Puglia Coastal Cycle

Make your own way to Lecce 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.

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. The stage is mainly flat as you wind your way on country roads. Elevation +245m/803ft, -290m/951ft

Continue cycling further along the coast and you will reach Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet. 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. This is an easy stage on flat, paved surfaces with some short ups and downs in the final part. Elevation +-215m/705ft

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. This is the most challenging stage. There is a 1km climb out from Santa Maria di Leuca and 3km of continuous and regular slopes after Santa Cesaria Terme. You'll cycle along the coastal SP358, considered one of Italy's most scenic roads. Elevation +-515m/1690ft (total - highest point approx 140m)

Today's stage is easy. Leave the lovely town of Otranto behind and discover the Alimini Lakes nature reserve, the old hunting ground of the Swabians and the Aragonese, on your way back to Lecce. Elevation +220m/721ft/-173m/568ft

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