Discovering Italy by bike - The Tour of Salento
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration6 days
-
LevelIntermediate
-
DestinationEurope / Italy
-
AgeFrom the age of 18
-
CO₂-Emissions56.37 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Explore Salento by bike , a region in southern Italy bathed by two seas, with its authentic villages, remarkable religious sites, and breathtaking coastal panoramas. From the baroque city of Lecce , nicknamed the "Florence of the South," cycle west to the Ionian coast and the port city of Gallipoli , passing through Galatina and its magnificent Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria . Two routes then lead you to Santa Maria di Leuca , in the far south, where the Ionian and Adriatic Seas meet. The Sanctuary of Finibus Terrae , perched on the cliffs, symbolically marks the end of the Italian mainland. Following the Adriatic coast, the route winds between coves and cliffs, passing through the charming ports of Tricase and Castro , before arriving in Otranto , a medieval gem with an oriental flair. This cycling tour combines historical heritage, diverse landscapes and culinary delights for a complete immersion in the heart of Puglia.
The highlights
-
Two seas by bike: the Ionian and the Adriatic, between beaches and cliffs
-
Cities of art: Lecce, Galatina, Otranto and Leuca, jewels of Salento
-
Local flavors: pasticciotti, seafood and traditional cuisine
Photos
Sport
Level
Mountain biking and e-mountain biking
In figures
PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Average duration/day: 5h30
- Average distance/day: 64 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 419 m
- Predominant type of terrain : Road
Management
Program
-
Arrival in Lecce
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Nicknamed "the Florence of the South," Lecce is one of the most fascinating cities in the region thanks to its typical 17th-century Baroque architecture. Don't miss the Piazza Duomo, a true gem of the historic center, as well as the Piazza Sant'Oronzo with its Roman amphitheater.
Night in Lecce.
Day 1 -
Lecce - Gallipoli
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 62 km
- Positive elevation gain 220 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Bicycle delivery and introductory briefing
Today, you'll cycle through the beautiful Salento countryside. Your first stop will be Galatina , a charming town steeped in art. Take time to visit the Chiesa Madre and, above all, the splendid Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, famous for its 15th-century frescoes.
After lunch – why not with a typical rustico leccese – you will resume your journey towards Galatone , before arriving in Gallipoli , your final destination for the day.
Don't miss the opportunity to stroll through the picturesque alleyways of the historic center, bathed in the golden light of evening. Overnight in Gallipoli.
Day 2 -
Gallipoli - Santa Maria di Leuca
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 75 km
- Positive elevation gain 520 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Leaving Gallipoli , you'll cycle along the Ionian coast towards Torre San Giovanni . Here, the crystal-clear waters beckon you for a swim… but it's already time to get back in the saddle!
A short detour inland will take you to Ugento and Specchia , listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of Italy. You will then continue your route through the Salento countryside for another 35 km, until you reach Santa Maria di Leuca , where the Ionian and Adriatic Seas meet.
The southernmost point of Salento, Leuca charms the visitor with its vibrant colours and almost unreal silence.
Night in Santa Maria di Leuca.
Day 3 -
Santa Maria di Leuca - Otranto
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Distance 63 km
- Positive elevation gain 650 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Today , you'll begin your journey north along the stunning Adriatic coast. Along the way, you'll pass through the charming little ports of Tricase Porto and Castro Marina before reaching one of Salento's most captivating towns: Otranto . In the evening, why not enjoy a delicious seafood dinner and stroll through the historic center, taking the time to explore the local shops and perhaps find some souvenirs? Overnight in Otranto.
Day 4 -
Otranto - Lecce
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 56 km
- Positive elevation gain 285 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
In the morning , if you wish, you'll have time to explore Otranto a little more. The city is particularly known for its magnificent cathedral, where the bones of 813 martyrs are displayed in a glass case behind the altar. Less macabre, but just as impressive, the cathedral's other treasure is its extraordinary medieval mosaic floor, which rivals the famous early Christian mosaics of Ravenna in its richness and historical significance. Getting back on your bike, you'll cycle along the Alimini Lakes before reaching the charming seaside village of Torre dell'Orso : don't miss the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Grotta della Poesia (Cave of Poetry) , one of the most enchanting spots on the Adriatic coast. Before arriving in Lecce , a stop is a must in Acaya , a small fortified town perfect for enjoying a true Italian espresso or sipping a drink at sunset, facing its imposing Renaissance castle. Overnight in Lecce.
Day 5 -
Departure day
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast. End of services and goodbye Puglia! But before leaving, stock up on pasticciotti: the traditional shortcrust pastry from Lecce!
Day 6
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
5 nights
Breakfasts
Rental of traditional bicycles or mountain bikes
Helmet, lock and pannier for the bicycle
" Apulia Bike Tours " canvas bag
Repair kit: tires, bicycle pump, tire levers
Luggage transport
The digital travel file on the " Roadbook for Discovery " app
Health insurance and baggage
The telephone helpline
The price does not include
Lunches
Dinners
Airport transfers
Tourist taxes
Anything not mentioned in "What's included"
Options
- Road bike rental : CHF45.74 / unit
- Electric bike rental : CHF100.63 / unit
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Safety kit : helmet, lock, front and rear lights.
- Repair kit : pump, inner tube, tire levers, multitool.
- GPS tracks : digital files and detailed instructions to follow each step independently.
- Digital travel guide : including maps, sightseeing suggestions, restaurants and practical advice.
- Local assistance : in case of technical or logistical needs during the tour.
All equipment is checked before each departure to guarantee quality and safety. Please let us know your preferences when booking.
Equipment to bring
- A suitable bike : a well-maintained road bike, gravel bike or hybrid bike, with gearing adapted to hilly terrain.
- Repair kit : spare inner tubes, pump, tire levers, multitool.
- Lighting : front and rear lights, headlamp for possible evening arrivals.
- Navigation : Bike GPS or smartphone with mount, maps or GPX tracks provided.
- Protection : helmet required, sunscreen, lip balm, first aid kit.
- Supplies : water bottles (minimum 1.5L), energy snacks (dried fruit, bars).
- Luggage : waterproof saddlebags or frame bags for your personal belongings and spare clothing.
We can also offer rental of high-end bicycles and waterproof panniers upon request. Contact us for more information.
Clothing to bring
- Spring/Autumn : lightweight long-sleeved cycling clothing, windbreaker or waterproof jacket, lightweight cycling gloves.
- Summer : breathable swimsuits, shorts, sunglasses, sunscreen, short gloves, a cap or headband under your helmet. Don't forget your swimsuit for swimming.
- All year round : comfortable cycling shoes, saddle bag, water bottle or hydration pack, reflective clothing for added safety.
Appropriate equipment guarantees comfort, performance and enjoyment throughout the journey.