Top Lecce Outdoor Activities

The Leuca kayak tour is our most beatiful tour! It takes place along the last stretch of the ionian coast of Salento. It is suitable for those who have never gone kayaking. Included in the price is the sea kayak course for beginners guided by a 2nd level sea kayak instructor of the Italian Canoe and Kayak Federation. On the way we will show you hidden caves and ravines, all to be explored! After putting on the life jackets and entering our kayaks, we will be ready to sail south from Marina di Felloniche, alongside the splendid Ionian coast of Santa Maria di Leuca. We will enter many caves including: Dragon Cave, Lovers Cave, Three Doors Cave, Nativity Cave, River Cave. In the last one you will get off the kayaks to swim and to do a short speleological trek.

The Porto Selvaggio kayak tour is our most popular tourn, suitable for those who have never been kayaking. During the tour we will show you hidden caves and ravines, all waiting to be explored! We will kayak along the rocky coast overlooking the sea where the Tower of S. Maria dell'Alto stands. We will take advantage of the unique perspective from the sea and the proximity to the coast that only a kayak can offer to visit one of the most beautiful stretches of sea in the Ionian Salento! Along this stretch of coast is the stunning Grotta Verde. If the sea conditions allows it, we will also be able to enter it! Once we arrive at the bay of Porto Selvaggio, we will disembark with the kayaks on a rocky beach. At this point there will be the ritual of the kayak baptism, which consists of a full immersion in the icy waters of the spring. This will be followed by a walk in the pine forest and finally we will dive from the cliff to swim into the Gaia Cave. N.B. The experience is not suitable for people weighing more than 100kg

The sea caves of Santa Maria di Leuca are only available by boat—but not everyone wants to spend their vacation jostling for views on a crowded cruise. Ideal for anyone seeking a more relaxed, bespoke experience, this small-group, half-day cruise takes in two iconic grottoes, Leuca lighthouse, panoramic views from Punta Ristola, and sails past a 16th-century Spanish watchtower—all with a maximum of just 12 people on board.

The caves and coves of Santa Maria di Leuca are only reachable by boat—but private cruises are often prohibitively costly, while shared boat rides can be overly crowded. Strike the perfect balance between both options on this small-group, half-day cruise, which is capped at only 11 people. Two swimming and snorkeling stops are included, plus a cocktail and snacks.

Sit back and relax and admire views of the coast that you can’t get any other way on a small-group sailing trip from Gallipoli. Follow the coastline, then head out to the Island of Sant Andrea, where you visit the lighthouse and get the chance to swim and snorkel. Snacks and aperitifs, including local wine and prosecco, are provided. Choose from morning, afternoon, or evening sailings to suit your schedule.

Lecce is famous for its baroque architecture and authentic cuisine. With this cooking class in the heart of the city’s old town, experience the best of both. Meet your hosts at an “osteria” set on one of the most charming lanes in the historic center and discover the secrets to rolling and shaping fresh “orecchiette” pasta, a traditional specialty from Puglia. Then relax over a guided wine tasting paired with regional delicacies.

Marine excursion in kayak and canoe in the splendid waters of Santa Maria di Leuca. We will paddle in this beautiful stretch of the Ionian coast and discover its most particular characteristics, its geological origins but also the charm of its ancient history with a route among the most beautiful caves.

Discover the sea of Gallipoli with an unforgettable sunset experience, from 17:00 to 20:00, on board our sailboat! A short but intense journey along the beautiful coast of Salento, perfect for those who want to experience the sea with tranquility, between relaxation, swimming and breathtaking views, immersed in the warm colors of the sunset. It starts from the Marina Yachting Portolano in Gallipoli to sail to one of the most suggestive stretches of the coast, such as Punta della Suina, the Island of Sant’Andrea or Punta Pizzo, depending on wind and sea conditions. During the excursion there is at least one stop for swimming, in clear waters and seabed ideal for swimming, snorkeling or simply relaxing in the open sea. The experience will be accompanied by a small aperitif on board with typical local products, to be enjoyed while the sun sets over the sea, giving a unique and suggestive atmosphere. The program may vary slightly depending on weather conditions.

Set sail from Leuca to the point where the Ionian and Adriatic Seas meet, exploring stunning caves steeped in myths and legends. Swim in crystal-clear waters, with the thrill of entering the Blowhole Cave with your guide. Along the way, your skipper shares fascinating stories, and the experience ends with a local aperitif on board with sea views.

Santa Maria di Leuca spans both the Ionian and the Adriatic seas. Discover the caves on both sides of the cape during this convenient cruise, complete with swim stops and snorkeling gear for you to enjoy the gin-clear waters and see the formations up close. Admire the lighthouse and more than 15 different caves, each with their own formations, stories, and legends that your skipper introduces.

The archeological sites at the coast of Porto Cesareo tell us about a local history that was intimately bound to the rest of the Mediterranean. Indeed, the archeological remains that we will see will lead us to consider the relationships with other parts of the basin and to talk about ancient navigation, the “marble route” coming from the Aegean and deities coming from ancient Egypt. In addition, it will appear clear the relevance of physical geography shaping local history. Thus, we will talk about the main features of the Mediterranean Basin, the evolution of coastal topography and geomorphological processes. After describing and talking about the history of modern and contemporary buildings that we will see, we will try to reconstruct the evolution of the coastal landscape and the destruction of the coastal ecosystems. This tour is recommended for archeology, history, geography and culture enthusiasts, naturalists, swimmers, active tourists and adventure seekers.

