Arrive in Monopoli, a glorious coastal town overlooking the Adriatic. Get lost in a labyrinth of lanes among white-washed houses. Stumble upon the main church and traipse over to the stunning fortress for views to the sea.
Head inland into a picture-perfect landscape, stopping to visit to the enchanting Castellana Caves. Continue onward to Alberobello, the “trulli” capital of the world, where white-washed stone houses and conical roofs are the order of the day. So spend the night in one! And feel you truly have been transported into another world.
41 km, 500m ascent, 100m descent
Pedal along quiet country lanes through rolling hills carpeted in olive groves. As you near Locorotondo, vineyards suddenly begin to dominate the landscape, a testament to the sublime white wines produced here. Stretch your legs and wander through this 'round place' with its perfectly circular old town. Listed as one of Italy’s most beautiful hamlets, the local treasures include several beautiful churches and a bright-white maze of narrow streets.
53 km, 600m ascent, 600m descent
From Alberobello, roll on out to the Adriatic Coast. Your route is a patchwork of ochre-coloured fields, dotted with gnarly olive trees and “trulli” in all shapes and sizes. Cycle the panoramic coast road, a natural balcony against the deep blue, and enjoy the sea breeze as you wind downhill to Conversano. Here, the coastal plains are home to a variety of crops and dotted with elegant 'masserie' farmsteads. Ride onward to reach Monopoli, a bustling fishing village where narrow lanes twist among brilliant white facades.
34 km, 290m ascent, 705m descent
Your cycling trip comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Airport transfers may be arranged in advance and extra nights in Lecce can be booked to extend your visit.