Tour of Salento
Self-guided bike tour - 6 Days/ 5 Nights
Cycling in Salento: Discover Puglia’s Southern Beauty on Two Wheels
Cycling through Salento, in the southernmost part of Puglia, Italy, is one of the best ways to explore this stunning region at your own pace. Whether you're on a self-guided tour or a guided cycling holiday, the experience offers a perfect mix of coastal beauty, historic charm, and peaceful countryside.
Why choose a cycling tour in Salento?
Cycling through Salento, in the southernmost part of Puglia, Italy, is one of the best ways to explore this stunning region at your own pace. Whether you're on a self-guided tour or a guided cycling holiday, the experience offers a perfect mix of coastal beauty, historic charm, and peaceful countryside.
Why choose a cycling tour in Salento?
- Ride along scenic coastal roads with panoramic views of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.
- Stop for a swim or a picnic at secluded beaches along the way.
- Pedal through olive groves, vineyards, and quiet country lanes.
- Enjoy fresh air and a sense of total relaxation.
- Lecce – Known as the "Florence of the South", famous for its Baroque architecture, Roman ruins, and lively piazzas.
- Gallipoli – A coastal town with a medieval old town and crystal-clear beaches.
- Otranto – Home to a majestic cathedral with a mosaic floor, an atmospheric historic center, and stunning sea views.
- Santa Maria di Leuca – The southernmost point of Puglia, offering breathtaking cliffs, a historic lighthouse, and peaceful seaside vibes
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Lecce: Welcome to the Heart of Baroque Puglia
Your cycling holiday begins with your individual arrival in Lecce, the cultural capital of Salento and often referred to as the “Florence of the South.” This vibrant city is renowned for its spectacular Baroque architecture, dating back to the 17th century, and offers a perfect first taste of southern Italy’s charm.
Highlights not to miss:
Highlights not to miss:
- Piazza Duomo – one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, surrounded by the Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace, and the Seminary.
- Piazza Sant'Oronzo – home to the impressive Roman amphitheatre, partially excavated and steeped in history.
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Day 2 – From Lecce to Gallipoli: Cycling through the Heart of Salento
Distance: 62 km | Elevation gain: +220 m
Distance: 62 km | Elevation gain: +220 m
This morning begins with bike delivery and orientation to get you ready for your ride across the scenic Salento countryside. Today’s route takes you through rolling olive groves and peaceful country roads, immersing you in the rural charm of southern Puglia.
First stop: Galatina
Take time to explore this elegant town, known for its historic architecture. Don’t miss:
After lunch, continue riding south through Galatone, and make your way to the coastal town of Gallipoli.
Evening in Gallipoli
Arrive in this picturesque seaside gem and enjoy a relaxing stroll through its historic old town, located on a small island and linked to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge. The town is full of whitewashed buildings, charming alleys, and sea views.
Overnight stay in Gallipoli
(See profile)
First stop: Galatina
Take time to explore this elegant town, known for its historic architecture. Don’t miss:
- The Mother Church (Chiesa Madre) in the main square
- The stunning Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, famous for its 15th-century frescoes that rival those of Giotto
After lunch, continue riding south through Galatone, and make your way to the coastal town of Gallipoli.
Evening in Gallipoli
Arrive in this picturesque seaside gem and enjoy a relaxing stroll through its historic old town, located on a small island and linked to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge. The town is full of whitewashed buildings, charming alleys, and sea views.
Overnight stay in Gallipoli
(See profile)
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Day 3 – From Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca: Where Two Seas Meet
Distance: 62 km (shorter option: 52 km) | Elevation gain: +230 m
Distance: 62 km (shorter option: 52 km) | Elevation gain: +230 m
Today’s ride offers one of the most memorable cycling experiences in Salento, combining coastal beauty with historic inland villages.
Optional route: We also offer a shorter option (52 km / +230 m) — ideal if you’d like a more relaxed pace. (See route profile for details.)
Leaving Gallipoli, cycle south along the scenic Ionian coastline, where the turquoise sea is never far from view. Your first coastal stop is Torre San Giovanni, a charming seaside village where the crystal-clear water might tempt you to pause — but adventure calls!
Inland detour:
Turn inland to discover two authentic gems of southern Puglia:
Overnight stay in Santa Maria di Leuca
(See profile).
Optional route: We also offer a shorter option (52 km / +230 m) — ideal if you’d like a more relaxed pace. (See route profile for details.)
Leaving Gallipoli, cycle south along the scenic Ionian coastline, where the turquoise sea is never far from view. Your first coastal stop is Torre San Giovanni, a charming seaside village where the crystal-clear water might tempt you to pause — but adventure calls!
