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3
moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 7 nights in mainly 3 star hotels
Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts

8 Days£1085GBP

Overview

Trip Code: PUG

Trip highlights


  • Cycling along the Ionian and Adriatic coasts
  • Viewing typical trulli in Alberobello and the surrounding countryside
  • Discovering the ancient cities of Gallipoli and Leece
  • Enjoying the local delicacies including olive oil, fresh vegetables and wine
  • Exploring the Puglia region which is largely unspoiled by tourism

Puglia in south eastern Italy encompasses the heel of Italy's boot and is bordered by the sea on two sides (the Adriatic Sea in the east and the Ionian Sea to the southeast). The region is characterised by endless olive groves, long fields of grain and vineyards. This cycle tour delves into this region of scenic beauty, which is still unspoiled and retains a rich cultural legacy. From Alberobello where you can marvel at the traditional Trulli houses, the route follows both the Ionian and Adriatic coasts and spans the distances between ancient cities. Ending in Lecce, often referred to as the Florence of the south, this is an ideal holiday for those seeking the less known pockets of Italy with all the historic highlights. Staying in atmospheric hotels, including a typical Trulli in Alberobello (subject to availability), ensures you gain a full appreciation of this special region.

Countries:

Italy

Starting Point:

Alberobello

Finishing Point:

Lecce


Alberobello is known for its trulli, which were generally constructed as dwellings or storehouses. It is situated upon two hills which were once separated by a riverbed. On the eastern hill is the new town, with modern architectural features, and on the western hill, the trulli are lined up in an urban conglomeration subdivided into two districts: Monti and Aia Piccola. Both districts are World Heritage sites. On arrival please make your way to your accommodation. Please note we cannot guarantee you will stay in a Trullo this evening (it's subject to availability). The alternative is a comfortable hotel in walking distance of the main centre.

Meals:  Nil

A fabulous cycle through winding country lanes, past trulli, vineyards and olive groves to Ostuni, an architectural jewel. Crossing the last part of Murge, you will pass through the towns of Martina Franca, Locorotondo and Cisternino before arriving at the white city of Ostuni. The most challenging part is between Locorotondo and Cisternino. Elevation +460m/1509ft

Meals:  B

The cycle route takes you away from Ostuni and the Murge hills and on to the Salento plain, characterized by green and red colours, given by its olive trees and its red soil. Along the way you will have the chance to visit Oria, with its beautiful historical centre and the castle built by emperor Federico II. Today’s destination is the Manduria area, the capital of the Primitivo grapes. Elevation +270m/889ft

Meals:  B

From now on you will head towards the seaside, which will accompany your bike tour between ancient coastal towers and fine sand. You will now reach Porto Cesareo, where we highly recommend a good fish-based lunch. Rolling south, our destination will be the Greek Kale Polis, today’s Gallipoli, with one of the most beautiful historic centres of Salento. Enjoy a stroll in its streets and the views of the sea that surrounds it. Gallipoli is an ancient Greek city, a fishing town divided into two parts: the new town and the old town, connected by a 17th century bridge to the mainland. Elevation +70m/230ft

Meals:  B

Today you'll continue cycling along the coast to Santa Maria di Leuca. It is the easiest day of the tour, completely on paved roads and mostly flat with some short ups and downs at the end of the stage. Santa Maria di Leuca was named by ancient Greek sailors: they said it was enlightened by the sun and therefore called it "Leukos", meaning white. Today it is a famous seaside resort and fishing area. There is ample opportunity to swim and relax at the beach in the afternoon. Elevation +50m/164ft

Meals:  B

Another superb day of cycling as you follow the Adriatic coast northwards. The most challenging stretches are a short climb to leave town and a continuous but regular slope after Santa Cesaria Terme. Following the coast road, you'll pass by small towns, impressive grottoes, inlets for swimming and small cafes and soon arrive at Otranto, the most eastern point of Italy. Here you can visit the beautiful Cathedral and the great Aragonese Castle. Elevation +460m/1509ft

Meals:  B

Today is an easy stage. Leave lovely Otranto to discover the Alimini Lakes nature reserve, the old hunting ground of the Swabians and the Aragonese. With their unique Mediterranean scrub the area is an important habitat for migratory species such as white storks, flamingoes and cranes. Continue to Lecce which, thanks to its Baroque style, has earned the nickname "Florence of the South". You can appreciate the rich sculpted motifs from the 17th century made with the local stone while exploring its old town, enclosed by what is left of ancient walls. Elevation +100m/328ft

Meals:  B

The trip concludes after breakfast. Lecce is well connected by train with the airports of Bari and Brindisi, or we can assist with booking extra nights' accommodation if you'd like to linger.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 7 breakfasts - varied buffet breakfasts are served in each hotel
  • 7 nights accommodation in mainly 3 star hotels and a typical trullo in Alberobello (subject to availability) on a twin share basis with private facilities (upgrade to mainly 4 star hotels - supplement applies)
  • Digital information pack including route notes, maps and navigational App (can be used offline) with GPS Tracks (smartphone required)
  • Luggage transfer - 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • 27 gear bicycle rental with puncture resistant tyres, pannier, gel saddle and helmet (e-bike available on request - supplement applies)
  • Bike insurance against theft and damage
  • Emergency Hotline

  • Travel to Alberobello and from Lecce
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Guide - this is a self guided cycle
  • A supplement will apply if you book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Excess luggage
  • We recommend bringing a handlebar phone holder – to follow the route more easily using the app / GPX files
  • A pre-tour extension in Matera is available on request, 1 or 2 nights accommodation with breakfast and transfers: Bari airport to Matera and Matera to Alberobello. Supplement applies, please ask your consultant.
  • An arrival transfer from Bari or Brindisi airport to Alberobello is available. A departure transfer from Lecce to Bari or Brindisi is also available. Supplement applies, please ask your consultant for details.
  • Local hotel taxes, allow approximately €10-15 - payable directly to the hotel
  • Items of a personal nature

Bike information


Suitability

moderate

3

This trip involves 6 days cycling with daily distances between 45 and 70km/28 and 43.5mi. The route is mostly in the lowlands, although it is sometimes hilly. You will cycle almost always on asphalt roads. Traffic is almost non-existent in Puglia, except during the high season. The route includes very beautiful stretches along the coast. It requires a reasonable level of fitness to fully participate in this adventure. You need only carry your camera and water bottle. Your luggage is transported for you between hotels. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.


Departure dates

Weekly on Saturday 23 Mar to 20 Jul and 31 Aug to 2 Nov, and Sundays 5 May to 2 June and 1 Sep to 22 Sep

Notes

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
Note:
High season is from 29 Jun to 20 Jul and 31 Aug to 13 Sep, Mid season is from 4 May to 28 Jun and 14 Sep to 11 Oct, supplement applies
Note:
Due to logistics this trip is not suitable for solo travellers. It can be possible for single travellers to book on a date which already has bookings. Contact our team for more details. It is not always possible to stay in a trullo in Alberobello. If there is no availability we will book you in a 3 star hotel a short walk from the historic centre. Departures on other dates are available for 5 or more people.
Note:
Matera Extension is available for either 1 or 2 nights pre tour. This option includes 1 or 2 nights at a 3 Star hotel in the heart of Matera's famous Sassi, transfer from Bari Airport to Matera and a transfer from Matera to Alberobello on day 1 of your cycle tour.
Note:
Upgrade to mainly 4* hotels with some 3* hotels - supplement applies

Priceper person from

£1085GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • Mainly 4 * hotel upgrade supplementGBP£90
  • Electric Bike SupplementGBP£130
  • Single Supplement (Cat A & B)GBP£300
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.