About this trip.
Before you book: Walking holidays vs cycling holidays — when each one is the right answer · Self-guided walking holidays — what they actually are, when they beat guided, and four things that go wrong
Lecce to Monopoli by bike
This guided leisure cycling holiday spends eight days in Puglia, the south-eastern region known as the heel of Italy's boot. Greeks, Romans and Spaniards all governed here, and each left their mark. The route starts in Lecce, the capital of the Salento region, often called the "Florence of the South". It follows the Adriatic coast around the heel to Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca. It then loops north along the Ionian coast to Gallipoli, a fishing port and beach destination on the Salento peninsula.
In the second half of the week you leave Salento for the Valle d'Itria. The first stop is Ostuni, the White City, known for its white-washed buildings. From there the route crosses country through ancient olive groves and hilltop villages, on lanes scattered with traditional Trulli houses. You spend an evening in Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage town made up of Trulli. The ride finishes in Monopoli, which sits on limestone cliffs looking out over the Adriatic.
The first two days
On arrival you are met at the airport and transferred to Lecce. After a welcome meeting and bike fitting, there is time to explore the historic centre, with its palaces, churches, bars and cafes.
Day two runs from Lecce to Otranto, about 32 miles (52 km), with roughly 280 metres of ascent. Breakfast and lunch are included. The ride crosses the countryside of Greek Salento, where traces of the former colonies survive in the dialect, food and architecture. It stops at the fortified village of Acaya, known for its castle, then passes through sea-pine and eucalyptus forest to the coast. With the Adriatic on your left, you head south to the Poetry Caves and S. Andrea bay, whose tuff columns are known as I Faraglioni. An undulating stretch between the Alimini Lakes brings you to Otranto, a Greek-Roman port, where you enter the old town past the walls of the Aragonese Castle.
Terrain, hotels and e-bikes
The riding mixes flat and rolling countryside, mainly on quiet country roads with coastal views. Much of it is leisurely, but there are a few climbs during the week. Along the way there are sandy beaches, vineyards, and local produce such as orecchiette and extra virgin olive oil. Nights are spent in 3 and 4-star hotels in Apulian towns and villages.
The tour suits both regular bikes and pedal-assist e-bikes, and you can hire either when you book. Bear in mind that on a group tour the pace is set for riders without e-bikes. A self-guided version of this holiday is also available.
The shape of the trip.
Everything you might be wondering.
Q1How hard are the climbs?
Grading reflects daily distance, total climbing, and traffic. Moderate routes typically involve 40-60km a day with 300-600m of climbing, on quiet roads or well-surfaced bike paths. If you ride regularly at home and can manage a 40km weekend ride, you'll be fine. Check the daily elevation profile when the operator shares it.
Q2Is bike rental included?
It's usually included, with a hybrid as standard and an e-bike or road-bike upgrade available for a supplement. Helmets and panniers normally come with the rental. Check the operator's booking page for the exact inclusions on this trip.
Q3What if I get a puncture?
Rental bikes come with a small repair kit and a pump. If you can't fix it yourself, the operator's support line can arrange a replacement or a lift to the next hotel — times vary by location. Carry a phone and the support number at all times.
Q4Can I use my own bike?
Yes, most operators are happy for you to bring your own bike — you'll often get a small discount off the trip price in lieu of rental. Check with the airline on how to transport it, and bring basic spares (tubes, multi-tool).
Q5Can I do this solo?
Absolutely — self-guided cycling holidays work well for solo travellers. The route notes, GPX files, and 24/7 support are designed for confident independent riders.
Q6What if the weather is bad?
The route is rideable in rain if you're dressed for it, though some surfaces get slower. The operator's support line can reroute you onto a lower / flatter alternative or arrange a vehicle transfer for any stage if conditions are genuinely unsafe.
Q7How do I get there from the UK?
Fly into the nearest airport, then train or transfer to the start point. The operator will advise — some will book onward trains for a small fee. If you're bringing your own bike, check dimensions and dismantling requirements with the airline in advance.
Q8What about cancellation?
A deposit (usually 20-25%) is taken at booking, with the balance due 8-10 weeks before departure. The operator's own terms apply — Mooch doesn't handle the booking or refunds. Travel insurance with cycle cover is strongly recommended.
Three cycling holidays, side-by-side.
The two closest cycling holidays on Mooch, both in Italy. Prices are the operators' own, per person.
