Cycle Puglia

Make your way to Alberobello and your accommodation. Alberobello is known for its unique trulli, which were generally constructed as dwellings or storehouses. It is situated upon two hills which were once separated by a riverbed. On the eastern hill is the new town, with modern architectural features, and on the western hill, the trulli are lined up in an urban conglomeration subdivided into two districts: Monti and Aia Piccola. Both districts are World Heritage listed sites. Please note we cannot guarantee you will stay in a trullo this evening (it's subject to availability). The alternative is a comfortable hotel within walking distance of the main centre. Matera pre-tour extension available on request, supplement applies.

A fabulous cycle through winding country lanes, past trulli, vineyards and olive groves to Ostuni, an architectural jewel. Crossing the last part of Murge, you will pass through the towns of Martina Franca, Locorotondo and Cisternino before arriving at the white city of Ostuni. The most challenging part is between Locorotondo and Cisternino. Elevation +355m/1164ft, -560m/1837ft

Today's cycle route takes you away from Ostuni and the Murge hills to the Salento plain, characterized by green and red colours: its olive trees and its red soil. Along the way you will have the chance to visit Oria, with its beautiful historical centre and the castle built by emperor Federico II. Today’s destination is the Manduria area, the capital of the Primitivo grapes. Elevation +270m/886ft, -400m/1312ft

From now on you will head towards the seaside, which will accompany your bike tour between ancient coastal towers and fine sand. You will now reach Porto Cesareo, where we suggest stopping for a good fish-based lunch. Rolling south, your destination will be the Greek Kale Polis, today’s Gallipoli, with one of the most beautiful historic centres of Salento. Enjoy a stroll in its streets and the views of the sea that surround it. Gallipoli is an ancient Greek city, a fishing town divided into two parts: the new town and the old town, connected by a 17th century bridge to the mainland. Elevation +350m/1148ft, -425m/1394ft

Today you'll continue along the coast to Santa Maria di Leuca. It is the easiest day of the tour - on paved roads and mostly flat with some short ups and downs at the end of the stage. Santa Maria di Leuca was named by ancient Greek sailors: they said it was enlightened by the sun and therefore called it "Leukos", meaning white. Today it is a famous seaside resort and fishing area. There is ample opportunity to swim and relax at the beach in the afternoon. Elevation +/-215m/705ft

Another superb day of cycling as you follow the Adriatic coast northwards. The most challenging stretches are a short climb to leave town and a continuous but regular slope after Santa Cesaria Terme. Following the coast road, you'll pass by small towns, impressive grottoes, inlets for swimming and small cafes, and soon arrive at Otranto, the most eastern point of Italy. Here you can visit the beautiful Cathedral and the great Aragonese Castle. Elevation +/-615m/2017ft

Today is an easy stage. Leave lovely Otranto to discover the Alimini Lakes nature reserve, the old hunting ground of the Swabians and the Aragonese. With their unique Mediterranean scrub the area is an important habitat for migratory species such as white storks, flamingoes and cranes. Continue to Lecce which, thanks to its Baroque style, has earned the nickname "Florence of the South". You can appreciate the rich sculpted motifs from the 17th century made with the local stone while exploring its old town, enclosed by what is left of ancient walls. Elevation +220m/721ft, -175m/574ft