Lenght
DifficultyAn itinerary along the Salento Coast among pizzica folk-dance, authentic flavours and sunshine
The Otranto Coast – Leuca is one of the most stunning panoramic roads in Italy. You do not need to be well-trained to cycle along this balcony overlooking the sea with continuous undulations. Our route starts from the Castle of Otranto, and from here goes along the coast to the Punta di Palascìa lighthouse (the most eastern point of Italy): on a clear day you can see in the distance the mountains of Albania and the Greek islands. Back on the road for Porto Badisco, a challenging 3 km climb awaits you heading towards the Santa Cesarea Thermal spa with its Moorish-style villas. Next stop: Castro, where you can visit the Zinzulusa grotto, which is unique in Italy, keep going until you get to Ponte del Ciolo, a small canyon carved out by the waters. At this point there will be only one climb before you reach Santa Maria di Leuca.
