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Duration
6 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 5 nights in 3-4 star hotels
Meals
  • 6 Breakfasts

Price

$1190USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: UPU

Trip highlights


  • Cycling along the Ionian and Adriatic coasts
  • Staying overnight in atmospheric hotels
  • Discovering the ancient cities of Gallipoli and Leece
  • Enjoying the local delicacies including olive oil, fresh vegetables and wine
  • Exploring the Puglia region which is largely unspoiled by tourism

Puglia in south eastern Italy encompasses the heel of Italy's boot and is bordered by the sea on two sides (the Adriatic Sea in the east and the Ionian Sea to the southeast). The region is characterised by endless olive groves, long fields of grain and vineyards. This cycle tour delves into this region of scenic beauty, which is still unspoiled and retains a rich cultural legacy. This circuit route follows both the Ionian and Adriatic coasts from Lecce, often referred to as the Florence of the south. This is an ideal holiday for those short on time, seeking the less known pockets of Italy with all the coastal highlights of Puglia. Staying in atmospheric hotels ensures you gain a full appreciation of this special region.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Make your own way to Lecce today and check-in to the first hotel. Thanks to its Baroque style, Lecce has earned the nickname of "Florence of the South". Appreciate the rich sculpted motifs from the 17th century made with the tender stone from Lecce. The old town, enclosed by what is left of the ancient walls, bears the impression of that exuberant period.

Meals:  B

The cycle begins by heading deep into the "Salentinian countryside" before approaching the Ionian coast and your destination for today, Gallipoli. An ancient Greek city, it is a fishing town divided into two parts: the new town and the old town, which is connected by a 17th century bridge to the mainland. Elevation +70m/230ft

Meals:  B

Continue cycling further along the coast and you will reach Santa Maria di Leuca. The name was given to this town by ancient Greek sailors who came from the East. They say it was enlightened by the sun and therefore called it "Leukos", meaning white. Today it is a famous seaside resort and fishing area and there is ample opportunity to swim at the beach in the afternoon. Elevation +40m/131ft

Meals:  B

Another superb day of cycling as you follow the Adriatic coast northwards. Passing by small towns, impressive grottoes, inlets for swimming and small cafes, you soon arrive at Otranto, Italy's most eastern point and where you can visit the beautiful Cathedral and the great Aragonese Castle. Elevation +480m/1575ft

Meals:  B

Today's cycle will take you along the Alimini Lakes and their unique Mediterranean bush back to Lecce. Elevation +100m/330ft

Meals:  B

After breakfast the trip concludes. Lecce is well connected by train with the airports of Bari and Brindisi.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 5 breakfasts - varied buffet breakfasts are served in each hotel
  • 5 nights accommodation in 3-4 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Rental touring bike with helmet, pannier, puncture resistant tyres and gel saddle (e-bike available on request, supplement applies)
  • Luggage transfers - 1 bag per person weighing max 20kg
  • Digital information pack including route notes, maps and navigational App (can be used offline) with GPS Tracks and travel guide per room booked (smartphone required)
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to and from Lecce
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Guide - this is a self guided cycling holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi if needed to shorten a stage (tit's not possible to shorten the stages by train)
  • Excess luggage
  • We recommend bringing a handlebar phone holder – to follow the route more easily using the app / GPX files
  • Local hotel taxes - payable locally directly to the hotel (allow eur10-15 pp)
  • Items of a personal nature

Bike information


Grading

moderate  

This trip involves 4 days cycling with daily distances between 50 and 55km/31 and 34mi. The route on some days is flat and on others it is hilly. You will cycle almost always on asphalt/tarmac roads. Traffic is almost non-existent in Puglia, except during the high holiday season. The route includes very beautiful stretches along the coast. The trip requires a reasonable level of fitness to fully participate in this adventure. You need only carry your camera and water bottle. Your luggage is transported for you between hotels. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.


Departure dates

Weekly on Monday from 1 Apr to 22 Jul and 9 Sep to 28 Oct

Notes

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
Note:
Due to logistics this trip is not suitable for solo travellers. It can be possible for single travellers to book on a date which already has bookings. Contact our team for more details.
Note:
High season is from 01 to 22 Jul and 9 to 15 Sep, Mid season is from 15 Apr to 30 Jun and 16 Sep to 27 Oct, supplement applies
Note:
Additional starting dates are available for groups of 6 or more.

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1190USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Electric Bike SupplementUSD$140
  • Single SupplementUSD$280
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

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