Setting off from Lecce early in the morning means experiencing the city at its most authentic: quiet streets, golden light on the Baroque façades and fresh air that invites you to cycle. We leave the historic old town and head out into the countryside, where the landscape changes rapidly between centuries-old olive trees, dry-stone walls and the scents of Mediterranean maquis.
The first stop is Acaya, a small fortified town dominated by its 16th-century castle. Here, time seems to slow down: the quiet square, the imposing walls and the rural atmosphere create a fascinating contrast with the vibrancy of Lecce. A brief stop allows you to discover the history of the place and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Salento countryside.
We continue on to the Cesine Nature Park, one of the last unspoiled coastal wetlands in Puglia. The route passes through reed beds, ponds and pine forests, accompanied by birdsong and the salty scent wafting in from the lagoon. Cycling here is an immersive experience, direct contact with the most authentic nature of the area.
Once you leave the park, the view opens up to the blue of the Adriatic. We reach San Foca, with its small harbor and crystal-clear waters, and continue along the coast among cliffs, coves and seascape views that change with every turn. The ride takes us to Roca, home to the famous Cave of Poetry, one of the most stunning natural pools in Italy, known for its turquoise waters and the legends that surround it.
The last coastal stop is Torre dell'Orso, with its long beach of light-colored sand and the iconic Two Sisters rising out of the sea. It is one of the most scenic spots on the Salento Adriatic coast, perfect for a rejuvenating break.
The return journey takes us through the hinterland, among farmhouses, cultivated fields and secondary roads immersed in greenery. A leisurely return that brings to a close a route rich in nature, sea and history, ideal for those who want to discover Salento in an authentic and sustainable way.
