Puglia 11-Day Gentle

Puglia
11-Day Gentle

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Overview

  • Tour DifficultyGentle
  • Tour Duration11 Days / 10 Nights
  • Daily Saddle Time2-4 Hours
  • Daily Elevation346 m (1136 feet)
  • Daily Distance41 km (26 miles)
  • Total Distance371 kms (231 miles)
  • StartAlberobello, Italy
  • FinishLecce, Italy
  • Local AirportsBari or Brindisi
  • Tour SeasonMar 1 - Oct 31
  • Food & DrinkYes
  • History & CultureYes
  • Sun & SeaYes
  • Electric BikeYes
  • Gravel BikingYes
  • Leisure BikingYes

Overview

  • Tour DifficultyGentle
  • Tour Duration11 Days / 10 Nights
  • Daily Saddle Time2-4 Hours
  • Daily Elevation346 m (1136 feet)
  • Daily Distance41 km (26 miles)
  • Total Distance371 kms (231 miles)
  • StartAlberobello, Italy
  • FinishLecce, Italy

Highlights

  • Alberobello: Cycle through Puglia’s iconic trulli country and beautiful whitewashed hill towns.
  • Ostuni: Explore the dazzling “White City,” perched above olive groves with sweeping views towards the Adriatic.
  • Manduria Wine Country: Ride through the home of Primitivo, surrounded by vineyards, masserie and traditional Puglian countryside.
  • Gallipoli: Discover turquoise Ionian waters, protected coastline and Gallipoli’s atmospheric island old town.
  • Santa Maria di Leuca & Otranto Coast: Round the heel of Italy before following one of Puglia’s most dramatic coastal roads.
  • Lecce: Finish among ornate Baroque churches, elegant piazzas and the honey-coloured streets of Salento’s cultural capital.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Alberobello

Welcome to Alberobello, one of Puglia’s most distinctive towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its remarkable trulli, the town is filled with hundreds of whitewashed stone houses topped by conical roofs, creating a landscape found nowhere else in Italy.

Spend the afternoon wandering through the narrow lanes of the Rione Monti and Aia Piccola districts, where traditional homes, small artisan shops and panoramic viewpoints reveal the town’s unique character. As evening approaches, settle into the relaxed pace of southern Italy with a drink or dinner overlooking the rooftops, surrounded by the unmistakable charm of Puglia’s trulli country.

Day 2: Alberobello Loop to Putignano

Distance: 41 km (25 miles) / Elevation Gain: 597 m (1,959 feet) / Saddle Time: 1.5–3.5 hours

Set out from Alberobello into the rolling countryside of the Valle d’Itria, where dry-stone walls, olive groves and scattered trulli line the quiet rural roads. The route undulates steadily through classic Puglian scenery before reaching Putignano, a lively historic town with an attractive old centre and deep local traditions.

After time to explore, continue through the countryside on the return leg to Alberobello. Finish the day back among the town’s distinctive trulli, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy another evening in one of Puglia’s most unique settings.

Day 3: Alberobello - Ostuni

Distance: 33 km (21 miles) / Elevation Gain: 471 m (1,545 feet) / Saddle Time: 1.5–3 hours

Leave Alberobello behind and cycle through the heart of the Valle d’Itria, passing olive groves, dry-stone walls and quiet country lanes dotted with traditional trulli. The route rolls gently through the Puglian countryside before gradually approaching Ostuni.

Known as the “White City,” Ostuni rises dramatically above the surrounding landscape, its maze of whitewashed streets visible from afar. After arriving, take time to explore the historic centre, enjoy the views towards the Adriatic and settle in for the evening among its lively piazzas and atmospheric old-town lanes.

Day 4: Ostuni - Manduria

Distance: 59 km (37 miles) / Elevation Gain: 328 m (1,076 feet) / Saddle Time: 2.5–5 hours

Leave Ostuni and ride south through a changing landscape of olive groves, vineyards and quiet rural roads. The route is generally gentler today, with long rolling sections through the sun-baked countryside of southern Puglia.

As you approach Manduria, vineyards become more prominent, marking your arrival in the heart of Primitivo wine country. Settle into this historic town and, if time allows, enjoy a glass of the region’s famous red wine after a rewarding day in the saddle.

Day 5: Manduria - Porto Cesareo

Distance: 35 km (22 miles) / Elevation Gain: 133 m (436 feet) / Saddle Time: 1.5–3 hours

Leave Manduria and cycle west through open farmland, vineyards and quiet country roads as the landscape gradually flattens towards the Ionian coast.

Your destination is Porto Cesareo, a relaxed seaside town known for its clear turquoise water, sandy beaches and sheltered bay. After the ride, enjoy time by the sea, explore the waterfront or settle in for a fresh seafood dinner overlooking the coast.

