Puglia by bike from the trulli to the sea – quiet version

After transfer from the airport, stroll leisurely in Alberobello, the capital of the famous Trulli. These houses with roofs of dry stone mounted in a cone shape give a picturesque charm to the city, a World Heritage Site by Unesco. The hills of the city are lined with these roofs, from top of which you can catch lovely views on the city.

You ride through the fertile valley of Istria, surrounded by wooded hills, vineyards and huge olive groves. On the way, you cross white villages which will remind you of Greece. You will also get the chance to taste the typical white wines of the region, including the one of Locorotondo. You get to Ostuni, the white city, where you can admire the cathedral and many palaces.

You cycle through the countryside to Ceglie Messapica, where you can stop to stroll through the narrow streets of the town center and visit the ducal castle. Your cycling itinerary takes you to the medieval village of Oria, where you can admire a fine example of a castle that once belonged to Frederick II. Your journey ends in Manduria.

Today's stage takes you to the Ionian coast, where small villages dot the landscape. You pedal along superb beaches, where the water is a clear cobalt blue. You'll stop at Porte Cesareo, an ancient fishing village with ancient origins.

You drive along the coast to Gallipoli. A former fishing port surrounded by a fortress, the city combines tradition and modernity, with its remarkably well-preserved historic center and lively nightlife that continues until the early hours of the morning.

You head back towards the center of the Province of Salento along small roads through olive groves. You pass through Corigliano d'Otranto and its pretty castle. Your route then takes you to Maglie, a prosperous medieval town where you can admire the Capece Palace.

Vous continuez sur de petites routes de campagne en passant par Melpignano, siège du festival de pizzica « la notte della taranta » et retrouvez la mer Adriatique à Otranto.

Take the time to visit Otranto early in the day. Start by exploring its Aragonese castle before lingering in the cathedral. The cathedral is notable for its magnificent rose window and the superb mosaic that adorns its floor. Get back on your bike and ride along the coast to Torre Dell'Orso. Torre Dell'Orso is known for its beautiful beach.

Vous rejoignez Lecce par l’arrière-pays où vous serpentez sur de petites routes bordées de murets et d’oliviers. Vous traversez de petites bourgades construites autour de leur château telles Acaya avant d’atteindre Lecce.

You can extend your stay or leave Lecce after breakfast.