Cycling in Puglia Salento

Experience the Ultimate Puglia Bike Tour: From Alberobello to the Stunning Beaches of Salento!

Discover the unparalleled beauty of Puglia, a region bordered by the Ionian and Adriatic seas, perfect for a cycling vacation. Puglia offers some of the best bike tours in Southern Italy, with peaceful rides through stunning scenery and opportunities to indulge in simple, tasty cuisine.

An unforgettable Cycling Vacation in Puglia

Puglia, stretching along Italy’s heel, is a cyclist’s paradise. Here, you'll find some of the best riding in Italy, winding through tranquil backroads. The fertile fields and orchards produce the delectable ingredients that form the foundation of traditional Puglian dishes. The region's rich history, influenced by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Normans, adds depth to every ride.

Start Your Adventure in Alberobello

Begin your journey in Alberobello, the heart of the trulli region. Be captivated by clusters of unique conical dwellings surrounded by orchards and olive groves. Warm hospitality and friendly conversations await as we travel from Valle d'Itria to Salento, where the blue sky meets the turquoise sea. Tourissimo's Salento bike tour features miles and miles of breathtaking coastal views.

Discover Salento's Award-Winning Beaches

Salento is famed for its beaches, consistently awarded the Blue Flag for their cleanliness and safety. On this Puglia bike tour, you'll visit these stunning coastal paradises, perfect for a refreshing break.

Our route from Ostuni, the "White City," takes us through rolling hills dotted with ancient olive groves and vineyards. As we cycle south, the landscape shifts, offering spectacular sea views and coastal riding. Cycling in Puglia is a sensory delight, with the scent of wild herbs and fig trees filling the air, and historic masserie (farmhouses) adding to the charm.

Cultural and Historical Highlights of Salento

The journey culminates in Salento, known for its pristine beaches, Baroque architecture, and vibrant local culture. Explore the coastal towns of Gallipoli, Santa Maria di Leuca, and Otranto. Each town reveals the rich history of the Mediterranean, showcasing ancient trading routes and diverse cultural influences. Gallipoli enchants with its historic center and fishing traditions, Santa Maria di Leuca offers breathtaking views where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet, and Otranto captivates with its stunning cathedral and charming old town.

Savor the Flavors of Puglia

Food is a highlight of our Puglia-Salento bike tour. Enjoy spicy handmade orecchiette, bruschetta with juicy tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and simple yet delicious seafood dishes.

Book the Best Puglia Bike Tour Today

Experience the best bike tour in Puglia and Southern Italy. Book your unforgettable cycling vacation and explore the stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine of this enchanting region.

Not sure if you can do it? Contact us to schedule a call about the demands of our Puglia bike tours. E-bikes are available to ensure everyone can enjoy this incredible cycling vacation.

Relevant blog: Elevated Simplicity: The Cuisine of Puglia

Dates:

Ask for custom dates

Prices:

USD 5,400

Private room (single supplement) USD 695

Duration:

7 days (6 nights)

Level:

Recreational

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Fantastic trip with 3 great guides (Beepe, Renato and Dario). The Puglia region was magnificent and so varying between the various towns and places we stayed at.

Brian F. Classic Puglia Bike Tour

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[fa icon="plus"] Day 1

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!

[fa icon="plus"] Day 2

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.

[fa icon="plus"] Day 3

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.

[fa icon="plus"] Day 4

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.

[fa icon="plus"] Day 5

Santa Maria di Leuca - Otranto - 35 miles - Rolling

Today, we head up the Adriatic Sea, where ruins of old fortifications, ancient watchtowers, and unique coastal caves make for a very dramatic ride. Pedaling away from Leuca, a detour to the Sanctuary will end at the southernmost limit, leaving us no choice but to head north. The terrain is gently rolling, and along the way, we can stop at the hidden Acquaviva Bay, located a stone's throw from Castro Marina, the legendary landing place of Aeneas after his desperate escape from Troy (as narrated by the Greek-Roman poet Virgil).

