Puglia Coastal Cycle
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour that takes you through the heart of Italy's southern region. This journey is a delightful blend of cycling, sightseeing, and immersing in the rich history and culture of the region. From the Baroque city of Lecce, known as the 'Florence of the South,' to the ancient Greek city of Gallipoli, and the sun-kissed town of Santa Maria di Leuca, every destination offers a unique experience. The tour also includes a visit to Otranto, Italy's most eastern point, and a scenic ride along the Alimini Lakes. This tour is perfect for those who love adventure, history, and the charm of Italian countryside.
Included
5 breakfasts - varied buffet breakfasts are served in each hotel
vegetarian, vegan, kosher, meat
5 nights accommodation in 3-4 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
The accommodation chosen is a special feature of the trip. Ranging from a seaside hotel in Santa Maria di Leuca with a pool, a historic hotel in Otranto and a modern city hotel in Lecce and Gallipoli*. All accommodation is good quality, from 3 to 4 star, with private facilities. Breakfasts are included and are buffet style with a range of food available from breads and cakes to cheese, meats and yoghurts, sometimes cereal and eggs.
*accommodation subject to availability. If our first choice is not available a property of equal standard will be used but may not be as described above.
hotel: 5 night(s);
Digital information pack including route notes, maps and navigational App (can be used offline) with GPS Tracks (smartphone required)
Rental touring bike with helmet, pannier, puncture resistant tyres and gel saddle (e-bike available on request, supplement applies)
Bike insurance against theft & damage
Emergency hotline
Bike rental is included in the trip price. Standard is a 27 speed touring bike available in various sizes in unisex/women’s or men’s models.
Also available with a supplement: e-bike (9-speed)
Features:
- aluminium frame - mudguard - rear rack - comfort gel saddle www.selleroyal.com - anti-puncture Schwalbe tyres - ergonomic bicycle grips - Speed Lifter system
All rented adult bikes are equipped with:
per bike:
1 cycle computer - 1 Ortlieb pannier - 1 bike lock
per room: 1 front bag - 1 repair kit (1 spare inner tube, glue, patch, a pump, 2 allen keys and tyre levers)
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Helmets are provided and are suitable for head circumferences from 54 to 61. All helmets have a certification mark according to the DIN EN 1078 (CE) European norm.
In order to cycle smoothly following our app, we suggest that you bring with you a holder for your mobile phone, as well as a power bank (even if the app can be used offline, too).
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Please bring your own reusable water bottle.
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We remind you that you are responsible for the rental bikes at all times during the tour. Bicycles must be always locked and possibly secured to a pole, even for short periods.
Mechanical problems during the tour - you will be provided with a local number to call in case there are any technical problems on the trip.
Details to provide:
1. Your name and the tour you are doing
2. Your location (where you are on the map according to the route book / app)
3. details of the problem
4. Give them your mobile number
Our local partner will try to solve the problem as soon as possible and, if necessary, they will suggest a mechanic where it is possible to repair the failure. We ask you only to go to a bike mechanic after being authorized by Girolibero. If a repair is necessary, keep the receipt and send it to us at the end of the tour, so that we can refund you the charges.
In the case of a puncture the assumption is that you can repair. We are unable to assist with tyre repairs. You will be given a proper puncture repair kit, which will enable you to solve the problem.
Own bike
If you want to take the tour with your own bike, before you depart we suggest you ensure all parts of the bike are functioning properly. A cycle computer is necessary to follow the road book. We also highly recommend you bring a repair kit because the emergency number in case of breakdown cannot be used if you are using your own bike. Don’t forget to bring a padlock and always lock your bike.
In case of theft/damage to the rental bike
An insurance against theft and irreparable damage is included in the rental bike price. In case of careless or improper behaviour the insurance will not cover the costs. The insurance covers only the rented bikes, while it is not valid for any bike accessories (lock, helmet, panniers, handlebar bag, child seat, child devices etc…) nor personal belongings left on the bike or in the panniers/handlebar bags. Furthermore, the insurance is not valid for e-bikes used by customers under the age of 18.
In case of theft the insurance may be activated only if the client presents:
- a police report made at the local police office
- the lock key in case of e-bike, or the damaged lock in case of standard bike.
Local cycling rules
Here below are some points to be observed on Italian legislation concerning the movement of bicycles:
- it is recommended to wear helmets, which is not compulsory but advisable for your own safety.
- always proceed on a single line, especially when you are outside city centres
- have free use of arms and a clear view to promptly perform manoeuvres
- Walk the bicycle in case there might be danger to pedestrians
- cycle on the lanes reserved for cyclists
- wear a reflective vest outside city centres from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise and in tunnels
- make sure your BAC (blood alcohol concentration) is below 0.5 g / l.
Digital information pack including route notes, maps and navigational App (can be used offline) with GPS Tracks and travel guide per room booked (smartphone required)
Luggage transfers - 1 piece max 20kg per person, supplement applies for excess
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Lecce
- Lecce - Arrival day
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- Conti Zecca
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Begin your journey in the beautiful city of Lecce, often referred to as the 'Florence of the South' due to its stunning Baroque architecture. After checking into your hotel, spend the day exploring the city's old town, where you can admire the intricate 17th-century sculptures made from the tender stone of Lecce.
Day 2 – Day 2: Lecce to Gallipoli
- Lecce
- Gallipoli
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- Balelido
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Kickstart your cycling adventure by heading into the Salentinian countryside, eventually reaching the Ionian coast and the ancient Greek city of Gallipoli. This charming fishing town is divided into two parts - the new town and the old town, connected by a 17th-century bridge to the mainland.
Day 3 – Day 3: Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca
- Gallipoli
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- Faro di Santa Maria di Leuca
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Continue your cycling journey along the coast until you reach the sun-kissed town of Santa Maria di Leuca. Named 'Leukos' by ancient Greek sailors, this town is now a popular seaside resort and fishing area. Enjoy a refreshing swim at the beach in the afternoon.
Day 4 – Day 4: Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto
- Corigliano d'Otranto
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- Li Marangi
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Embark on another day of cycling along the Adriatic coast, passing through small towns and impressive grottoes. Your destination for the day is Otranto, Italy's most eastern point. Here, you can visit the beautiful Cathedral and the grand Aragonese Castle.
Day 5 – Day 5: Otranto to Lecce via Alimini Lakes
- Corigliano d'Otranto
- Lecce
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- Alimini Lakes
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Today's cycle takes you along the Alimini Lakes, known for their unique Mediterranean bush. Enjoy the scenic ride back to Lecce, where you can relax and reminisce about the adventures of the past few days.
Day 6 – Day 6: Departure from Lecce
- Lecce - Departure day
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After breakfast, your memorable tour concludes. Lecce is well connected by train with the airports of Bari and Brindisi, making your journey home convenient and hassle-free.
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