Puglia, from Sassi to Salento

DURATION 8 days/7 nights

PRICE FROM 1802 €

COLLECTION Cycling - Standard

DIFFICULTY

DESTINATION Italy

SEASONALITY This tour starts any day of the year.

CATEGORY Group tours to europe , European tours for seniors , Singles tours europe , Electric Assist Bike Tours

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HIGHLIGHTS

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PROGRAM

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BIKES

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DETAILS

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RATES

Highlights

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.

To see

Embark on a journey through the captivating landscapes of Puglia, Italy, starting with Matera's ancient "Sassi" district and the unique charm of Alberobello's UNESCO-listed trulli dwellings from the mid-14th century. Discover the historic allure of Ostuni, known as "the White" city, and Oria with its famous castle. Continue to the coastal wonders of Gallipoli, the mosaic-adorned Otranto Cathedral, and finally, the cultural richness of Lecce, creating an unforgettable exploration of Puglia's diverse treasures.

Gastronomy

Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa, Puccia, Frisella, Burrata, Pasticciotto

Wine

Primitivo, Negroamaro, Fiano, Verdeca

Feedbacks

5/5

Karyn

5/5

| Traveled in May 2023

We loved it - the routes were wonderful, all the towns we stopped in were charming, and loved all the hotels. Everyone we came in contact with was extremely friendly and helpful. Thank you for arranging and we can't wait to travel with Discover ... France again.Karyn

PROGRAM

Hotel version

Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal for active vacations , located in easy walking distance to downtowns, restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic accomodations over large chains. Standard : 3* or 4* hotels. If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another establishment equivalent in category.

Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal for active vacations , located in easy walking distance to downtowns, restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic accomodations over large chains. Upgraded : 4* or 5* hotels. If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another establishment equivalent in category.

J-1

Arrival in Matera

Arrive at the hotel on your own schedule. Use the time at your disposal for visiting the city of the Sassi (suspected to be among the earliest human settlements in Italy) a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight stay. (If you will arrive late in the evening, we suggest an extra night in this wonderful and unique city).

Upon request: guided walking visit of the Sassi (ancient Matera districts) and the Park of Rupestrian Churches. We suggest a dinner (on your own) in a typical Sassi restaurant carved out in the Rock.

Note: 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) - Bus Pugliairbus.
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) - Ferrovie Appulo Lucane
From Bari Airport to Bari Central Station with Shuttle Bus Tempesta (About 30m, departures every hour) Shuttle Bus Tempesta; then train from Bari Central Station to Matera.

Accommodation : Hotel Casino Ridola**** - Matera show

Accommodation : Palazzo Gattini***** - Matera show

Included : Emergency support,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-2

From Matera to Alberobello

You will pass through the small villages of Gioia del Colle and Noci and on to Alberobello, the capital town of Trulloes and a UNESCO’s world heritage site. Accommodation in a Trullo house or a restored farmhouse.

Distance : 69km (43mi).

Elevation: 650m.

Accommodation : Trulli Holiday*** - Alberobello show

Accommodation : Le Alcove Luxury Nei Trulli***** - Alberobello show

Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

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J-3

From Alberobello to Ostuni

Crossing the Itria Valley, with stops in the characteristic Locorotondo and Cisternino, you will reach Ostuni, which is reputed an architectural jewel, and is commonly referred to as “the White Town” for its white walls and its typically white-painted architecture.

Distance : 37km (22mi).

Elevation: 350m.

Accommodation : Ostuni Palace**** - Ostuni show

Accommodation : La Sommita Relais***** - Ostuni show

Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

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J-4

From Ostuni to Avetrana

Cycling south through the quiet country lanes to the charming town of Francavilla Fontana and on to Oria, famous for its 13th Century’s Castle and delightful historic centre. You will reach a Masseria, a typical Apulian converted farmhouse, your accommodation for the night.

Distance: 63km (39mi).

Elevation: 250m.

Accommodation : Masseria Bosco**** - Avetrana show

Accommodation : Vinilia Wine Resort**** - Manduria show

Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

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J-5

From Avetrana to Gallipoli

Today your route will pass through Porto Selvaggio and skirt the Ionian coast to reach Gallipoli, derived from the Greek word kalépolis meaning “beautiful city.” Have a picnic on a sandy beach and try to swim if the weather is nice.

