FOUR DAYS E-BIKE IMMERSIVE SALENTO TOUR (Self Guided)

The night before the tour begins, accommodation is provided in a 3 or 4 star hotel in Lecce. The following morning, you will meet with our guide, who will do a welcome breefing and hand over the bikes. DAY 1: LECCE – GALLIPOLI (Total Ride 51 km / 31 miles) General Description: Cycle out of Lecce through one of its ancient gates and into the heart of the Salento countryside. Ride quiet backroads surrounded by olive trees, vineyards, and historic masserias. Enjoy a traditional bar stop in the elegant town of Nardò, then reach the Ionian Sea for a swim in crystal-clear waters. Follow the scenic coast (mostly on a bike path) all the way to Gallipoli, the pearl of the Ionian. ⏺︎ KM 27 LECCE - NARDO Take a break in the heart of Nardò at the iconic (and delightfully old-school) Bar Parisi, where you can enjoy a classic Pugliese late breakfast: a creamy Caffè Leccese and a freshly baked pasticciotto. You’ll also have time to wander through the elegant alleys of this beautiful Baroque town (filled with majestic palaces and timeless southern charm). ⏺︎ KM 36 NARDO – SANTA MARIA AL BAGNO Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Santa Maria al Bagno bay — a picturesque coastal gem. Want to linger a bit longer? Grab a gelato, enjoy a cold beer, or sit down for a light seaside meal (the perfect way to soak in the atmosphere). ⏺︎ KM 51 SANTA MARIA AL BAGNO - GALLIPOLI There are several interpretations of the name’s origin, but the most popular comes from ancient Greek, meaning “beautiful city.” The old town is connected to the modern district (where your hotel is located) by a scenic stone bridge. The historic center is a small island surrounded by the sea, filled with churches and elegant Baroque palaces (some even hiding underground olive oil mills beneath their floors). Wander through its narrow alleys lined with souvenir shops, cozy restaurants and charming bars. If you're in the mood for something traditional, try a granita di mandorle (crushed almond ice), and don’t miss the sunset aperitivo. Fun fact: Gallipoli is the only city on your Puglia cycling journey where you’ll see the sun set directly into the sea. The town’s only beach is tucked under the city walls in the old town, facing the Sant’Andrea lighthouse (but don’t worry, more beach time awaits tomorrow). DAY 2: GALLIPOLI – S. M. DI LEUCA (Total ride 50 km / 31 miles) General Description: On Day 2, you will walk along the Litoranea, the scenic coastal road with the Ionian Sea always on your right. In the first stretch, you can enjoy sandy beaches, while the second part of the ride takes you through rocky cliffs and small marinas as you approach the southern tip of the region. During off-season trips, we recommend bringing water and anything you might need for the day directly from Gallipoli, since many villages and marinas can be completely empty. You might still find something open in Marina di Mancaversa, Torre Mozza, or Marina di Pescoluse (Martinucci Café is a great stop for a gelato or snack on the way). ⏺︎ KM 32 - TORRE MOZZA This small seaside hamlet could be an ideal stop for your lunch and the last swim on a sandy beach (after this point, the coastline becomes rocky and more rugged). The tower you’ll see was built by Charles V in the 16th century as a coastal watchtower, used to alert inland villages in case of Saracen invasions. It was later repurposed during World War II and eventually abandoned, which is why it now appears ruined and is known as Torre Mozza — meaning "The Cut-Off Tower. ⏺︎ KM 50 - S.MARIA DI LEUCA This charming village is rich in both historical landmarks and natural beauty. Located between two headlands — Punta Ristola and Punta Meliso — it's worth stopping first at Punta Ristola, the western tip. Here, a large Italian flag marks the southernmost point of the region: De Finibus Terrae. From this spot, you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the village and the marina of Santa Maria di Leuca, and see Punta Meliso with one of Italy’s tallest lighthouses. As you descend the scenic road into the town, look out for the Tower of the “Uomo Morto” (dead man), the waterfront promenade, the local stone-built main church, and a collection of unique 18th-century villas. According to some maps and local tradition, this is where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet — and on certain days, you can actually see the color difference between their two currents. A one-hour boat tour reveals dramatic cliffs and mysterious sea grottos from a whole new perspective. If you prefer a longer cruise, you can swim in waters where inland freshwater springs meet the sea — the contrast in color is truly unforgettable. DAY 3: S. M. DI LEUCA – OTRANTO (Total ride 51 km / 31 miles) General Description: On day 3, you'll ride from Santa Maria di Leuca to the historic town of Otranto. This stage follows the stunning coastal road along the Ionian Sea, revealing a mix of golden beaches and dramatic cliffs. Along the way, you'll pass picturesque villages like Santa Cesarea Terme and Porto Badisco, take refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters, and visit Punta Palascia — the easternmost point of Italy. The day ends in Otranto, a charming town rich in history, Baroque architecture, and a vibrant seaside atmosphere. A perfect mix of nature, culture, and beauty. ⏺︎ KM 18.6 - S.CESAREA TERME Its name comes from the natural underwater sulfur springs (“terme”) that flow beneath the village. Although Santa Cesarea Terme dates back to the 2nd century BC, it remains a hidden gem known mostly by locals and a few Italian travelers who come to enjoy its healing waters and aristocratic charm. As you cycle through this coastal village (which became more popular in the late 19th century), take a moment to admire the unique private villas in Moorish and eclectic architectural styles. Just before reaching the church (at km 36.7), look out for a bar with Hebrew inscriptions on its facade. Once a private villa, it later became a safe house for Jewish refugees