Inland detour:
Turn inland to discover two authentic gems of southern Puglia:
- Ugento – a small town rich in archaeological heritage
- Specchia – officially recognized as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy” (Borghi più belli d’Italia)
Overnight stay in Santa Maria di Leuca
(See profile).
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Day 4 – From Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto: Cycling the Adriatic Coastline
Distance: Varies | Coastal route with scenic views
Distance: Varies | Coastal route with scenic views
Today you’ll ride northward along one of the most spectacular stretches of the Adriatic coastline in Salento, where dramatic cliffs meet the deep blue sea and each curve reveals a postcard-perfect view.
The route takes you through some of the most charming coastal villages in southern Puglia:
Your destination today is Otranto, a historic coastal town rich in beauty and culture. Once you arrive, take time to explore its atmospheric old town, walk along the seaside promenade, or visit the famous Otranto Cathedral with its extraordinary mosaic floor.
Evening tip: Treat yourself to a delicious seafood dinner in one of the local restaurants, and browse the charming artisan shops for handcrafted souvenirs.
Overnight stay in Otranto
(SEE PROFILE)
The route takes you through some of the most charming coastal villages in southern Puglia:
- Tricase Porto – a picturesque harbor with colorful boats and seaside cafés
- Castro Marina – a cliffside gem known for its sea caves and ancient roots
Your destination today is Otranto, a historic coastal town rich in beauty and culture. Once you arrive, take time to explore its atmospheric old town, walk along the seaside promenade, or visit the famous Otranto Cathedral with its extraordinary mosaic floor.
Evening tip: Treat yourself to a delicious seafood dinner in one of the local restaurants, and browse the charming artisan shops for handcrafted souvenirs.
Overnight stay in Otranto
(SEE PROFILE)
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Day 5 – From Otranto to Lecce: Culture, Coastline, and a Touch of Poetry
Distance: Varies | Coastal and inland ride
Distance: Varies | Coastal and inland ride
Begin your day with a bit more time to enjoy Otranto, one of Salento’s most fascinating towns. Don’t miss a visit to the impressive Otranto Cathedral, where history and legend intertwine. Behind the altar, you’ll find the bones of the 813 martyrs, a powerful tribute to the city’s past. Just as striking is the vast medieval mosaic floor, one of the most significant in southern Italy, rivaling even those of Ravenna.
Back on your bike, the route follows the coastline past the Alimini Lakes, a peaceful stretch of natural beauty perfect for a relaxing ride.
Your next stop is Torre dell'Orso, a charming seaside village famous for the Grotta della Poesia – a natural swimming hole carved into the rock and one of the most Instagrammable spots in Puglia. Take a break, dive into the crystal-clear waters, and soak up the moment.
Before reaching Lecce, you’ll pass through Acaya, a small fortified village with a perfectly preserved Renaissance castle. It’s the ideal place to pause for a real Italian espresso or enjoy an aperitivo at sunset in the quiet main square.
Overnight stay in Lecce
(See profile)
Back on your bike, the route follows the coastline past the Alimini Lakes, a peaceful stretch of natural beauty perfect for a relaxing ride.
Your next stop is Torre dell'Orso, a charming seaside village famous for the Grotta della Poesia – a natural swimming hole carved into the rock and one of the most Instagrammable spots in Puglia. Take a break, dive into the crystal-clear waters, and soak up the moment.
Before reaching Lecce, you’ll pass through Acaya, a small fortified village with a perfectly preserved Renaissance castle. It’s the ideal place to pause for a real Italian espresso or enjoy an aperitivo at sunset in the quiet main square.
Overnight stay in Lecce
(See profile)
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Day 6 – Arrivederci Puglia
After breakfast, our services officially end — but the memories of your cycling journey through Salento and southern Puglia will stay with you long after you return home.
Before you go, make sure to pick up a few pasticciotti leccesi, the delicious shortcrust pastries filled with custard, typical of Lecce. They're the perfect sweet souvenir to bring a taste of Puglia with you!
Thank you for riding with us — we hope to see you again soon on your next Italian adventure!
Before you go, make sure to pick up a few pasticciotti leccesi, the delicious shortcrust pastries filled with custard, typical of Lecce. They're the perfect sweet souvenir to bring a taste of Puglia with you!
Thank you for riding with us — we hope to see you again soon on your next Italian adventure!