Distance: 58km (36mi).

Elevation: 250m.

Accommodation : Al Pescatore Hotel & Restaurant**** - Gallipoli show

Accommodation : Palazzo Del Corso***** - Gallipoli show

Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

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J-6

From Gallipoli to Otranto

Cycling to Otranto, the route will take you to the wildest and eastern rocky coast of Southern Italy. The sun and the atmosphere is unique in a place where Turkish and Greeks landed centuries ago. Otranto has a wonderful centre with walls and a castle. A masterpiece is the mysterious mosaic, in the Romanesque Cathedral.

Distance: 71km (44mi).

Elevation: 500m.

Accommodation : Hotel Palazzo de Mori***** - Otranto show

Accommodation : Hotel Palazzo Papaleo***** - Otranto show

Included : Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

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J-7

From Otranto to Lecce

Last stage will take you to Lecce, the Baroque town with wonderful façade of buildings and churches. Taste a puccia (local bread filled with salami or vegetables) or a pasticciotto (delicious pastry), and enjoy shopping and walking in the city centre.

Distance: 54 km (33mi)

Elevation 300m

Accommodation : Palazzo dei Dondoli**** - Lecce show

Accommodation : Risorgimento Resort***** - Lecce show

Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

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J-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. (Depart on your own).

Included :

CUSTOMIZED
TOUR

This is a catalog tour, it can be modified as you wish : add extra nights, extra activities (wine tastings, visits, transfers...).

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

Arrival at 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 1h15).
From the airport of Bari to the Central station of Bari: There is a local train every 30min that connects the airport to the Central Station (about 15min); then you can take a train from the Central Station of Bari to Matera (about 1h30).
From Bari Airport to Bari Central Station with Shuttle Bus Tempesta (about 30min, departures every hour); then train from Bari Central Station to Matera.

Departure from Lecce to Bari or Brindisi Airports.
Take a train from Lecce to the Bari Central Station (about 2 hours) and then a train to Bari airport (about 20min). Or take a bus from Lecce to Bari airport in about 2h10m.
From Lecce you can take the train (central station of Lecce - about 30min) or a bus to the airport of Brindisi (about 40min).

BIKES

included

Hybrid Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

VELO DE VILLE (or equivalent)

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.

Included with your bike rental :

• 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.

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."

optional

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

VELO DE VILLE (or equivalent)

We have a wide range of e-bike. Most of them have a Bosch engine with 400W and 500W battery. We also have Shimano and Yamaha engine bikes, all equipped with disc brakes, Schwalbe tires and comfortable saddles. Using the right assistance you can ride up to 150 km a day.

Included with your bike rental :

• a Big saddle bag & a Handlebar bag containing : Helmet / Lock / pump / Spare tube / Toolkit

• 1 water bottle

• Odometer

• Bike charger

• 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 : we will be happy to install them on your bike.

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."

optional

Road Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

BH RS1 3.5 DIZ (or equivalent)

With the RS1, BH aims to appeal to a broad spectrum of cyclists. Long-distance, fast-paced enthusiasts who like climbs as much as flat land, asphalt as much as bad roads...

You fight the wind with every pedal stroke. You don't have to fight anymore, you just have to enjoy it. We cyclists are the only ones who know the feeling of performance, power and efficiency you get when physics and equipment become one. Addiction to speed.

Included with your bike rental :

• Helmet

• Odometer

• Pump

• 1 new bottle

• lock

• Spare Tubes / Toolkit / Tire levers

• Map holder

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."

optional

Gravel Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

Gravel BH (or equivalent)

You're looking for a bike with a comfortable geometry that allows you to ride long distances over a variety of terrains. Suitable for different types of ground: gravel, asphalt, earth, paths and wide tracks

Included with your bike rental :

• Helmet / Lock / pump / Spare tube / Toolkit

• 1 water bottle

• Odometer

• 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 : we will be happy to install them on your bike.

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."

Details

Included

ACCOMODATIONS

- 7 nights of accommodation in charming hotels with private shower and/or bath

MEALS

- Daily breakfast at each hotel

BIKES

- Hybrid bike rental included

GEAR

- Complimentary Discover France Gear (including water bottle, drawstring bag)
- Guidance Application (phone not provided)

SUPPORT

- Orientation in person with our local guide
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
- Concierge service available to assist you for your requests during your trip (taxi transfer, restaurant, activities...)

