Leaving Lecce early in the morning means experiencing the city at its most authentic: the quiet streets, the golden light on the Baroque facades, and the fresh air that invites you to pedal. We leave the historic old town and head towards the countryside, where the landscape changes rapidly among centuries-old olive trees, dry stone walls, and the scents of Mediterranean vegetation.

The first stop is Acaia, a small fortified village dominated by its 16th-century castle. Here time seems to slow down: the quiet square, the mighty walls and the rural atmosphere create a fascinating contrast with the vibrancy of Lecce. A short stop allows you to discover the history of the place and immerse yourself in the quiet of the Salento countryside.
We continue on towards the Cesine Natural Park, one of the last coastal wetlands that remain intact in Puglia. The route passes through reed beds, ponds, and pine forests, accompanied by birdsong and the salty scent from the lagoon. Cycling here is an immersive experience, a direct contact with the most authentic nature of the area.

Leaving the park, the view opens up to the blue of the Adriatic. We reach San Foca, with its small harbour and crystal-clear waters, and continue along the coast among cliffs, coves, and sea views that change at every turn. The ride takes us to Roca, where we find the famous Cave of Poetry, one of the most evocative natural pools in Italy, famous for its turquoise waters and the legends that surround it.

The last coastal stop is Torre dell'Orso, with its long beach of light sand and the iconic Two Sisters rising out of the sea. It is one of the most scenic places on the Salento Adriatic, perfect for a rejuvenating break.

The return journey takes us through the hinterland, among farms, cultivated fields, and secondary roads surrounded by greenery. A gentle return that concludes a route full of nature, sea, and history, ideal for those who want to discover Salento in an authentic and sustainable way