Otranto, the easternmost city of Italy, is a true crossroads of peaceful cultural exchanges and cruel invasions. Here, you can wander around the old town, enjoy the promenade over the water, or head to the beach.

At sunset, a walking tour with a local guide will highlight the connections between this small town, Greece, and the Middle East. Otranto is a Salento gem (we spend two nights there).

[fa icon="plus"] Day 6

Otranto boat ride

We embark on a beautiful boat ride from Otranto for one more unforgettable experience. As you set sail along the captivating coastline, you will have the opportunity to stop for refreshing swims in some of the region's most picturesque spots. On the North Coast, discover the enchanting Mulino d’Acqua with its unique Grotta Sfondata, the serene bay of Remito, and the stunning Baia de’ Turchi in Alimini. Explore the scenic Conca Specchiulla, marvel at the majestic Faraglioni Sant'Andrea, and relax at the iconic Torre dell'Orso. Heading South, dive into the crystal-clear waters of Baia delle Orte and visit Faro Palacia, the easternmost point of Italy. Each stop offers a unique slice of paradise, making for a day of exploration and relaxation in the heart of the Mediterranean.

A celebratory farewell dinner will be the perfect occasion to share memories and toast to an amazing week in Southern Italy. Whether on or off the bikes, Salento charms travelers every time.

[fa icon="plus"] Day 7

Transfer to the airport

This morning after breakfast there will be a private group transfer to the Brindisi Airport. The transfer is about 1 hr. You can also extend your stay and enjoy Puglia for longer to visit Lecce, the "Florence of the South"

Bikes
What's Included
What's Not Included

Bikes (choice road carbon or hybrid)
Two professional tour guides throughout the program
All accommodations in 4-star hotels and one albergo diffuso
All breakfasts, all lunches, and five dinners
Wine with meals, coffee, cappuccino, and gelato stops
Private boat ride
Guided tour of Alberobello and Otranto
Support vehicle during the tour and luggage transfer
Shuttle at the beginning and at the end of the tour
All activities mentioned in the day-by-day description

Airfare
Pre-tour hotel stays and post-tour hotel stays
Personal expenses such as laundry and cell phone
Guide gratuity
Optional tour extension
E-bike upgrade
Lecce post-tour extension

More Info

Food and Wine

Puglia is predominantly an agricultural region, producing around 40% of Italy's olive oil and a large proportion of its wine (more than any other region in Italy).

This essentially agricultural nature influences the region's cuisine. Home cooks and restaurant chefs predominantly use the abundant local produce, such as durum wheat, tomatoes, artichokes, fava beans, fennel, peppers, onions, beef and lamb. In terms of pasta, Puglians pride themselves on their orecchiette, little ear-shaped shells that are still produced by hand on a daily basis by many ladies right in front on their doorsteps. It is usually served with tasty sauces such as meat ragu, broccoli and anchovies, mushrooms or turnip tops. The best pasta is made rigorously from durum wheat flour of the Senatore Cappelli wheat cultivar, one of the local products that Slow Food took under its wing. Puglia's rocky interior is ideal for sheep farming and, in terms of meat, lamb reigns supreme, a trait that Puglia shares with its neighboring region, Basilicata. Feast days are characterized by the fragrance of roasting lamb wafting through the streets and most restaurant menus will feature at least a couple of lamb dishes. Puglia's long coastline and fishing tradition bring large quantities of seafood to the table. Red mullet, octopus, anchovies, gilt-head bream, mussels, sea bass and cuttlefish are featured in many recipes at seafront restaurants. Puglia's comforting country cuisine is a pure expression of popular traditions and the natural bounty of the land.

The most widely grown grape variety is Negroamaro (literally black-bitter). Almost exclusively cultivated in Puglia, Negroamaro is used to produce some of the region’s best wines, including Salice Salentino. The title of most famous grape, however, goes to Primitivo, whose wines are generally high in alcohol content and full in body. White wines count for less than 20% of the overall production but are gradually growing in importance. Local grapes such as Bombino Bianco, Bianco d’Alessano, and Verdeca rub shoulders with international varieties including Chardonnay and Sauvignon to produce some excellent results.