La Bella Puglia Mini
Discover the charms of Italy’s rustic southern region
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Discover the charms of Italy’s rustic Southern region on this unforgettable bike trip. Named one of the “20 Places to See Now” by National Geographic Traveler, this bike tour takes you through the heart of fascinating Puglia in Italy’s southern region, with its landscapes steeped in Greek, Norman, and Arab history. We begin in Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas converge, and pass through Otranto, a picturesque town with a rich and intriguing history. From there, we pedal to Lecce, the Baroque capital of Salento and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Heading north, we traverse the enological heart of southern Italy to Alberobello, the trulli region, where clusters of conical dwellings are framed by ancient olive trees. Along the way, we indulge in spicy handmade orecchiette, bruschetta with juicy tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and grilled calamari. Warm hospitality and vibrant local culture greet us at every turn.
Tour Essence
- Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Lecce and Alberobello
- Ride along the stunning Salento beaches
- Explore the whitewashed towns of Ostuni and Locorotondo
- Discover captivating clusters of conical trulli structures
- Admire spectacular fields of ancient olive trees
- Enjoy savory cuisine and tastings of local products
- Savor the earthy reds of Salento and elegant Locorotondo whites
What to Expect
Terrain
Gently rollingStart Location
Santa Maria di Leuca, ItalyEnd Location
Alberobello, ItalyMileage
Average Daily: 30 miles Total: 140 milesElevation
Average Daily: 1,400 ft Total: 7,200 ft
Once you have a trip confirmed, we will feed you a steady diet of additional pre-departure information that includes: How to train, prepare, pack and all the wonderful, inspirational and practical things you want and need to know before you go! Our Travel Advisors will be available to help plan your pre- and post-tour travel.
- Van support
- Service of bilingual and professional guides throughout the program
- Guided walking tours of Lecce, Alberobello, and the Zinzulusa cave
- Acaya castle visit
- “Ape” sightseeing tour of Ostuni
- Traditional folk music – Pizzica
- 1 olive oil tasting
- Shuttles from San Cataldo to Lecce and Lecce to Savelletri
- Group shuttles at the beginning and end of the tour
What’s Included
- Use of our exclusive carbon road bike, La Classica Ribelle (or Equivalent Carbon Road Bike)
- Garmin Edge Explore GPS loaded with the GPX tracks of your rides
- Two water bottles
- Saddle bag with repair kit
- Optional: Map holder on handlebar
Pedal Options
- Flat pedals
- Half-toe pedals (without straps)
What’s Not Included
- Helmet
- Optional: clipless/SPD pedals with shoes
- Optional: your own saddle
- All accommodations
- All breakfasts
- 2 lunches
- 5 dinners
The gently undulating route of this bicycle trip is an ideal introduction to the irresistible Puglia region. Destinations on our journey of discovery include the Città Bianca (white city), Ostuni, and the beaches of Savelletri. The circular town of Locorotondo, known for its white wine, and Serra, with its fascinating panorama of the valley of the Itria, are also on our cycling tour’s itinerary. Join us and experience the haunting landscapes, welcoming people and exquisite cycling on this incomparable bicycling adventure.
2025
Start Location
Santa Maria di Leuca, ItalyFly Into
Rome, ItalyEnd Location
Alberobello, ItalyFly Out Of
Rome, ItalySanta Maria di Leuca Warm-Up Ride
Meals Provided
Lunch, DinnerAverage Mileage
15 milesElevation Gain
900 ftRiding Terrain
Gently rollingMeals Provided
Lunch, DinnerAccommodations
Hotel Montirò
With a panoramic view of a flourishing Mediterranean garden, the 4-star Montirò Hotel is the only estate with over 5 hectares of uncontaminated nature to the extreme south of Apulia. A path surrounded by verdant olive trees gives access to a small “village” with stone houses that recall the shape and charm of the ancient “pajare”, the typical Salento buildings that once gave shelter to the farmers. The hotel has cozy and elegant rooms, a swimming pool surrounded by greenery, an exclusive restaurant, and a patisserie school.
Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
35 milesElevation Gain
2,200 ftRiding Terrain
Rolling along the Adriatic SeaMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Relais Valle dell’Idro
A few steps away from the old town of Otranto and the crystal-clear water of the most beautiful local beaches, Relais Valle Dell’Idro, provides breathtaking views of the old town and the sea. The accommodations are elegant and detailed at the same time.
Otranto to Lecce via San Cataldo
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
30 milesElevation Gain
900 ftRiding Terrain
Flat along the Adriatic SeaMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Hotel Risorgimento Resort
The history of the 5-star Risorgimento Resort is closely intertwined with that of the city of Lecce. This residence, dating back to the 18th century, today presents itself as an elegant fusion of past and present in the heart of the city. Its modern facilities blend harmoniously with its historical charm, offering guests an unforgettable stay in an ambiance of unparalleled class and refinement. It features a roof-top restaurant with panoramic views and offers large modern rooms and a relaxing spa.
Lecce to Savelletri
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
25 milesElevation Gain
600 ftRiding Terrain
Flat along the Adriatic SeaMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Bianco Riccio Suite Hotel
The Bianco Riccio 4-star hotel’s large rooms are elegant and refined. It offers a swimming pool with hydromassage, and guests can enjoy breakfast or have an aperitif on the beautiful terrace overlooking the sea.
Savelletri to Alberobello
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
40 milesElevation Gain
2,600 ftRiding Terrain
RollingMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
La Corte Dell’Astore Luxury Resort and Falconry
Peacefully positioned on a hillside but within a short walking distance of downtown Alberobello, La Corte Dell’Astore is a magical combination of past and present to experience in the Trulli. Take a swim in the outdoor swimming pool or relax in the garden.