Day 6: Porto Cesareo - Gallipoli

Distance: 33 km (21 miles) / Elevation Gain: 248 m (814 feet) / Saddle Time: 1.5–3 hours

Follow the Ionian coast south from Porto Cesareo, with stretches of quiet road, low scrubland and glimpses of clear blue water along the way. The riding is relatively short, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the coastline at an easy pace.

Arrive in Gallipoli, where the historic old town sits on a limestone island linked to the mainland by a bridge. Spend the afternoon exploring its narrow streets, waterfront walls and lively harbour before enjoying the evening by the sea.

Day 7: Gallipoli - Santa Maria di Leuca

Distance: 57 km (35 miles) / Elevation Gain: 290 m (951 feet) / Saddle Time: 2–5 hours

Continue south along the Ionian coast, passing sandy beaches, rocky coves and a string of laid-back seaside towns. The route remains relatively gentle, with the sea rarely far from view as you make your way towards the southern tip of Puglia.

Finish in Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet. Take in the lighthouse, waterfront and dramatic coastal views before settling in for the evening at the very heel of Italy.

Day 8: Santa Maria di Leuca - Santa Cesarea Terme

Distance: 36 km (22 miles) / Elevation Gain: 546 m (1,791 feet) / Saddle Time: 1.5–3 hours

Leave Leuca and turn north along Puglia’s dramatic Adriatic coast, where the road rises and falls above rocky coves, sea caves and striking limestone cliffs. It is a shorter day, but the repeated climbs make it one of the more demanding sections of the tour.

Finish in Santa Cesarea Terme, an elegant seaside spa town perched above the Adriatic. Enjoy the coastal views, distinctive villas and relaxed waterfront atmosphere after a rewarding day of climbing.

Day 9: Santa Cesarea Terme - San Foca

Distance: 41 km (25 miles) / Elevation Gain: 366 m (1,201 feet) / Saddle Time: 1.5–3.5 hours

Continue north along the Adriatic coast, following a scenic mix of quiet roads, rocky shoreline and small seaside communities. The route remains gently undulating, with regular sea views and plenty of opportunities to pause along the way.

Arrive in San Foca, a relaxed coastal town known for its clear water, marina and sandy beaches. After the ride, enjoy an easy evening by the sea before the final journey inland to Lecce.

Day 10: San Foca - Lecce

Distance: 25 km (16 miles) / Elevation Gain: 159 m (522 feet) / Saddle Time: 1–2 hours

Leave the Adriatic coast behind and turn inland through the flat countryside of Salento, following quiet roads between olive groves, small villages and open farmland. It is a short final ride, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the journey into Lecce.

Finish in the historic heart of the city, renowned for its ornate Baroque architecture, elegant piazzas and honey-coloured stone. After completing your tour, spend the afternoon exploring Lecce’s atmospheric old town and celebrating the end of your Puglian cycling adventure.

Day 11: Depart from Lecce

Make the most of your final morning in Lecce with time to enjoy the city at a slower pace. Stop for a traditional pasticciotto, browse local shops and markets, or visit one of the city’s elaborate Baroque landmarks before departure.

Lecce is also known for its papier-mâché craftsmanship, making this a good opportunity to pick up a final souvenir or simply enjoy one last espresso in the sunshine.

When the time comes, check out of your accommodation and continue with your onward travel, bringing your Puglia cycling adventure to a close.

Map

Accommodation

All our accommodation selections are in-house reviewed. We partner with family-owned, charming guesthouses and hotels where you can relax and recharge. Below are some sample accommodations on our Puglia tours. Depending on availability, the accommodation you stay at may vary but will always be of a similar standard.

Alberobello: Tipico Resort

Tipico Resort offers a truly distinctive Alberobello experience, with traditional trulli and stone-built rooms scattered throughout the UNESCO-listed historic centre. Rather than staying in a conventional hotel, guests sleep in beautifully restored historic buildings while still enjoying modern comforts. Its central location means Alberobello’s winding lanes, restaurants, artisan shops and famous trulli districts are all just a short walk away.

Gallipoli: Palazzo Senape De Pace

Palazzo Senape De Pace is a beautifully restored 18th-century noble residence in the heart of Gallipoli’s historic old town. Set among the narrow medieval streets of the island centre, the palazzo combines original Baroque character with comfortable, individually styled rooms and panoramic views across the rooftops and Ionian Sea. Its central location puts Gallipoli’s harbour, beaches, restaurants and historic sights within easy walking distance.

Lecce: Kabala Bed and Breakfast

Kabala Bed and Breakfast is a charming historic residence dating from the 1400s, set in the heart of Lecce’s old Jewish quarter just a few steps from the Basilica di Santa Croce. The property blends original character with modern comfort, with rooms overlooking a peaceful secret garden and Renaissance well. Its central location makes Lecce’s Baroque streets, restaurants, cafés and main sights easy to explore on foot.