Explore the Lecce countryside on a premium E-bike along an easy flat 28 km (17-mile) route. Ride through quiet rural roads to ancient villages and discover Salento’s traditions. In Sternatia, meet Gaetano—a storyteller and poet who speaks Griko, the ancient Greek dialect of the Grecìa Salentina. With him, explore a 15th-century underground olive oil mill, hear a poem in Griko, and learn stories about lamp-oil traders, village life, and this unique cultural enclave. Continue through two villages of the Grecìa Salentina, home of the Griko people, a Greek-speaking community with 3,000 years of history. In Galatina, visit the Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, famous for its 14th-century Giotto-style frescoes. Stop at Pasticceria Ascalone, birthplace of the Pasticciotto (1740) At 1 PM, a private taxi (included) takes you back to Lecce. NOTE: Optional Primitivo wine tasting and traditional Puglian lunch (extra cost; private groups only; request one week in advance).

Join the most loved boat tour! An excursion of about 3 hours, starting from the port of Otranto, to discover the wonderful north coast, among crystal clear waters, natural caves and spectacular bays During the tour we will visit: Bay Water Mill Cave Broken Cave of the Shells Brown Bay Bay of the Turks ‍There are 2 bathroom stops to relax and swim in the most beautiful coves of the coast. During the last stop we will also offer you an aperitif on board to enjoy the sea in total relaxation.

Make exploring beyond Lecce city limits easy—and discover many of Puglia's top towns and attractions in just one day—on this small-group tour of the Salento region. Visit Galatina, known for its churches and frescoes; coastal Otranto, which boasts ancient heritage; Santa Maria di Leuca, with cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea; and Gallipoli, whose Old Town is located on a coastal island.

We embark from the "Porto Vecchio" of Santa Maria di Leuca in the direction of the most famous and authentically beautiful caves on the Adriatic side, skirting Punta Meliso which houses the Basilica Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae, the Leuca Lighthouse and the Monumental Staircase and the Ionian, crossing the marina of Leuca enclosed between Punta Meliso and Punta Ristola, the southernmost emerged land of Puglia.

Leave the legwork to someone else on this private beach-hopping tour around the Otranto coast. Begin the day shopping for souvenirs in Otranto before traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle to Turks’ bay—one of Italy’s most unspoiled beaches. Relax in a sun lounger, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or discover hidden coves on a walk. Towards the end of your tour, soak up the views at Torre Sant’ Andrea and Le Due Sorelle beaches.

A gentle and flat path of about 38km, which will guide you through the historical and natural beauty of the Lecce countryside. Starting from Lecce, the baroque city par excellence, you will cycle to the Church of Santa Maria d'Auria, a hidden gem immersed in the Salento countryside, surrounded by centuries-old olive trees and a serene atmosphere. From there, the journey continues to the Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate, an ancient masterpiece of Apulian Romanesque architecture, surrounded by a vast olive grove and today an FAI site, which you can also visit inside to appreciate its timeless beauty. You will continue towards the natural park of Rauccio, a protected area characterized by a rare forest of Leccese oaks where you can enjoy a moment of relaxation tasting your picnic with typical local products. Finally, the route will take you back to Lecce, concluding an excursion that harmoniously blends history, nature and culinary culture, offering a unique and accessible experience for everyone.

Pizzica experience wants to teach and experience firsthand the dance and tradition of the Salento pizzica, a dance that has become famous throughout the world. The activity will take place in a location from the 1400s, in an ancient courtyard in the heart of the center of Lecce. You will also be offered an aperitif with local products and wine. A professional pizzica dancer will teach you the steps so you can dance with her. You will touch the tambourine with your hands, made by Salento artisans. The languages spoken are: Italian, English, French and Spanish.

The Porto Cesareo Marine Protected Area preserves some of Puglia's most unspoiled coastal scenery—and this half-day boat tour is a great way to experience it first-hand. Traveling aboard a refurbished former fishing boat, set off to discover many of the region's key sights, from the historic Torre di San Tommaso watchtower to archaeological sites, tiny islands, and popular swimming and snorkeling destinations.

What makes this activity special This sailing experience is the ideal way to discover Salento from its best point of view: the sea. This is not just a hike, but a moment of authentic relaxation, away from the crowds and crowded tours. When the wind allows, you can sail in total tranquility, enjoying the silence and colors of the Ionian Sea. The local skipper selects the best itinerary every day based on the weather conditions, taking you to the most beautiful and less frequented bays, with stops to swim in clear and crystal clear waters. The limited number of guests guarantees comfort, attention and an intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples, families and small groups. It is a curated, sustainable and personalized experience, ideal for those who want to experience the Salento sea in an exclusive, relaxing and memorable way.

Explore a side of the Ionian coastline that most visitors never see with this catamaran day cruise from Porto Cesario. Sail up the Gulf of Taranto to admire hidden coves and sandy beaches, snorkel in underwater Roman ruins and colorful reefs, and take a dip off wild islands inhabited only by local fauna. End with an aperitif featuring local wines and gourmet specialties on board.

Use a local guide There are a maximum of 10 people on the boat On board fridge with drink included Explore beautiful places Choose a guided tour means you can better appreciate the beauty of the coast and the sea of Santa Maria di Leuca. It is included a stop for swimming that permits you to visit "the cave of the splash"(Grotta dello spruzzo/grotta del soffio) with its light. Grotta del terradico, grotta dei gabbiani, verduselle, grotta della vora, grotta delle mannute. After Punta Ristola you can see the caves (grotta del fiume,grotta delle tre porte, grotta della stalla, grotta degli innamorati e grotta del drago) and the coast, direction Gallipoli, until about 4 km from Leuca. We offer a stop for swimming near a cave

Marine kayak excursion in the beautiful waters of Roca Vecchia. We will pay in this beautiful stretch of the Adriatic coast and discover its most particular characteristics, its geological origins but also the charm of its ancient history.