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Highlights

Ride in the southernmost part of the heel of Italy. The tour is designed to allow you to discover the architectural beauty of Lecce and Salento: Gallipoli, Otranto and its wonderful beaches. Salento is completely flat. Discover the beauty of Puglia in the south of Italy. Rich and green, the region of the Puglia forms a band which goes along the Adriatic and comes to occupy the heel of the boot offering beaches. During this trip, you will have the chance to discover four beautiful cities in this region, taste traditional Italian food, and walk along beautiful paths.

To see

Embark on a cultural journey through southern Italy, beginning in the charming city of Lecce. Explore the Baroque wonders of Galatina, including the Chiesa Madre, and visit the Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria with its exquisite 15th-century frescoes. Continue to Otranto, where the Cathedral's rose window and mosaic interior, along with the Aragonese castle and defensive walls, reveal a captivating blend of history and architectural beauty.

Gastronomy

Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa, Puccia, Frisella, Burrata, Pasticciotto

Wine

Primitivo, Negroamaro, Fiano, Verdeca

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Tour of Salento, Puglia Tour of Salento, Puglia
Tour of Salento, Puglia Tour of Salento, Puglia
Tour of Salento, Puglia Tour of Salento, Puglia

PROGRAM

J-1

Arrival in Lecce


Arrive at the hotel on your own schedule. Use the time at your disposal for a walk in the beautiful historical center of Lecce, losing yourself among its baroque palaces. Be sure to visit the Lecce Cathedral and its square as well as the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Roman Amphitheater.


Accommodation : Palazzo dei Dondoli**** - Lecce show
Accommodation : Risorgimento Resort***** - Lecce show
Included : Emergency support,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-2

From Lecce to Gallipoli


Leaving Lecce, you cross the beautiful Salento countryside. After about 25km, you'll reach Galantina. Here you can visit the Chiesa Madre, depicted in Baroque style, and the Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria with its 15th-century frescoes. After lunch, perhaps with a typical "rustico Leccese", stay on the country road towards Gallipoli. Take advantage of the evening to stroll through the typical streets of the old town.

Distance : 53km (32mi).

Elevation : 285m.


Accommodation : Al Pescatore Hotel & Restaurant**** - Gallipoli show
Accommodation : Palazzo Del Corso***** - Gallipoli show
Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-3

From Gallipoli to Leuca


After a bike ride through the old town, you'll leave Gallipoli and ride along the magnificent Ionian Sea. Along the Ugento coast, you'll pass through Torre San Giovanni and other picturesque beach towns.

Distance : 52km (32mi).

Elevation : 203m.


Accommodation : Hotel L'Approdo**** - Santa maria di Leuca show
Accommodation : Hotel Montiro**** - Patu - Leuca show
Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-4

From Leuca to Otranto


From the southern part of Puglia you will head north to Otranto with the Adriatic Sea on your right. Passing through Ticase Porto and Castro Marina you will arrive in Otranto. In the evening you will have the chance to walk in the old town of Otranto, the most eastern city of Italy.

Distance : 51km (31mi).

Elevation : 530m.


Accommodation : Relais Valle dell'Idro**** - Otranto show
Accommodation : Hotel Palazzo Papaleo***** - Otranto show
Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-5

From Otranto to Lecce


In the morning you will have a bicycle tour of the town to visit the beautiful Cathedral with its rose window and mosaic interior, and the Aragonese castle and its defensive walls. Coasting along Laghi Alimini, after about 20km you will reach the seaside town of Torre Dell’Orso. Visiting the beach for a swim in the fantastic blue sea is a must! Before your arrival in Lecce you will pass through Acaya, where you may want to stop for an espresso as you take in the view of the castle.

Distance : 54km (33mi).

Dénivelé : 290m.


Accommodation : Palazzo dei Dondoli**** - Lecce show
Accommodation : Risorgimento Resort***** - Lecce show
Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-6

Departure from Lecce


Today is departure day, you can take your time getting started in the morning, have breakfast and depart at your leisure. (Depart on your own).


Included :

CUSTOMIZED
TOUR

This is a catalog tour, it can be modified as you wish : add extra nights, extra activities (wine tastings, visits, transfers...).

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

Arrive to the Bari or Brindisi Airports.
Take a train from the Bari Airport to the Bari Central Station (about 20min) and then a train to Lecce (about 2 hrs). Or take a bus from the Bari Airport to Lecce in about 2h10m.
From the Brindisi Airport you can take the train (from central station to Lecce - about 30m) or a bus from the airport directly to Lecce (about 40min).

