist tax
-
Refreshments