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Price details
CATEGORY |
Low season |
Mid-season |
High season |
CATEGORY: Economy B&B/HOTEL 3* |
€ 755 |
€ 900 |
€ 1.075 |
CATEGORY: Deluxe HOTEL 4*/5* |
€ 1.075 |
€ 1.375 |
€ 1.675 |
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LOW SEASON
From 08th Jan to 13 April From 22nd April to 31st May From 23rd Sept to 22th Dec MID SEASON
From 01st June to 14th July From 24th Aug to 22nd Sept HIGH SEASON
From 14th to 21th April From 15th July to 23rd Aug From 23rd Dec to 7th Jan |
what is included:
*Reduce Waste! Bring Your Helmet and Refill Your Water Bottle! For a more responsible tourism experience, we encourage you to bring your own helmet and refillable water bottle. If needed, we are happy to provide these items for you. Please inform us in advance if you require them. not included:
supplements:
SINGLE ROOM: + 30 % on the base quote AUGUST SUPPLEMENTS: From 01st Aug to 23rd Aug 2024 Category Economy: € + 175 per pax Category Deluxe: € +340 per pax E-BIKE RENTAL: +110 € per bike ROAD BIKE RENTAL: +50€ per bike |
Bikes available
Specifications:
FRAME: Aluminium
FORK: Suspension fork
BRAKES: Disc brakes
SPEED: 3 x 7-10 speed
WHEELS: 28”
PEDALS: flat (SPD, SPD-SL, LOOK on request)
ACCESSORIES: rear rack
FRAME: Aluminium
FORK: Suspension fork
BRAKES: Disc brakes
SPEED: 3 x 7-10 speed
WHEELS: 28”
PEDALS: flat (SPD, SPD-SL, LOOK on request)
ACCESSORIES: rear rack
Specifications:
FRAME: Aluminium
FORK: Suspension fork
BRAKES: Disc brakes
SPEED: 1 x 8-11 speed
BATTERY: 418-500 W
WHEELS: 27,5” / 28” / 29”
PEDALS: flat (SPD, SPD-SL, LOOK on request)
ACCESSORIES: rear rack, battery charger
FRAME: Aluminium
FORK: Suspension fork
BRAKES: Disc brakes
SPEED: 1 x 8-11 speed
BATTERY: 418-500 W
WHEELS: 27,5” / 28” / 29”
PEDALS: flat (SPD, SPD-SL, LOOK on request)
ACCESSORIES: rear rack, battery charger
Available size: S, S/M, M/L
FRAME RIDE LITE
FORK Road Carbon Comp
DERAILLEUR FRONT Shimano Claris D
DERAILLEUR REAR Shimano Sora GS
SHIFTERS Shimano Claris
BRAKE LEVER attached
BRAKES Road Dual Pivot
CHAINWHEEL FSA Tempo 50-34
BBSET Cartridge Bearing
CHAIN KMC 8s
HUBS OV alloy/ OV cassette
RIM Merida comp 20 pair
FREEWHEEL Sunrise CS-8S 11-32
TIRES Kenda K1018 700 25
HANDLEBAR STEM Merida Comp OS-6
HANDLEBAR Merida Anatomic Road OS
HEADSET Big Conoid semi neck pro
SEAT POST Merida Road Comp SB12 27.2
SADDLE Merida Race 5
PEDAL Lock, SPD, SPD- LS
FRAME RIDE LITE
FORK Road Carbon Comp
DERAILLEUR FRONT Shimano Claris D
DERAILLEUR REAR Shimano Sora GS
SHIFTERS Shimano Claris
BRAKE LEVER attached
BRAKES Road Dual Pivot
CHAINWHEEL FSA Tempo 50-34
BBSET Cartridge Bearing
CHAIN KMC 8s
HUBS OV alloy/ OV cassette
RIM Merida comp 20 pair
FREEWHEEL Sunrise CS-8S 11-32
TIRES Kenda K1018 700 25
HANDLEBAR STEM Merida Comp OS-6
HANDLEBAR Merida Anatomic Road OS
HEADSET Big Conoid semi neck pro
SEAT POST Merida Road Comp SB12 27.2
SADDLE Merida Race 5
PEDAL Lock, SPD, SPD- LS
Specifications:
FRAME: Aluminium
FORK: Carbon fork
BRAKES: Disc brakes
SPEED: 1x11 / 2x9 speed
WHEELS: 28”
PEDALS: NO (flat, SPD, SPD-SL, LOOK on request)
ACCESSORIES: rear rack
FRAME: Aluminium
FORK: Carbon fork
BRAKES: Disc brakes
SPEED: 1x11 / 2x9 speed
WHEELS: 28”
PEDALS: NO (flat, SPD, SPD-SL, LOOK on request)
ACCESSORIES: rear rack
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Apulia Bike Tours
Bike & Hike Srl Via Annibale De Leo, 19 San Vito dei Normanni (BR) 72019 P. Iva: IT 02475020745 Licenza Regionale 06.11.2006 no. 873 Fondo di Garanzia IL SALVAGENTE Pol. n 2022/1-0571 - Garanzia Assicurativa R.C. Unipol Sai Pol. 1/72076/319/189831229 Vertical Divider
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