Departure from Lecce to Bari or Brindisi Airports.
Take a train from Lecce to the Bari Central Station (about 2 hrs) and then a train to Bari airport (about 20min). Or take a bus from Lecce to Bari airport in about 2h10min.
From Lecce you can take the train (central station of Lecce - about 30min) or a bus to the airport of Brindisi (about 40min)

BIKES


included

Hybrid Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

VELO DE VILLE (or equivalent)

To enable our guests to go on our tours with a peace of mind all our bicycles are equipped with: a cycle-computer, signal lamps, rear pack frame with side bags and an emergency pack (universal tools for small repairs — spare tube). The bicycles we provide come in different sizes so as to satisfy our clients’demands.

Included with your bike rental :

• 1 new bottle

• Helmet

• Odometer

• Lock

• Pump frame

1 Handlebar bag with rain cover containing : Tire levers / 2 Spare tubes / Toolkit

• Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request. If you want to use your bike shoes, you should bring your own pedals + pedal wrench : we will be happy to install them on your bike.

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."




optional

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

VELO DE VILLE (or equivalent)

We have a wide range of e-bike. Most of them have a Bosch engine with 400W and 500W battery. We also have Shimano and Yamaha engine bikes, all equipped with disc brakes, Schwalbe tires and comfortable saddles. Using the right assistance you can ride up to 150 km a day.

Included with your bike rental :

a Big saddle bag & a Handlebar bag containing : Helmet / Lock / pump / Spare tube / Toolkit

• 1 water bottle

• Odometer

• Bike charger

• Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request. If you want to use your bike shoes, you should bring your own pedals : we will be happy to install them on your bike.

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."




optional

Road Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

BH RS1 3.5 DIZ (or equivalent)

With the RS1, BH aims to appeal to a broad spectrum of cyclists. Long-distance, fast-paced enthusiasts who like climbs as much as flat land, asphalt as much as bad roads...

You fight the wind with every pedal stroke. You don't have to fight anymore, you just have to enjoy it. We cyclists are the only ones who know the feeling of performance, power and efficiency you get when physics and equipment become one. Addiction to speed.

Included with your bike rental :

• Helmet

• Odometer

• Pump

• 1 new bottle

• lock

• Spare Tubes / Toolkit / Tire levers

• Map holder

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."




optional

Gravel Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

Gravel BH (or equivalent)

You're looking for a bike with a comfortable geometry that allows you to ride long distances over a variety of terrains. Suitable for different types of ground: gravel, asphalt, earth, paths and wide tracks

Included with your bike rental :

• Helmet / Lock / pump / Spare tube / Toolkit

• 1 water bottle

• Odometer

• Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request. If you want to use your bike shoes, you should bring your own pedals : we will be happy to install them on your bike.

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."

Details

Included


ACCOMODATIONS

- 5 nights of accommodation in hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath

MEALS

- Daily breakfast at each hotel

BIKES

- Hybrid bike rental included

GEAR

- Complimentary Discover France Gear (including water bottle, drawstring bag)
- Guidance Application (phone not provided)

SUPPORT

- Orientation in person with our local guide
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
- Concierge service available to assist you for your requests during your trip (taxi transfer, restaurant, activities...)

TRANSFER

- All luggage transfers

Not included


  • Airfare to and from the trip
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Drinks
  • Hotel city taxes
  • Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own. You will find all information needed with our team support in your roadbook
  • Multirisk travel insurance

Other questions?

See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.

FAQ

Rates

Tour rates vary based on hotel availability and specific start date

PRICE FROM / PER PERSON
STANDARD HOTEL ACCOMODATION
UPGRADED HOTEL ACCOMODATION
Double occupancy *
1340 €
1646 €
Single supplement **
230 €
400 €
Solo traveler ***
1364 €
1670 €

* Please contact us for triple hotel rates. ** Traveling with a group. *** Traveling alone.

Upgrade your bike

From / Per person

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard
240€
Road Bike - Standard
240€
Gravel Bike - Standard
240€

CANCELLATION INSURANCE

Cancellation insurance 6%

STANDARD HOTEL ACCOMODATION FROM

UPGRADED HOTEL ACCOMODATION FROM

Palazzo dei Dondoli**** - Lecce

Palazzo Dei Dondoli is just 200 m from Porta Rudiae and a 5-minute walk from the city center. Featuring a sun terrace and bar, this property also provides free newspapers. With elegant furnishings, rooms and apartments in this b&b include a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Apartments are complete with a kitchenette. Breakfast is served buffet style. It consists of both sweet and savory food. Palazzo Dei Dondoli is a 15-minute walk from Lecce Train Station. The beaches along the Puglia coastline are 9.3 mi away.
http://www.palazzodeidondoli.it/

Risorgimento Resort***** - Lecce

Featuring a roof-top restaurant with panoramic views, the Risorgimento Resort is located in Lecce’s Baroque historic centre. It offers free WiFi throughout, large modern rooms, and a relaxing spa. The attentive staff provide a continental buffet breakfast. The 3 restaurants offer both Salento flavours and classic Italian cooking. Drinks and snacks are available all day at the Janet Ross Bar.
http://www.risorgimentoresort.it/

