Puglia and Basilicata

The region is relatively unspoiled, breathtakingly beautiful and rich with archaeological sites recalling the region’s strategic importance to the ancient Romans and Greeks. White washed villages are nestled against the hillside vineyards; olive groves and wheat fields decorate the valleys. Puglia is Italy’s largest producer of vegetables, olive oil and wine. Fresh ingredients and legendary cooking skills combine to provide visitors with a first class culinary experience. Our tour begins with the Sassi of Matera in Basilicata, old dwellings and rock churches carved centuries ago out of the steep cliffs. Today Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Matera we’ll bike through the Itria Valley, also called the Valley of the Trulloes, where you’ll find thousands of “trulli”, limestone dwellings that are the architectural symbol of Puglia. We’ll cycle on to unique Alberobello in Puglia, capital of the “trulli” and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. From here we’ll pedal to Martina Franca, a real Baroque gem.

All around you there is an explosion of color, olive trees and ancient farmhouses. Next is a visit to Castellaneta and its beautiful beaches on the Ionian Sea. From here we circle back to the mysterious land of Basilicata, through the rolling hills of the Bradano Valley and past the Lake of San Giuliano. We’ll reach Matera to enjoy a free afternoon of shopping and your farewell dinner. You’ll certainly enjoy your stay in this fascinating and picturesque region well known for the hospitality of its friendly people. Puglia’s warm, dry, Mediterranean climate is ideal for walking and biking in spring and fall.

Highlights

• Cycling through the ancient district of Matera to the impressive sassi carved into the rock walls of a ravine
• Exploring the fairytale streets of Alberobello with its many trulli, characteristic of the region
• Enjoying the delicious vegetables, olive oil, and wine of Italy’s most productive region
• Overnighting on cozy, charming agriturismo family farms