FAQ

What Is the cycle like?

This tour is in our Gentle difficulty grading and combines quiet country roads, rural lanes and scenic coastal roads, with some rolling terrain and a few more sustained climbs along the Adriatic coast. Most days are manageable at a relaxed pace, although the route between Santa Maria di Leuca and Santa Cesarea Terme is noticeably hillier.

A choice of electric bikes, gravel bikes and hybrid / step-through touring bikes are available, allowing you to select the style of bike that best suits your riding preferences.

Is this tour for me?

This is a relaxed tour of discovery, designed for riders who want to experience Puglia at an easygoing pace while still covering a varied mix of countryside, coast and historic towns.

With manageable daily distances, gentle terrain and plenty of time to stop along the way, it is well suited to those who value scenery, culture, food and wine as much as the cycling itself. From trulli villages and vineyard country to Ionian beaches, Adriatic cliffs and Baroque Lecce, the journey offers a wonderfully varied introduction to southern Italy.

Tour includes

  • 10 nights accommodation in charming guesthouses and hotels.
  • A hearty breakfast each morning
  • Luggage transfers between accommodations
  • Detailed itinerary, GPX files and printable maps of your route
  • Tips on local attractions, history & evening meals
  • On call support before and during your tour

Tour excludes

  • Flights and transfers to and from the trail heads
  • Lunches & Dinners
  • Insurance
  • Bike rental (Selected on checkout)

    E-Bike Hire
    €XXX
    Premium electric mountain bike including panniers, helmet, lock, repair kit & rental fee.

    Gravel Bike Hire
    €XXX
    Premium gravel bike including panniers, helmet, lock, repair kit & rental fee.

    Bring Your Own Bike
    €XXX

The Bikes

You can bring your own bike or rent one through us when booking. For this Puglia tour, you can choose from electric bikes, gravel bikes, or hybrid / step-through touring bikes, depending on your riding style and comfort preferences. Choosing an electric bike will typically reduce the daily saddle time by around an hour.

We only partner with trusted local bike suppliers, so you can expect well-maintained, premium-brand bikes such as Cube, Trek or KTM.

All rentals include a helmet, panniers, lock and repair kit, with a local network of mechanics available should you experience any mechanical issues while on tour.

E-Bike Hire
€XXX
Premium electric mountain bike including panniers, helmet, lock, repair kit & rental fee.

Gravel Bike Hire
€XXX
Premium gravel bike including panniers, helmet, lock, repair kit & rental fee.

Hybrid / Step-Through Touring Bike Hire
€XXX
Comfortable hybrid or step-through touring bike including panniers, helmet, lock, repair kit & rental fee.

Bring Your Own Bike
€XXX

What Is The Climate Like?

We offer tours in Puglia from March to October. At the start and end of the season, daytime temperatures are generally mild and comfortable for cycling, typically averaging around 16–20°C (61–68°F). Spring and autumn are also quieter times to visit, with fewer crowds in popular towns such as Alberobello, Ostuni and Lecce.

Temperatures rise steadily through the summer, with July and August typically averaging around 28–31°C (82–88°F) during the day. These are also among the driest months, although temperatures can occasionally climb into the mid-to-high 30s °C (95°F+), particularly on inland sections.

As this tour travels through both inland countryside and along the Ionian and Adriatic coasts, conditions can vary from day to day. Coastal sections often benefit from sea breezes, while inland areas around the Valle d’Itria and Salento can feel noticeably warmer during the height of summer.

Is The Tour Easy To Navigate?

We include detailed navigation instructions and GPX files for your ride. Our navigation app is easy to use, and we provide a clear instructional video before your tour. If you have any difficulty along the way, we are always on hand to assist.

English is widely spoken in many of Puglia’s main towns and tourist areas, particularly in hotels, restaurants and visitor attractions. In smaller villages and more rural areas, English may be less common, but locals are generally welcoming and helpful, and a few basic Italian phrases can go a long way.

What If There Is An Issue On Tour?

Included in your tour is 24/7 message and video support. Whether you need help with navigation, a bike issue, accommodation, medical assistance or anything else along the way, we are always just a message or call away.

We also work with a trusted network of local suppliers and service partners throughout Puglia, allowing us to respond quickly and help resolve any problems as smoothly as possible.

More FAQ

If you haven’t found the answer you’re looking for above, visit our general FAQ page for more information or simply reach out to us with the “Ask A Question” button on the side.

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Price

Puglia 11-Day Gentle

FromNZD$4,810
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Tour Includes


3* or 4* Accommodation Throughout

Breakfast Each Morning

Luggage Transfer

Itinerary & Navigation Documentation

Tips & Local Insights

24-Hour Support

FromNZD$4,810
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