Puglia eBike
– The Heel
of Italy
Cycle along the coast of
south-eastern Italy, experience its
history, architecture and cuisine.
The Puglia (Apulia) region of south-eastern Italy has quite a story to tell, having been in the hands of the Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, Spaniards and others, each contributing to the region’s varied dialects, flavourful cuisine, and distinctive architecture.
This is Italy’s best kept secret for outstanding cycling and with eBiking new on the scene, there has never been a better time to visit. From Otranto, the crossroads of culture, to the enchanting white sand beaches near Gallipoli. Enjoy riding through sparsely inhabited ancient olive groves, Mediterranean Mache and invigorating coastal roads, all with views that will make you fall in love.
We offer Puglia, the The Heel of Italy as a 6 day eBike cycling tour
April – June and September – October
Self Guided
Arrival Sunday, start eBiking Monday
Duration: 6 days
Pricing based on minimum 4 participants, single / 2/3 pax option available with supplement.
Grading: Moderate / Challenging
Nearest Airport: Bari (BRI) or Brindisi (BDS)
Starting point: Lecce
Days 1 - 2
Arrive in the Baroque masterpiece of southern Italy: Lecce has a lovely historic centre (centro storico) where you can easily spend a day exploring its picturesque little lanes and discovering its treasures of the architecture and the Baroque churches. This lovely town will charm you with its attractive countryside, seashore and small towns close by.
Lecce to Gallipoli (49 km)
Today’s ride is you and nature. Pedal across flat countryside, an occasional olive tree, pine tree forests and sand dunes. The natural morphing of the scenery is spectacular, especially as this area is almost uninhabited. Pass ancient seaside watch towers, as you approach the medieval fishing town of Gallipoli, bursting with life.
Days 3 - 4
Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca (51 km)
A coastal road takes you to the southernmost point of Puglia, which divides the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. But first, take a swim in the turquoise waters of paradise, at the Torre del Pizzo beach and lie upon the fine white sands. Then continue south to Santa Maria di Leuca, a magnificent village of fantastic beaches and wacky, wild, colourful mansions.
Nb. There is the option of staying 2 nights at our excellent hotel in Santa Maria di Leuca, enjoying the hotel facilities and having a little longer to explore the town, swim in the sea and take a boat trip from the ‘heel’ of Italy.
Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto (51.5 km)
Revel in the sea breezes as you ride along the high coastal route, winding your way along the gentle, undulating ridges of the cliffs. Phenomenal views will make you feel part of a National Geographic cycling special feature. Stop for a glimpse of the spectacular cave, the Grotta Zinzulusa, and then on to Otranto, a Greek-come-Roman port town, frequented by merchants and thrill seekers.
Days 5 - 6
Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto (51.5 km)
Today you visit the Alimini Lakes which run parallel to the sea. Cycle your way through the countryside of Greek Salento, where traces of the former colonies are still present in the dialect, cuisine and bright style of architecture. The whites shine against the euphoric blue of the sea. Arrive in Lecce, a brilliant city full of wonderful palaces and a treasure which will mesmerize you.
Arrivederci Lecce ! The trip and our services end after breakfast. You may book extra nights in Lecce or a transfer directly to the airport.
e-Bike Information
Model: Atala Bfree E-bike
Assistance modes: ECO, TOUR, SPORT and TURBO
Battery: BOSCH Lithium Ion 36V, 300 WH, under the roof rack, weight 2.4 kg. Recharge mobile devices via USB on board!
Autonomy: Up to 145 km in Eco, up to 85 km in Tour, up to 70 km in Sport, up to 65 km in Turbo (with charged battery and up to 75 kg load)
Charging time: Up to 2.5 hours (300wh)
Maximum assistance speed: 25 km / h
Power: Walk assist: 0-6 km / h without pedaling
Sizes: XS – S – M
Hybrids and Trekking bikes also available
Need To Know
Accommodation
All the accommodation for this trip is different, as the areas are sparsely populated.
They are all comfortable 3* and 4* hotels or cosy B&B, depending on the version of the trip:
CHARME VERSION: All 4* hotels
All the rooms have a private bathroom and a continental breakfast is served each morning.
What’s included
- 5 Nights in selected B&Bs, hotels and agriturismo
- 5 Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers
- Bike delivery to Lecce, theft insurance and collection from Lecce
- eBike hire €183 includes bike, rear bag, helmet, odometer, a Hybrid bike is also available at €123
- Detailed information pack, route notes, gps tracks, phone holder, bike lock, rear side bag and odometer
- 24/7 telephone support
NOT INCLUDED
- Lunch / Dinner
Guides
This is a SELF GUIDED trip, however should you prefer to have the expertise of a Cycle Leader then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
We adopt an excellent guiding ratio meaning we can cater for differing levels within the group:
One Guide – 1 – 7 clients
Two Guides – 8 – 14 clients
Booking and Price
The Heel of Italy – Classic 6 days and 5 nights
* Extra nights available
14/4/2024 – 27/5/2024 & 1/10/2024 – 13/10/2024
Double / Twin Room €804 pp
Single Room €1052 pp
Triple Room €674 pp
28/5/2024 – 11/6/2024 & 8/9/2024 – 21/9/2024
Double / Twin Room €849 pp
Single Room €1134 pp
Triple Room €718 pp
12/6/2024 – 19/6/2024
Double / Twin Room €857 pp
Single Room €1149 pp
Triple Room €723 pp
20/6/2024 – 9/7/2024
Double / Twin Room €890 pp
Single Room €1224 pp
Triple Room €733 pp
10/7/2024 – 21/7/2024
Double / Twin Room €927 pp
Single Room €1288 pp
Triple €763 pp
22/9/2024 – 30/9/2024
Double / Twin Room €827 pp
Single Room €1097 pp
Triple Room €699 pp
We manage every booking independently to ensure attention to detail and provide a personalised service.