Salento Biking Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive

Benvenuti! Make your way to your accommodations in Lecce, located in the beautiful old town.

This historic city, first under Messapian and later Roman rule, is a sight to behold. After settling in, perhaps check out the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre and the great collection of Baroque buildings that grace the town.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Lecce
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 Cycle Copertino and the Park of Porto Selvaggio to Gallipoli

This morning following breakfast, a welcome meeting and bike fitting will take place before you set out on the road.

Your first day of cycling begins on beautiful country roads leading you to Copertino. Famous for its wine, the route through Copertino boasts exquisite vineyards and olive groves. Continuing to Nardó, you’ll witness the most beautiful baroque square in all of southern Italy.

Reaching the coast, you’ll enter the “green lung” of this part of the Ionian coast, where you’ll cycle through the Park of Porto Selvaggio. The park boasts captivating scenery, including rugged cliffs, coastal towers and cryptic caves.

Following the coast, you’ll reach the island-like town of Gallipoli. This magical ancient town is perfect for an evening of exploring. The imposing Gallipoli Castle towers above the center of the city, surrounded by the sea. Top off this spectacular first day by enjoying the sunset on the small beach of Purità!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Gallipoli
Distance: 50 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Cycle Punta Ristola and Discover the Devil’s Cave

Departing Gallipoli this morning, you’ll cycle along the road parallel to the coastline until you reach Punta Ristola, the extreme edge of the Salento Peninsula and the heel of Italy.
From the promontory where the Devil’s Cave is, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the harbour, including Leuca and Punta Melisso.
Arriving in tonight’s overnight location of Leuca, you can take a boat trip (not included) to discover the magical caves off the coast, an experience you won’t want to miss!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Leuca
Distance: 50 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 The Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Leuca and Ciolo Canyon

Enjoy another scenic ride today from Leuca to Otranto, taking in the magical horizon of shades of deep blue from both the sea and sky.

Having reached the southernmost point in Salento, enjoy Santa Maria di Leuca, exploring its legendary sanctuary and famous lighthouse.

Proceeding on a scenic stretch of road overlooking the sea, you’ll pedal gentle hills to the Ciolo Canyon—a whimsical landscape home to prehistoric caves and unique species of flora.

The scenery continues as you pass through the Bay of Acquaviva, Castro and Santa Cesarea.

Finally, you’ll reach Otranto, the easternmost city in all of Italy. Spend your evening exploring this pleasant coastal paradise, observing its ancient architectural connection points that once lead to the great Byzantium (Istanbul today). A visit to the Norman Cathedral of Otranto is also a must!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Otranto
Distance: 55 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Cycle Le Cesine and Acaya

Another beautiful stretch of coast characterizes your final day of cycling in Sorento. Pedalling scenic roads, you’ll reach The Cesine Nature Reserve. This protected oasis is home to extensive wetlands, dunes, beaches, and lovely woods.

Before riding your final stretch to return to Lecce, you’ll cross the magnificent Renaissance fortified town of Acaya.

Your cycling journey may have come to an end, but there’s still time to enjoy one last evening in Lecce, soaking up the sights and sounds of this picturesque seaside haven.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Lecce
Distance: 55 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Depart

After breakfast this morning, check out of your accommodations before departing to the airport saying “addio!” to beautiful Salento.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast