Puglia, from Sassi to Salento

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This self-guided tour covers a small, but stunning part of Italy. Discover the beauty of Basilicata and Puglia in the south of Italy. Vibrant and green, the Puglia region forms the “tacco” or heel in the boot of Italy. Its eastern borders runs along the Adriatic Sea. Nested in the curve of the boot, the wild earth of Basilicata is bathed by two seas: the Tyrrheninan in the Gulf of Policastro and the Lonian in the Gulf of Gecko. During this trip, you will have the chance to discover six beautiful cities in those regions, taste traditional Italian food.

Price from : 1515€
BIKE INCLUDED
Region : Basilicata
Duration : 8 Days / 7 Nights
Level :
Type : On the way
Category : Bike
Trip : Self-guided
Activity : Hybrid
Dates : Starts any day
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Click below to see hotels versions.

Day 1 :   Welcome to Basilicata

Arrive on your own in Matera and get settled in at your hotel. In the afternoon you will have your orientation, receive your bicycles and review your trip information. As an option you can take a guided walking tour of the Sassi districts (the houses and shops here are carved into the rock) and the Park of Rupestrian Churches. These are both on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Dinner tonight is on your own. We recommend restaurants in the Sassi so that you might fully enjoy these unique buildings.

Day 2 :   Matera to Alberobello

Distance 1 : 43 Miles - 69 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 628 Meters 

Your first ride will take you through the small villages of Gioia del Colle and Noci before arriving in Alberobello. Your accommodation tonight will be in a traditional trullo. These limestone dwellings are unique to Puglia and Alberobello has the best example and greatest concentration of trulli. We hope you will enjoy your stay in this town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3 :   Alberobello to Ostuni “The White”

Distance 1 : 28 Miles - 45 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 432 Meters 

Head out across the Itria Valley, stopping along the way in Locorotondo and Cisternino. Your destination today is Ostuni, commonly referred to as “the White Town” for its white walls and white-painted architecture. Interestingly, for a place inhabited since the Stone Age, the name Ostuni is derived from Greek and means “new town”. Of course for a town with such a long history there is an “old town” in Ostuni. Be sure to visit this citadel on top of the hill and its fortification walls.

Day 4 :   Castles and Farmhouses

Distance 1 : 34 Miles - 55 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 234 Meters 

Head south on quiet country roads to the charming town of Francavilla Fontana and then on to Oria, famous for its castle dating from the 13th century. Your accommodation for the night will be in a masseria, an Apulian farm estate converted to a bed and breakfast.

Day 5 :   Gallipoli and the Lonian Coast

Distance 1 : 35 Miles - 57 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 199 Meters 

Today you will pass through Porto Selvaggio (literally wild port) as you head along the Ionian coast to reach Gallipoli. Derived from the Greek word Kallipolis, this is truly a “beautiful city.” There are several churches of note, a castle and the “Greek Fountain”. If the weather is nice, maybe you could enjoy a dip in the ocean or a picnic on the beach.

Day 6 :   Far East

Distance 1 : 44 Miles - 71 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 505 Meters 

You will depart the Ionian Coast, cycle across the Salento Peninsula and arrive in Otranto on the rocky Adriatic Coast of Southern Italy. The atmosphere here is unique in a city with Greek and Ottoman influences. Otranto Cathedral is of special interest with its mosaic floor and the memorial to the Martyrs of Otranto.

Day 7 :   Gallipoli to Lecce, the Baroque Gem

Distance 1 : 28 Miles - 45 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 234 Meters 

Your cycling adventure will come to a close as you arrive in Lecce. With many Baroque style buildings, Lecce is often referenced as “the Florence of the South.” As you enjoy a walk to visit some of these monuments, take a lunch break in the city square. Sample some puccia (a flat bread filled with salami or vegetables) or a pasticciotto (a pastry filled with ricotta or egg custard).

Day 8 :   Departure from Lecce

Today is departure day, you can take your time getting started in the morning, have breakfast and depart at your leisure.

Average / Day : Distance : 57.00 Km / 35.33 Miles - Elevation gain : 372.00 Meters

Click below to see hotels versions.


Day : 1

The Hotel Ridola in Matera is a location rich in history. The hotel enjoys a strategic position with an easy, walking distance, access to the historical city center. This location is perfect for to avoid traffic and parking problems. You’ll enjoy free parking, daily breakfast, and in summer time you will be able to lounge in a refreshing outdoor pool surrounded by relaxing green spaces.


Day : 2

Nestled in the magic scenery of Trulli, Trulli Holiday offers the opportunity to stay in historic homes, unique in the world, Unesco World Heritage Site, an alternative to the classic Hotel in Alberobello. Our Trulli are carefully restored and furnished according to tradition without neglecting the comfort and refinement. Trulli Holiday is happy to welcome you among the Pinnacles and the living stone of Alberobello magical Trulli, a town located in the hills of Valle d'Itria, small and unique, with the helpfulness and hospitality, being a precious trademark of ours.


