Cycling Puglia & Matera

Days 1-2  Matera
Fly to Bari and transfer to Matera. The next day, meet your fellow travellers and tour leader for the start your exciting cycling tour.

Day 3  Matera to Alberobello
Matera is a remarkable place and has been continuously inhabited for 9,000 years. Cycle past the ancient sassi cave houses taking in the unique architecture which makes this town so special. Continue cycling on quiet roads among the picturesque Apulian countryside towards Alberobello. Pass the lovely towns of Noci and Gioia del Colle before reaching Alberobello where you will see the famous conical trulli houses.

Day 4  Alberobello to Ostuni
Today is a fairly leisurely ride as you pedal though the lush Valle d’Itria to the hilltop village of Ostuni. The route is rolling throughout but much shorter than yesterday’s ride. Enjoy the views as you pass the wine town of Locorotondo and Cisternino. In the afternoon, reach Ostuni, known as the ‘White City’ thanks to the dazzling white-washed buildings.

Day 5  Ostuni to Avetrana  
Following tranquil country lanes, today’s route takes you via Francavilla Fontand and Oria. Oria is famous for its 13th Century castle and delightful historic centre of cobbled streets. Continue through idyllic countryside to tonight’s accommodation at a traditional masseria farmhouse. The masseria is still a working farm and most of the produce they serve is grown here. Try some of the family’s organic olive oil before dinner is served.

Day 6  Avetrana to Gallipoli
Cycle towards the Ionian Coast and the beautiful town of Gallipoli, an old town situated on a rocky island just off the mainland. The town has many churches and narrow alleys and if the weather permits, there is plenty of time to swim in the crystal clear Ionian Sea near Port Cesaero.

Day 7  Gallipoli to Otranto
Head across the peninsula to the Adriatic Sea and the ancient Messapian town of Otranto, the easternmost point in Italy. There is plenty of time to explore the picturesque town this afternoon before dinner.

Day 8  Otranto to Lecce
The last day of cycling follows the shoreline through peaceful olive groves to Lecce, the baroque masterpiece of southern Italy. Today’s ride is relatively short and easy, and there is time to stop for a last swim (weather permitting) in Torre dell’Orso, a lovely bay surrounded by limestone cliffs. In Lecce, there will be free time to explore the historic centre before a farewell dinner.

Day 9  Fly home
Transfer to Brindisi airport for your flight home.