La Bella Puglia Mini
Discover the charms of Italy’s rustic southern region
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- A thorough daily itinerary
- Details for exact accommodations
- What to expect
- Travel planning tips
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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.
Rolling through this farmland rich in Greek, Norman, and Arab influences feels like a mystical odyssey through time. We begin our journey in Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet, and pass through Otranto, a picturesque town whose complicated yet intriguing history makes it one of Puglia’s most sought-after places. We then pedal to the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Baroque capital of the Salento area, Lecce. Heading north, we ride through one of the enological gems of the south of Italy to Alberobello, the trulli region, spun by clusters of fantastic conical dwellings surrounded by enormous, gnarled olive trees. Spicy handmade orecchiette, bruschetta covered with juicy tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and grilled calamari satisfy our palates, and warm hospitality and friendly conversation greet us at every turn!
Tour Essence
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Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Lecce and Alberobello
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Exploration of the whitewashed town of Ostuni and the beaches of Salento
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Captivating clusters of conical trulli structures
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Spectacular fields of ancient olive trees
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Savory cuisine and tastings of local products
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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: 28,5 miles Total: 142,5 milesElevation
Average Daily: 1,441 ft Total: 7,206 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
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Service of 2 bilingual and professional guides throughout the program
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Guided walking tours of Alberobello
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Food stroll of Lecce
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Acaya castle visit
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“Ape” sightseeing tour of Ostuni
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1 olive oil tasting
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Traditional folk music – Pizzica
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Shuttles from San Cataldo to Lecce and Lecce to Savelletri
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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
- 1 lunch
- 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
859 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
34 milesElevation Gain
2,204 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
912 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
26 milesElevation Gain
623 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
37,5 milesElevation Gain
2,608 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.