after World War II. For lunch, 200 meters after the church on your left, you’ll find Bar Elisir. This casual seaside spot offers great value: fresh seafood pasta, “frittura mista” (crispy fried shrimp, calamari, fish and octopus), calzones, and rustici. ⏺︎ KM 40.5 - PORTO BADISCO This small fishing hamlet offers a perfect final stop for a swim on a quiet sandy beach (after this point, the coastline becomes rocky). There’s a charming historic café, Da Carlo, where locals gather for a traditional aperitif: a cold beer or glass of white wine served with cubes of provola cheese and slices of mortadella. If you’re visiting in the right season, this is the place to try fresh sea urchins (ricci) paired with crisp local white wine — an authentic taste of Salento’s coastal life. ⏺︎ KM 46 - PUNTA PALASCIA This is the easternmost point of Italy — and the closest to Albania. On clear days, you can spot the Epirus Mountains across the Adriatic, tracing the natural border between Albania and Greece. Just below the coastal road where you’re cycling, sits the iconic Punta Palascia lighthouse. In summer and on special occasions, its doors open for visits... and sometimes even for a glass of local wine or a fresh beer with a view. ⏺︎ KM 51.6 - OTRANTO This ancient and fascinating town dates back to the 8th century B.C., shaped by a tapestry of cultures — Messapian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Aragonese. Wander through the old town, explore its majestic castle, visit the Norman cathedral (home to the largest mosaic in Europe), and enjoy a scenic walk along the city walls overlooking the sea. Recognized by UNESCO as a “Site Messenger of Peace”, Otranto is also known as the Gate to the East — a title as poetic as its sunsets. DAY 4: OTRANTO – LECCE (Total Ride 48 km) General Description: On the final day of your adventure, you’ll ride from Otranto to Lecce, passing breathtaking coastal views and ancient landmarks. The route includes pristine beaches like Torre dell'Orso and the picturesque hamlet of Roca Vecchia, perfect for a swim in crystal-clear waters and a local aperitif at Da Carlo café. Along the way, stop at Punta Palascia (the easternmost point of Italy) for panoramic views of the Adriatic and the Epirus Mountains. The journey continues inland, crossing fortified villages like Acaya, where medieval architecture and underground granaries tell stories of centuries past. You’ll end your ride in Lecce, where Baroque facades, lively piazzas, and a celebratory dinner await — the perfect finale to your unforgettable journey across Puglia. (Torre dell'Orso is located at km 18.5) ⏺︎ KM 18.5 – TORRE DELL’ORSO In August, the beach becomes too crowded to access comfortably, but in all other months, it’s a slice of paradise. Picture a white sandy shore and crystalline blue waters inviting you in for a refreshing swim. Recent studies reveal this bay was once the ancient harbor of the city of Roca. Today, you can admire the 16th-century watchtower and the iconic “Two Sisters” faraglioni (tall sea stacks) rising majestically from the water on the opposite side of the bay. For a sweet treat with a view, stop by Dentoni Gelateria, perched on a terrace above the beach — a local favorite for good reason. If you're in the mood for a seaside lunch, there’s also a restaurant facing the tower where you can enjoy fresh seafood and a glass of wine while taking in the panoramic view. On a clear day, the distant outline of the Monti Acroceurani (Epirus Mountains) is visible across the sea, connecting this magical place to the far edge of the Adriatic horizon. ⏺︎ KM 20.5 - ROCA VECCHIA If you stop to visit the Grotta della Poesia, you’ll catch a view of the watchtower standing proudly across the bay. It may take some imagination, but the scattered stones and crumbling walls around you once formed the ancient city of Roca. Dating back to the Bronze Age, Roca’s past is a mix of glory and devastation. Hannibal destroyed the city in 200 B.C., later rebuilt by Messapians and Greeks. In the 14th century, it was fortified once again (only to be abandoned after Saracen attacks and gradually erased by sea and wind). Take time to wander through the ruins and, if you're feeling adventurous, dive into the hidden grottos carved into the white rock. In summer, don’t miss the small local bar perched above the cliff at the entrance of the village. It's a no-frills blue shack where you can grab a simple sandwich and a cold beer — the perfect stop after a swim or walk through history. ⏺︎ KM 37 - ACAYA It’s one of the finest examples of a fortified town from the 16th century. Originally part of the County of Lecce since medieval times, the entire village was redesigned during the reign of Charles V. Take a moment to admire the castle and the main square. On the right-hand side of the street, look down — beneath the glass panels, you’ll see ancient underground grain storage chambers. The bar located above them is often closed during lunchtime (1 to 4 p.m.), especially in the off-season. ⏺︎ KM 48.4 - LECCE The origins of Lecce trace back to 3000 B.C., but it was during Roman times (3rd century B.C.) that the city flourished, gaining a theatre, amphitheatre, forum, and even a harbor (modern-day San Cataldo). One of the first Christians to evangelize the area became its bishop and martyr — Sant’Oronzo, now the patron saint of the city. Today, Lecce is renowned for its unique Baroque style, visible on every corner of its historic center. Stroll through its streets and don’t miss the Duomo, the Basilica of Santa Croce, and Sant’Oronzo Square, where the Roman amphitheatre and the saint’s statue still stand. Take a break at one of the local bars for a traditional “aperitivo” with Salento’s delicacies and a glass of Apulian wine. Wander through charming alleys filled with artisan shops, bookstores, and gourmet spots perfect for souvenirs. Don’t miss the papier-mâché workshops — some offer surprising modern interpretations of this ancient craft. End the day with a memorable dinner in one of the city’s cozy vinerie or traditional trattorie.