NEW! Puglia Salento Cycling Tour

Alberobello loop - 18 miles - warm-up ride

Our tour starts with a shuttle from the Bari airport to Alberobello. Once there we'll have an overview of the tour and introductions over lunch. Next, we’ll take care of bike fitting before our first ride through a fantasy land of trulli via tiny roads that roll through lush farmland. 

Before dinner, we will gather for a walking tour of Alberobello with a local guide. The origins of trulli architecture used to be debated. Now we have a fairly good idea of the why and the how of trulli and you’ll find out, too. 

A few words about our “hotel” which is as unique as the town itself. The rooms (your own trullo apartments) are scattered throughout the Rione Monti quarter in what is called an albergo diffuso (scattered hotel). This authentic approach is less intrusive than a conventional hotel structure and allows you to bask in the genuine charm of a trullo, an experience that no star-rated hotel can replicate.

For dinner, Chef Domenico will present a selection of traditional dishes. Domenico was the first one in town to serve what was local and in season, rediscovering ancient - almost lost - ingredients and recipes.

Welcome to Puglia!  

Alberobello - Ostuni - 26 miles - Rolling

We continue our tour with a delightful ride, allowing you to explore the charming Valle d'Itria, amidst a backdrop of ancient olive groves and enduring dry-stone walls. 

You will have a first stop and the chance to join the locals for a stroll in charming Locorotondo. This whitewashed gem is one of our favorite southern Italian towns and lends its name to a delightful white wine, a blend of local grape varieties. As you pedal through the scenic landscape, you'll pass by numerous vineyards punctuated by clusters of trulli, adding to the region's rustic charm.

Soon, the whitewashed town of Ostuni will come into sight. Enjoy this view before descending to La Terra - the oldest and most unique part of town sitting atop a hill. Ostuni is famously known as the "città bianca," the white city. Its centro storico (historic center) goes all around the core of the city, and the cathedral stands at the highest point. Enjoy some free time after lunch. Your guides can suggest the best gelateria for you to try a delicious gelato.

Transfer to the Salento area in the afternoon.

Gallipoli loop - 28 miles - Flat

Today's ride starts with a relaxing coastal section along the Ionian Sea. We pass through several fishing villages that have evolved into vibrant seaside resorts. Santa Caterina is the perfect stop for our morning cappuccino, but for those seeking adventure, a visit to the pristine Natural Reserve of Porto Selvaggio offers an opportunity to experience the blend of maritime pine and sea salt scents.

Strategically spaced 16th-century watchtowers come into view as we continue until our clockwise loop veers inland towards the lively old town of Nardò, where we regroup at the splendid Piazza Salandra. For centuries, Nardò was a central city of the Byzantine Empire, until 1497 when the Acquaviva Family acquired it. During their rule, it became the main cultural hotspot of Salento. Here, you can admire significant architectural examples of Barocco Leccese (Lecce Baroque) style.

Returning to Gallipoli, you'll have plenty of time to explore. Old Gallipoli sits on a tiny limestone island connected to the mainland by a nearly 500-year-old bridge. Echoes of Magna Grecia resonate in the blue sea and white houses.

Tonight’s dinner is a seafood feast at our founders’ favorite local restaurant.

Gallipoli - Santa Maria di Leuca - 37 miles - Flat

As we pedal away from Gallipoli, the sparkling blue waters of the Ionian Sea accompany us, once again offering a serene and captivating backdrop.

Our first stop is the quaint fishing village of Torre San Giovanni, where we can pause for a refreshing drink and enjoy the local ambiance. This area is known for its long stretches of sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a quick dip to cool off.

Continuing our journey, we cycle through the coastal town of Torre Vado. Here, we recommend a stop at the beautiful Marina di Torre Vado, where you can take in the stunning views of the coastline and perhaps sample the local gelato at Martinucci’s.

 Riding farther south, as we approach our final destination, Santa Maria di Leuca, the landscape becomes even more dramatic, with towering cliffs giving way to the meeting point of the Ionian and Adriatic seas. Known as the "end of the land," this enchanting town is famed for its iconic lighthouse and the Basilica Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae.

Upon arrival, we can explore the charming streets of Santa Maria di Leuca, take in the panoramic views from the lighthouse, and…pose for a Tourissimo group picture.