Puglia, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, is the ideal destination for gravel biking enthusiasts. The Itria Valley and Salento in particular offer unique itineraries that combine nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cyclist, Apulia Outdoor is here to guide you through the best gravel trails in Puglia , providing high-quality gravel bikes and luggage transportation for a hassle-free experience.
Salento is a land rich in history, culture and enchanting coastal landscapes. Its gravel trails offer a perfect mix of adventure and discovery.
Distance: 297 km (4 stages)
Difference in altitude: 2280 m
Surface type: 70% asphalt, 25% dirt, 5% single track
Difficulty: High
The Salento Trail is a cycle-tourist route that crosses the Salento hinterland, passing through centuries-old olive groves, historic villages and archaeological sites such as dolmens and menhirs. The itinerary also touches the Adriatic coast, offering spectacular views of the sea.
The Itria Valley is famous for its trulli, farmhouses and rural landscapes characterised by dry stone walls and bright red soil. Cycling here means immersing yourself in a unique environment, where nature and traditional architecture blend harmoniously.
Distance: 51 km
Elevation gain: 501 – 1000 m
Type of surface: Mixed (gravel, dirt, asphalt)
Difficulty: Medium
This circular itinerary starts from Ceglie Messapica and crosses the Ulmo Pine Forest, offering technical ups and downs and breathtaking landscapes. The route follows the service roads of the Apulian Aqueduct, one of the most impressive hydraulic engineering works in the world.
follow Apulia Outdoor on Komoot
For those looking for more adventure, Komoot offers a selection of gravel routes around Otranto:
Mouth of the Alimini Lakes – Bauxite Quarry: 47,1 km, high difficulty
Sant'Andrea – Mouth of the Alimini Lakes: 45,1 km, medium difficulty
Acaya Castle – Acaya Castle: 46,9 km, medium difficulty
These itineraries offer a variety of landscapes, from sandy beaches to bauxite quarries, passing through historic castles.
Plan your trip to the heart of Salento and let yourself be surprised by its timeless traditions.
Discover our experiences or rent a bike
To best tackle Puglia's gravel trails , Apulia Outdoor offers a range of high-quality gravel bikes, ideal for both dirt and paved roads. Our bikes are equipped with tires suitable for various types of terrain and reliable drivetrains, ensuring optimal comfort and performance.
FAQ
Spring and autumn are ideal for the mild climate and fewer tourists.
No, there are itineraries suitable for both beginners and experts.
Yes, we offer a range of high quality gravel bikes for hire.
The service is available upon request and can be included in the package.
Of course, we create tailor-made itineraries based on your needs and preferences.