Al Pescatore Hotel & Restaurant**** - Gallipoli

Al Pescatore**** Hotel & Restaurant, housed in a 17th ancient building, is shining again in its everlasting beauty after a long period of renovation. The building enjoys a strategic position in the historical centre of Gallipoli giving everybody the opportunity to satisfy all kind of requirements and to fully appreciate the so-called “Ionian Pearl”. The Hotel is located along the Riviera Cristoforo Colombo, which is interested in the ZTL ( Limited traffic Zone). That means that You are only allowed for check-in and check out for delivering Your lugguages, than all autos have to be parked in the harbour area which is below the structure and is about 70 meters away.
http://www.alpescatoregallipoli.com/

Palazzo Del Corso***** - Gallipoli

Developed from the renovation of two ancient XIX century buildings, the Hotel reflects the love of luxury and attention to detail. It boasts a panoramic terrace with a hydro massage-pool where you can spend relaxing moments, such as sunbathing, having breakfast or brunch, or enjoying a drink at sunset surrounded by the breathtaking view of the sea and the harbor. A visit to the “DolceVita” Restaurant and to the “Wine Time Salento” wine house, which specializes in wines and local products, is a necessary stop-over for our guests. The attentive hospitality and willingness of all our staff will make your stay in Salento’s famous "Città Bella" unforgettable.
https://www.hotelpalazzodelcorso.it

Hotel L'Approdo**** - Santa maria di Leuca

Approdo Boutique Hotel Leuca is located in sunny Leuca, where the Adriatic and the Ionian seas meet. The hotel is decorated in a characteristic Mediterranean style, and offers panoramic views. The rooms have a balcony. All air-conditioned, the rooms feature an LCD TV, mini-bar, and safe. Their private bathrooms are equipped with shower and hairdryer. The restaurant is popular with many prestigious gourmet guides. It offers tasty fish dishes and Mediterranean cuisine, made with fresh organic produce. It is open from Easter until October.
https://www.hotelapprodo.com/

Hotel Montiro**** - Patu - Leuca

Montirò hotel, your resort in the heart of Salento, nearby the seaside. “When we built up the Montirò Hotel we had a vision: a traveler who flees the chaos of contemporary life and comes back to the origins, to the earth, to nature to seek peace and relax. For this reason, we have decided to give voice to the stone and to theSalento’s countryside!“ With a panoramic view on a flourishing Mediterranean garden, the Montirò Hotel is the only estate in 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 small stone houses that they recall the shape and charm of the ancient “pajare”, the typical Salento buildings that once gave shelter to the farmers.
https://www.montirohotel.com/en/

Relais Valle dell'Idro**** - Otranto

Located only a five-minute walk from the old town of Otranto and from the local beaches, the Relais Valle dell’Idro is an exclusive hotel where you can appreciate design and attention to detail. Its convenient location allows you to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Valle dell’Idro, the old town and the Adriatic Sea.
https://www.otrantohotel.com/four-star-hotel-otranto/

Hotel Palazzo Papaleo***** - Otranto

In the historic center of Otranto, Hotel Palazzo Papaleo is the charming hotel that you've dreamed of for your vacation in Salento, a historic residence near the sea, carefully renovated with splendid rooms with every comfort. With an intimate and welcoming wellness center, Hotel Palazzo Papaleo 5 stars in Otranto is in a perfect position between the ancient basilica and the sea, right in the historic center, and has a teamthat will make your stay in Puglia charming, romantic and unforgettable.
https://www.hotelpalazzopapaleo.com/

Palazzo dei Dondoli**** - Lecce

Palazzo Dei Dondoli is just 200 m from Porta Rudiae and a 5-minute walk from the city center. Featuring a sun terrace and bar, this property also provides free newspapers. With elegant furnishings, rooms and apartments in this b&b include a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Apartments are complete with a kitchenette. Breakfast is served buffet style. It consists of both sweet and savory food. Palazzo Dei Dondoli is a 15-minute walk from Lecce Train Station. The beaches along the Puglia coastline are 9.3 mi away.
http://www.palazzodeidondoli.it/

Risorgimento Resort***** - Lecce

Featuring a roof-top restaurant with panoramic views, the Risorgimento Resort is located in Lecce’s Baroque historic centre. It offers free WiFi throughout, large modern rooms, and a relaxing spa. The attentive staff provide a continental buffet breakfast. The 3 restaurants offer both Salento flavours and classic Italian cooking. Drinks and snacks are available all day at the Janet Ross Bar.
http://www.risorgimentoresort.it/