TRANSFER

- All luggage transfers

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
Multirisk travel insurance

Rates

Tour rates vary based on hotel availability and specific start date

PRICE FROM / PER PERSON

STANDARD HOTEL ACCOMODATION

UPGRADED HOTEL ACCOMODATION

Double occupancy *

1802 €

2112 €

Single supplement **

300 €

Solo traveler ***

1826 €

2136 €

* Please contact us for triple hotel rates. ** Traveling with a group. *** Traveling alone.

Upgrade your bike

From / Per person

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard

315€

Road Bike - Standard

315€

Gravel Bike - Standard

240€

CANCELLATION INSURANCE

Cancellation insurance 6%

STANDARD HOTEL ACCOMODATION FROM

UPGRADED HOTEL ACCOMODATION FROM

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Tour of Salento, Puglia

The UNESCO Sites of Puglia and Basilicata Cycling Tour

Hotel Casino Ridola**** - Matera

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.
https://hotelridolamatera.it/en/

Palazzo Gattini***** - Matera

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.
http://www.palazzoviceconte.it/it/home/

Trulli Holiday*** - Alberobello

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.
https://www.trulliholiday.com/en/

Le Alcove Luxury Nei Trulli***** - Alberobello

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...
http://www.lealcove.it/en/servizi/

Ostuni Palace**** - Ostuni

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.
http://www.ostunipalace.com/NEW/

La Sommita Relais***** - Ostuni

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.
https://www.lasommita.it/en/index.html

Masseria Bosco**** - Avetrana

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.
http://masseriabosco.it/en/

Vinilia Wine Resort**** - Manduria

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.
https://www.viniliaresort.com/

Al Pescatore Hotel & Restaurant**** - Gallipoli

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.
http://www.alpescatoregallipoli.com/

Palazzo Del Corso***** - Gallipoli

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.
https://www.hotelpalazzodelcorso.it

Hotel Palazzo de Mori***** - Otranto

https://www.palazzodemori.it/

Hotel Palazzo Papaleo***** - Otranto

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.
https://www.hotelpalazzopapaleo.com/

Palazzo dei Dondoli**** - Lecce

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.
http://www.palazzodeidondoli.it/

Risorgimento Resort***** - Lecce

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.
http://www.risorgimentoresort.it/

Puglia, from Sassi to Salento

Highlights

To see

Gastronomy

Wine

Feedbacks

PROGRAM

Arrival in Matera

From Matera to Alberobello

From Alberobello to Ostuni

From Ostuni to Avetrana

From Avetrana to Gallipoli

From Gallipoli to Otranto

From Otranto to Lecce

Departure from Lecce

CUSTOMIZEDTOUR

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

BIKES

Hybrid Bike - Standard

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard

Road Bike - Standard

Gravel Bike - Standard

Details

Included

ACCOMODATIONS

MEALS

BIKES

GEAR

SUPPORT

TRANSFER

Not included

Other questions?

Rates

Tour rates vary based on hotel availability and specific start date

Upgrade your bike

CANCELLATION INSURANCE

STANDARD HOTEL ACCOMODATION FROM

UPGRADED HOTEL ACCOMODATION FROM

You will also like

Tour of Salento, Puglia

The UNESCO Sites of Puglia and Basilicata Cycling Tour

Hotel Casino Ridola**** - Matera

Palazzo Gattini***** - Matera

Trulli Holiday*** - Alberobello

Le Alcove Luxury Nei Trulli***** - Alberobello

Ostuni Palace**** - Ostuni

La Sommita Relais***** - Ostuni

Masseria Bosco**** - Avetrana

Vinilia Wine Resort**** - Manduria

Al Pescatore Hotel & Restaurant**** - Gallipoli

Palazzo Del Corso***** - Gallipoli

Hotel Palazzo de Mori***** - Otranto

Hotel Palazzo Papaleo***** - Otranto

Palazzo dei Dondoli**** - Lecce

Risorgimento Resort***** - Lecce

NEWSLETTER

NEWSLETTER

CUSTOMIZED
TOUR