Puglia. The Heel of the Boot

Duration
9 days
Guided Status
Self-Guided
Difficulty
Leisure
D-Score™
D2 - Intermediate

Overview

This Puglia Cycling tour adventure starts with the crossing of the Murgia plateau. You will also ride in the Itria valley, characterized by the flourishing vegetation in the midst of olive orchards. These vast orchards are cultivated on numerous local farms called Masserie; small, typical stone fortresses. Puglias coasts are marked by long, sandy beaches, dunes and protected natural reserves. In this region you can find trace of the old Messapi civilizations, rock settlements, castles and not-to-be-missed trullos made with dry stone techniques. Sun, Sea and Wind; On the last days of this tour heading south towards the Salento, Nature is the first striking theme as the land stretches in balance between two seas. The Salento cities and inland towns express the unique Lecce Baroque style with Messapi and Salento Grecìa influence, which can still be seen. Its language, songs and kitchen still reflect the culture of Magna Graecia. The typical local music called Pizzica , will introduce you into the local life of the Dolcevita.

Daily Ride Schedule

Day 1: Benvenuti to Matera, Basilicata. Meet & Greet

Benvenuti to Matera, Basilicata. Meet & Greet

Day 2: Matera to Alberobello and Trulli.

69 km 0 m

D1

Matera to Alberobello and Trulli.

Day 3: Alberobello to Ostuni, the white town.

45 km 0 m

D1

Alberobello to Ostuni, the white town.

Day 4: Ostuni to Manduria, Castles & Masserie.

55 km 0 m

D1

Ostuni to Manduria, Castles & Masserie.

Day 5: Manduria to Gallipoli & Ionian Coast.

76 km 0 m

D2

Manduria to Gallipoli & Ionian Coast.

Day 6: Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca, the heel.

52 km 0 m

D1

Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca, the heel.

Day 7: Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto & the Far East.

61 km 0 m

D1

Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto & the Far East.

Day 8: Otranto to Lecce, the Baroque gem.

45 km 0 m

D1

Otranto to Lecce, the Baroque gem.

Day 9: Arrivederci! Good bye!

Arrivederci! Good bye!

Accommodation & Services

Accommodation

Hotel

What's Included

Accommodation arrangements
Bike rental

About the Apulia

Read full regional guide