Puglia in south eastern Italy encompasses the heel of Italy’s boot and is bordered by the sea on two sides (the Adriatic Sea in the east and the Ionian Sea to the southeast). The region is characterised by endless olive groves, long fields of grain and vineyards. This cycle tour delves into this region of scenic beauty, which is still unspoiled and retains a rich cultural legacy. From Alberobello where you can marvel at the traditional Trulli houses, the route follows both the Ionian and Adriatic coasts and spans the distances between ancient towns. Ending in Lecce, often referred to as the Florence of the south, this is an ideal holiday for those seeking some less-known pockets of Italy with all the historic highlights. Staying in atmospheric hotels, including a typical Trulli in Alberobello (subject to availability), ensures you gain a full appreciation of this special region.
Your tour highlights
- Cycling along the Ionian and Adriatic coasts
- Viewing typical trulli in Alberobello and the surrounding countryside
- Discovering the ancient cities of Gallipoli and Leece
- Enjoying the local delicacies including olive oil, fresh vegetables and wine
- Exploring the Puglia region which is largely unspoiled by tourism
Tour itinerary
Make your way to Alberobello and your accommodation. Alberobello is known for its unique trulli, which were generally constructed as dwellings or storehouses. It is situated upon two hills which were once separated by a riverbed. On the eastern hill is the new town, with modern architectural features, and on the western hill, the trulli are lined up in an urban conglomeration subdivided into two districts: Monti and Aia Piccola. Both districts are World Heritage listed sites. Please note we cannot guarantee you will stay in a trullo this evening (it’s subject to availability). The alternative is a comfortable hotel in walking distance of the main centre. Matera pre-tour extension available on request, supplement applies.
A fabulous cycle through winding country lanes, past trulli, vineyards and olive groves to Ostuni, an architectural jewel. Crossing the last part of Murge, you will pass through the towns of Martina Franca, Locorotondo and Cisternino before arriving at the white city of Ostuni. The most challenging part is between Locorotondo and Cisternino. Elevation +355m/1164ft, -560m/1837ft
Today’s cycle route takes you away from Ostuni and the Murge hills to the Salento plain, characterized by green and red colours: its olive trees and its red soil. Along the way you will have the chance to visit Oria, with its beautiful historical centre and the castle built by emperor Federico II. Today’s destination is the Manduria area, the capital of the Primitivo grapes. Elevation +250m/820ft/-375m/1230ft
From now on you will head towards the seaside, which will accompany your bike tour between ancient coastal towers and fine sand. You will now reach Porto Cesareo, where we suggest stopping for a good fish-based lunch. Rolling south, your destination will be the Greek Kale Polis, today’s Gallipoli, with one of the most beautiful historic centres of Salento. Enjoy a stroll in its streets and the views of the sea that surround it. Gallipoli is an ancient Greek city, a fishing town divided into two parts: the new town and the old town, connected by a 17th century bridge to the mainland. Elevation +350m/1148ft, -425m/1394ft
Today you’ll continue along the coast to Santa Maria di Leuca. It is the easiest day of the tour – on paved roads and mostly flat with some short ups and downs at the end of the stage. Santa Maria di Leuca was named by ancient Greek sailors: they said it was enlightened by the sun and therefore called it “Leukos”, meaning white. Today it is a famous seaside resort and fishing area. There is ample opportunity to swim and relax at the beach in the afternoon. Elevation +/-215m/705ft
Another superb day of cycling as you follow the Adriatic coast northwards. The most challenging stretches are a short climb to leave town and a continuous but regular slope after Santa Cesaria Terme. Following the coast road, you’ll pass by small towns, impressive grottoes, inlets for swimming and small cafes, and soon arrive at Otranto, the most eastern point of Italy. Here you can visit the beautiful Cathedral and the great Aragonese Castle. Elevation +/-615m/2017ft
Today is an easy stage. Leave lovely Otranto to discover the Alimini Lakes nature reserve, the old hunting ground of the Swabians and the Aragonese. With their unique Mediterranean scrub the area is an important habitat for migratory species such as white storks, flamingoes and cranes. Continue to Lecce which, thanks to its Baroque style, has earned the nickname “Florence of the South”. You can appreciate the rich sculpted motifs from the 17th century made with the local stone while exploring its old town, enclosed by what is left of ancient walls. Elevation +220m/721ft, -175m/574ft
The trip concludes after breakfast. Lecce is well connected by train with the airports of Bari and Brindisi, or we can assist with booking extra nights if you’d like to linger.
What you’ll see on the tour
Tour pricing:
from $2,450
To secure your place now:
Phone: 03 364 3400 or 0800 747 737
Email: [email protected]
Tour Inclusions:
- 7 breakfasts – varied buffet breakfasts are served in each hotel
- 7 nights accommodation in 3 star hotels & B&Bs and a typical trullo in Alberobello (subject to availability) on a twin share basis with private facilities (upgrade to mainly 4 star hotels – supplement applies)
- Digital information pack including route notes, maps and navigational App (can be used offline) with GPS Tracks (smartphone required)
- Luggage transfer – 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
- 27 gear touring bicycle rental with helmet, pannier, lock and water bottle plus handlebar bag and repair kit per room (e-bike available on request – supplement applies)
- Bike insurance against theft and damage
- Emergency Hotline