Day : 3

With its impressive façade, Ostuni Palace fits in perfectly in the White City of Ostuni. It offers a spa, an elegant piano bar, and an Italian restaurant. All rooms are air-conditioned and have free wired internet. Offering panoramic views across the town's whitewashed buildings, the Ostuni Palace is 10 minutes' walk from the main square.


Day : 4

Masseria Bosco is on 100 hectares of olive groves in the Salento area, just a 2-minute drive from the center of Avetrana. It offers an on-site restaurant, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Each of the Bosco's rooms has its own private bathroom, antique furnishings and original architecture. Some rooms have panoramic views over the countryside. The Bosco's restaurant serves characteristic cuisine of the Salento area in the farmhouse's renovated hayloft.


Day : 5

Al Pescatore**** Hotel & Restaurant, housed in a 17th ancient building, is shining again in its everlasting beauty after a long period of renovation. The building enjoys a strategic position in the historical centre of Gallipoli giving everybody the opportunity to satisfy all kind of requirements and to fully appreciate the so-called “Ionian Pearl”. The Hotel is located along the Riviera Cristoforo Colombo, which is interested in the ZTL ( Limited traffic Zone). That means that You are only allowed for check-in and check out for delivering Your lugguages, than all autos have to be parked in the harbour area which is below the structure and is about 70 meters away.


Day : 6

Relais Valle dell'Idro, your brand-new luxury dwelling in Otranto. For a stay marked by luxury and exclusivity, which will make your journey in Puglia unforgettable. Rooms are sober and refined in minimal chic style, functional and all comforts included, with two typologies available, standard and luxury. Beds with headboards in midollino and leather, doors in crystal and embroidered linen, curtains detailed by stylized corals which recall the logo of the hotel, and again lamps in parchment carved in decapato wood.


Day : 7

Palazzo Dei Dondoli is just 200 m from Porta Rudiae and a 5-minute walk from the city center. Featuring a sun terrace and bar, this property also provides free newspapers. With elegant furnishings, rooms and apartments in this b&b include a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Apartments are complete with a kitchenette. Breakfast is served buffet style. It consists of both sweet and savory food. Palazzo Dei Dondoli is a 15-minute walk from Lecce Train Station. The beaches along the Puglia coastline are 9.3 mi away.


Day : 1

The Palazzo, after its ancient and noble scenario, has been renewed and has opened its doors to the town as well as to travelers. Keeping up its luster in its new life, the architect Mr. Ettore Mocchetti turned Palazzo Gattini into a historic place of value, giving it new life, sophistication and refinement. Suffused and gentle lighting invites you to slow down the pace, and gives you the pleasant relax and creates warming moments.


Day : 2

In the heart of the Itria Valley, in Alberobello, Apulia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Le Alcove is a charming luxury resort in the trulli. Located in the main square of the town, the resort origins date back to the second half of the sixteenth century when the small fief called "Silva Arboris Belli" began to populate. Under the rule of the Acquaviva Counts of Conversano the peasants had to reclaiming and cultivating the land and were authorised to build dry-stone wall houses only...


Day : 3

The Relais “La Sommità”, one of the few 5 star hotels in Puglia, is a historic 16th century residence, which represents a jewel in the crown of this old town of Ostuni, a renowned tourist resort in Puglia and noted as the “White city”. Within this luxury hotel, the Relais “La Sommità” in Puglia, our Guests rediscover the five senses: the furnishings, the fabrics and ornaments develop the emotion of touch, fragrances and music stimulate the sense of smell and hearing whilst lights and flavours rouse sight and taste, enabling guests to sustain their day-to-day rituals and everyday life in comfort and relaxation without giving up a decisive and total design... For a holiday steeped in luxury and exclusivity, making your holiday in Puglia an unforgettable one.


Day : 4

Vinilia Wine Resort has a restaurant, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a bar and garden in Manduria. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a playground. The property has a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, room service and free WiFi throughout the property. A continental breakfast is available each morning at the hotel. At Vinilia Wine Resort guests are welcome to use a hot tub.


Day : 5

Developed from the renovation of two ancient XIX century buildings, the Hotel reflects the love of luxury and attention to detail. It boasts a panoramic terrace with a hydro massage-pool where you can spend relaxing moments, such as sunbathing, having breakfast or brunch, or enjoying a drink at sunset surrounded by the breathtaking view of the sea and the harbor. A visit to the “DolceVita” Restaurant and to the “Wine Time Salento” wine house, which specializes in wines and local products, is a necessary stop-over for our guests. The attentive hospitality and willingness of all our staff will make your stay in Salento’s famous "Città Bella" unforgettable.


Day : 6

In the historic center of Otranto, Hotel Palazzo Papaleo is the charming hotel that you've dreamed of for your vacation in Salento, a historic residence near the sea, carefully renovated with splendid rooms with every comfort. With an intimate and welcoming wellness center, Hotel Palazzo Papaleo 5 stars in Otranto is in a perfect position between the ancient basilica and the sea, right in the historic center, and has a teamthat will make your stay in Puglia charming, romantic and unforgettable.


