Totally flat route, with many interesting cultural and naturalistic sights. First, you visit Acaya – a fortified city with a huge castle - and then you plunge down to “Le Cesine” – a WWF protected area, crossing point for many species of migratory birds.
From there, you head to the coast, along the ruins of Roca Vecchia – an ancient Bronze age village – and then ‘Alimini’ Lakes, home to many different animal species. Some more kilometers and you are in Otranto, where narrow streets reveal wonders at every corner: The San Peter church and its Byzantine frescoes, a walk along the ramparts overlooking the sea and finally the cathedral with its paved mosaic – one of the biggest in Europe!
The day will end with a fine dinner reserved in one of the best restaurants in town.Two nights in Otranto.

• Daily distance: 58 km
• Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Accommodation: Masseria Bandino or similar

Today is dedicated to exploring the area around Otranto. Begin your ride along the small river Idro ("water" in Latin), where you'll visit a Byzantine crypt from the 13th century before reaching Casamassela. Here, at the “Le Costantine” foundation, you can see ancient looms still in use today.
Continue to Giurdignano, traversing a Bronze Age megalithic area and getting an up-close look at prehistoric monuments known as "dolmens" and "menhirs." For lunch, enjoy a visit and tasting at one of the region's most distinctive bakeries, where a farming family has revitalized ancient grains into baked goods with a traditional flavor.
Return to Otranto where the afternoon is yours to enjoy. You can explore the town, relax at a nearby beach, or take a horseback ride along the cliffs as the sun sets. Overnight in Otranto.

• Daily distance: 29 km
• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Masseria Bandino or similar

Today, you'll pedal along Salento's most rugged and wild coastline. Highlights include the Punta Palascìa lighthouse, Italy's easternmost point, and a striking lake nestled within a bauxite quarry just outside the city. Perched atop cliffs overlooking the sea, this route offers a panoramic view of the Otranto Strait, and with a bit of luck, you might spot the mountains of Albania and Greece. You also have the option to explore the 'Zinzulusa' cave, descending nearly 200 feet into the depths of the earth.
As you leave the charming harbor of Tricase, our friends at Celacanto in Marina Serra will welcome you with a tasting of local products, all sourced from regional farmers. After crossing the bridge over "Ciolo," a small sea-carved canyon abundant with rare flora, you'll arrive in Santa Maria di Leuca. Here, you can trace the paths of ancient pilgrims with a visit to the sanctuary. Tonight, dinner is included; our friend Federico will be delighted to host you at his restaurant.

• Daily distance: 29 km
• Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel L'approdo or similar

Today, you'll explore Capo di Leuca, the southernmost part of Apulia. This lesser-known region is among the most enchanting in Italy. Within just a few kilometers, you'll encounter charming hamlets, each boasting its unique treasures: a striking defense tower in the center of Salignano, an ancient olive oil mill carved into the rock in Castrignano, and the mysterious "centopietre" (hundred stones) funerary monument in Patú, adorned with Byzantine frescoes.
Journey through Giuliano with its crumbling castle and stop in Barbarano—or Leuca Piccola ('Little Leuca'), a significant pilgrimage site with an extensive underground network. As you cycle through olive groves and past dry stone walls, you'll traverse the rural area known as “Li Fani” and arrive at the coast, dubbed the "Maldives of Salento" for its stunning beauty.
In the afternoon, delve back into the countryside to sample sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and other local delicacies from one of the area’s finest producers, “I Contadini.” Your day concludes in Ugento, where you can either visit an archaeological museum or relax at a seaside resort.

• Daily distance: 47 km
• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Il Giardino Dei Pini or similar

In the morning, you'll head towards the coast for a dip in the sea at the Saint Andrew’s Island and Punta Pizzo Coast Natural Reserve.
Next, you'll explore Gallipoli: a picturesque fishermen's village on an island, celebrated for its radiant light, winding alleys, and bustling fish market.
In the afternoon, Cantina Coppola, one of the region's oldest vineyards, invites you for a wine tasting. As the sun sets, you'll cycle to Santa Caterina, a tranquil village on the edge of the Porto Selvaggio Natural Reserve. Two nights in Gallipoli.

• Daily distance: 45 km
• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Relais Corte Palmieri or similar

Today, you have the option to join a cooking class at Tenuta Donn’Anna in Galatone, where the mother of one of our colleagues will help you prepare traditional dishes (based on availability, additional costs apply).. Arrive by bike, possibly accompanied by a team member. Alternatively, for a longer ride, skip the cooking class and head to Galatina to admire the Church of Santa Caterina, beautifully adorned with Giotto-style frescoes, then explore the historic center and enjoy a tasting of local products at a Bottega where Salvatore, the owner, will warmly welcome you. Overnight in Gallipoli.

• Daily distance: 30 - 45 km
• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Relais Corte Palmieri or similar

On your final day, as you cycle towards Lecce, you'll pass by 19th-century fortified farmhouses and villas that define this part of the territory, and visit Nardó to explore its remarkable baroque-style historical center. Your next stop is in Copertino, where you'll discover the impressive Norman castle and hear tales about Saint Joseph of Copertino, 'the Saint of holy flights.' You'll arrive in Lecce in the late afternoon to drop off the bikes.
Your farewell dinner at one of the best restaurants in town will offer a culinary experience to remember.

• Daily distance: 42 km
• Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Accommodation: B&B Orangerie D'epoque or similar

Your trip ends today after breakfast and check out of your accommodation in Lecce. Arrange your own transfer to the Brindisi airport or continue your travels in Puglia.

• Meals: Breakfast