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Arrival: Participants will reach Otranto (or Lecce). Initial briefing of the trip.
Embark on our inaugural bicycle excursion through the environs of Otranto. Following the course of the “Idro” river, which lends its name to the city, we explore a historic Byzantine crypt dating back to the 13th century. Our journey continues to Casamassela, where traditional looms are still in use at the “Le Costantine” foundation. In Giurdignano, we encounter a Bronze Age megalithic garden, showcasing ancient “dolmen” and “menhir” prehistoric monuments. Amidst grand stones and majestic olive trees, we conduct a preliminary assessment to group participants by skill level. Enjoy a lunch visit and culinary experience at a renowned bakery, where a local farming family crafts artisanal baked goods from heritage grains. Return to Otranto for a leisurely afternoon exploring the city, with an optional sunset horse riding activity.
Today’s itinerary unfolds along the captivating Italian coastline, highlighting the remarkable Palascia lighthouse at the easternmost point of Italy and a picturesque lake formed in a former bauxite quarry, radiating natural beauty. As we traverse this easternmost region of the peninsula, clear skies offer views of the Albanian and Greek mountains across the bay. The morning ride culminates with Italian language classes atop our hotel’s rooftop terrace. Enjoy breakfast and lunch.
Continuing along the Otranto-Leuca coast, we encounter several fortified towers dating back to the 16th century, resiliently facing the sea. Upon reaching Marina Serra, an Italian lesson unfolds amidst a coastal pine forest, followed by an engaging interaction with members of Coppula Tisa, an active citizenship association. After a restful afternoon by a scenic bay, where swimming is possible, we proceed to Santa Maria di Leuca, embracing the sunset over the Ionian Sea.
Today offers a relaxing respite from cycling activities. Following breakfast, partake in Italian language classes within the historic confines of a 20th-century villa. A midday sailing excursion with onboard lunch adds a delightful touch to the day.
Embark on a day filled with Italian lessons while exploring the villages surrounding the captivating Capo di Leuca area. Journey through ancient towers, underground oil mills, a pre-Roman city ruin, a Mausoleum housing Byzantine frescoes, a semi-abandoned castle, and an ancient pilgrim station boasting an immense underground space for pilgrims’ repose. A continuous Italian lesson accompanies these explorations. Experience lunch at Pescoluse beach, renowned as the “Maldives of Salento,” and savor a lengthy seaside break. Before reaching Capilungo, indulge in a refreshing stop at Torre San Giovanni’s finest gelateria.
Today’s Italian lesson unfolds amidst a coastal pine forest neighboring one of Italy’s famed beaches. Following lunch, a visit to Gallipoli, an ancient Roman-era city on an island now inhabited by fishermen, precedes our journey to Santa Caterina for an overnight stay at a sea-view B&B. Enjoy breakfast and lunch.
Today marks the culmination of our Italian course with a hands-on cooking lesson and familial lunch at a local farmhouse, guided by one of our partner’s mothers in the region’s culinary specialties. In the afternoon, venture on foot or by kayak to the Porto Selvaggio natural reserve, a scenic woodland by the sea.
Dedicate the entire day to cycling, ascending towards Lecce through the cultivated countryside. Admire the fortified farmhouses and 19th-century villas that grace the landscape en route to Nardò, known for its remarkable Baroque-style historic center. A stop at a renovated farm for an olive oil tasting precedes a visit to Copertino to explore its imposing Norman Castle and the legends of St. Joseph, the patron saint of flights. Conclude the day in Lecce, returning the bicycles.
Embark on a guided walking tour of Lecce in the morning before departure.
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