Day : 7

Featuring a roof-top restaurant with panoramic views, the Risorgimento Resort is located in Lecce’s Baroque historic centre. It offers free WiFi throughout, large modern rooms, and a relaxing spa. The attentive staff provide a continental buffet breakfast. The 3 restaurants offer both Salento flavours and classic Italian cooking. Drinks and snacks are available all day at the Janet Ross Bar.

Bikes available for your tour

The characteristics of this bike are presented as an example and are not guaranteed
Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee.

Hybrid bike - Standard
VELO DE VILLE - ( or equivalent)
INCLUDED

To enable our guests to go on our tours with a peace of mind all our bicycles are equipped with: a cycle-computer, signal lamps, rear pack frame with side bags and an emergency pack (universal tools for small repairs — spare tube). The bicycles we provide come in different sizes so as to satisfy our clients’demands.

  • Gears Shimano 27 speed Deore
  • Wheels/Tube 28” Schwalbe
  • Weight 13,6 Kg
  • Brakes V-Brakes (or disc)
  • Frame Aluminium
  • Fork Rigid (or suspension forks on demand)
  • Saddle Royal gel – Comfortable
  • Handlebar Comfortable adjustable v-zoom
  • Light LED (front/rear)
  • Mud Guard Plastic
  • Rear pack frame Aluminium until 20 kgs
  • 1 new bottle
  • Helmet
  • Odometer
  • Lock
  • Pump frame
  • 1 Handlebar bag with rain cover containing : Tire levers / 2 Spare tubes / Toolkit
  • Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request. If you want to use your bike shoes, you should bring your own pedals + pedal wrench : we will be happy to install them on your bike.

Accessories


INCLUDED

Roadbook for Discovery allows you to travel freely with all the information you need for your trip: Stages, points of interest, itineraries with interactive guidance, travel documents.

All in offline mode, you download your file before leaving, then you have all the information necessary for your trip. (Phone not provided).


INCLUDED

Our roadbooks are complete packages of information that will help you to guide yourself through the itinerary that we have planned and laid out. We have invested significant time and incorporated the feedback of our customers over many years (since 1997!) to make our roadbooks even better. Our roadbooks include: color maps, highlighted routes, touristic information, orientation points to reach hotels, and easy to follow step by step directions (cue-sheets). Please note that for custom itineraries you will not have cue sheets. Only maps and GPS routes.


INCLUDED

Our Travelbooks are complete packages of information that will help you to guide yourself through the itinerary that we have planned and laid out. You will find information about the hotels, itinerary, regional informations...

Daily Elevation Profiles
Average / Day : Distance : 57.00 Km / 35.33 Miles - Elevation gain : 372.00 Meters
Day 2 :   Matera to Alberobello

Option 1: 43 Miles - 69 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 628 Meters 

Day 3 :   Alberobello to Ostuni “The White”

Option 1: 28 Miles - 45 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 432 Meters 

Day 4 :   Castles and Farmhouses

Option 1: 34 Miles - 55 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 234 Meters 

Day 5 :   Gallipoli and the Lonian Coast

Option 1: 35 Miles - 57 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 199 Meters 

Day 6 :   Far East

Option 1: 44 Miles - 71 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 505 Meters 

Day 7 :   Gallipoli to Lecce, the Baroque Gem

Option 1: 28 Miles - 45 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 234 Meters 

Included

  • 7 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
  • Daily breakfast at each hotel
  • Orientation in person with our local guide
  • Hybrid bike rental included
  • Guidance Application (phone not provided)
  • All luggage transfers
  • Comprehensive trip literature
  • Technical and emergency support available at all times

What's not included

  • Airfare to and from the trip
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Drinks
  • Hotel city taxes
  • Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own. You will find all information needed with our team support in your roadbook.

Informations & Recommendations

Arrive to the Bari Airport. From the airport you have a few options to get to the start of the tour.

  • Direct bus connection from Bari Airport to Matera (about 75m).
  • From the airport of Bari to the Central station of Bari: There is a local train every 30m that connects the airport to the Central Station (about 15m); then you can take a train from the Central Station of Bari to Matera (about 90m).
  • From Bari Airport to Bari Central Station with Shuttle Bus Tempesta  (About 30m, departures every hour); then train from Bari Central Station to Matera.

Tour rates

Contact our tour consultants for more information and an exact rate based upon your travel dates.

Price from* & per person Double occupancy Single supplement
(traveling with a group)
Standard 1515 € 250 €
Upgraded 2050 € 590 €
*Rates vary according to hotel availability and specific start date. Please contact us for triple room rates

Accessories

Accessories
Guidance Application Included
Biking Roadbook Included
Travelbook Included

Bikes available

Bikes available Options per person
Road Bike Rental
    Standard 100 €
Electric assist bike
    Standard 100 €
Gravel Bike Rental
    Standard 100 €



Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee.

Services available

Services available
Cancelation insurance 6%

Bot scann is mandatory