Granfondo delle Paludi MTB

The Granfondo delle Paludi MTB

The Granfondo delle Paludi MTB is a mountain bike event held in San Donaci, a small town in the Province of Brindisi, in the heart of northern Salento. Established in 2025, the granfondo grew rapidly to become one of the most anticipated appointments on the Apulian MTB calendar: the second edition, held in May 2026, attracted 180 athletes from every corner of Puglia.

A route between nature and adrenaline

The track spans about 55 kilometers almost entirely on dirt roads, crossing the Brindisi countryside through a tapestry of olive groves, vineyards, rural lanes, and highly scenic spots. The event's name refers to the local wetland areas, the so-called "paduli", natural environments that make this corner of Salento unique. However, the route is not just a scenic ride: it features single tracks and two technical sections designed to challenge even the most experienced bikers, alternating physical exertion, technique, and landscape.

The masserie and the Tempietto di San Miserino

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Granfondo delle Paludi is the passage through the area's historic masserie: Masseria Patuli, Masseria Monticello, Masseria San Marco, Masseria Falli, Masseria Falco, Masseria Palazzo, and Masseria Mariana. Among the most characteristic points of the track is the passage near the Tempietto di San Miserino, a symbolic place of local history and devotion. For this reason, the event is not just a sports race, but also a valuable opportunity to promote the rural and landscape heritage of San Donaci.

Organization and territory

The event is organized by ASD San Donaci Bike with the support of the BicinPuglia UISP (Sport for All) network and the patronage of the Municipality of San Donaci. Attention to detail, from track preparation to hospitality, and from safety to logistics, is a hallmark of an event that, despite its youth, has already carved out a permanent place in the panorama of Apulian mountain bike granfondos. The day concludes with the traditional pasta party and awards ceremony, a moment of celebration and conviviality that strengthens the event's community spirit.