Tour of Salento

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN LECCE: WELCOME TO THE HEART OF BAROQUE PUGLIA
Your cycling holiday begins in Lecce, the cultural capital of Salento, known as the “Florence of the South.” Explore its stunning Baroque architecture, historic squares, and vibrant streets.
Highlights:
Piazza Duomo – Cathedral, Bishop’s Palace, and Seminary
Piazza Sant’Oronzo – Roman amphitheatre and lively town center
Enjoy an aperitivo in a local café before settling in for your overnight stay in Lecce.
DAY 2 – LECCE TO GALLIPOLI: ROLLING THROUGH OLIVE GROVES
Distance: 62 km | Elevation gain: +220 m
Start your ride across the scenic Salento countryside, passing through rolling olive groves and peaceful country roads.
Stop in Galatina:
Mother Church (Chiesa Madre)
Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, with 15th-century frescoes
Continue south through Galatone to the coastal town of Gallipoli, a picturesque seaside gem with a historic old town on a small island.
Evening: Stroll along charming alleys and enjoy seafood dinner.
DAY 3 – GALLIPOLI TO SANTA MARIA DI LEUCA: WHERE TWO SEAS MEET
Distance: 62 km (shorter option: 52 km) | Elevation gain: +230 m
Cycle south along the Ionian coastline, with turquoise waters and stunning seaside views.
Coastal & Inland Stops:
Torre San Giovanni – peaceful seaside village
Ugento – town rich in archaeological heritage
Specchia – one of Italy’s “Most Beautiful Villages”
Arrive at Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Ionian and Adriatic Seas meet, featuring dramatic cliffs and a historic lighthouse. Overnight in Leuca.
DAY 4 – SANTA MARIA DI LEUCA TO OTRANTO: ADRIATIC COASTLINE RIDE
Distance: varies | Coastal route with scenic views
Cycle north along Salento’s Adriatic coast, passing dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.
Highlights:
Tricase Porto – colorful harbor with cafés
Castro Marina – cliffside village with sea caves
Arrive in Otranto, a historic town with:
Otranto Cathedral – famous mosaic floor
Seaside promenade and artisan shops
Enjoy an evening seafood dinner before your overnight stay.
DAY 5 – OTRANTO TO LECCE: COASTLINE, CULTURE, AND POETRY
Distance: varies | Coastal and inland ride
Start the day exploring Otranto’s history.
Stops along the route:
Alimini Lakes – serene coastal stretch
Torre dell’Orso – famous Grotta della Poesia, natural rock pool
Acaya – fortified village with Renaissance castle
Return to Lecce for an evening stroll and overnight stay.
DAY 6 – FAREWELL PUGLIA
After breakfast, your services conclude. Take home the memories of cycling through Salento and southern Puglia.
Local tip: Pick up pasticciotti leccesi, custard-filled pastries, as a sweet souvenir.
Thank you for joining us — we look forward to welcoming you on your next Italian cycling adventure!