Bike Tour: Puglia & Basilicata: Matera, Alberobello & the coast - 7 days

The ancient town of the 'sassi' (stone dwellings) originates from a prehistoric troglodyte settlement that is suspected to be one of the first human settlements in Italy. Roaming through its maze of narrow allies, up and down the stone stairs you will find yourself transported to a distant past. Many of the houses you encounter are really only caverns, and the streets in some parts of the 'sassi' are often located on the rooftops of other houses.

After the short steep descent out of Matera, the rest of the way till Gioia del Colle is on very secondary country roads with hardly any traffic, wheat fields and small patches of woods you will find many of the roads lined by the typical dry stone walls of the area. Gioia del Colle has an imposing Svevian castle (worth a short visit).

Challenge: 36 km

Cycle to your next destination - Alberobello. On tiny hidden back roads bordered by stone walls we cycle through the quiet countryside passing by 'masserie' (fortified farmsteads), grain fields, olive groves, and encounter many 'trulli' as you near Alberobello. These curious dry stone huts with their cone shaped roofs scattered throughout the countryside seem to belong to the world of elves.

Challenge: 33 km

A beautiful ride through gently rolling farm land on very secondary country lanes lined with stone walls. Ancient trully farm houses and centuries old Olive trees are everywhere to see. In the area around Locorotondo there are many vineyards and wine tasting is at the Cantina sociale. Stop to vist Locorotondo and Cisternino, two wonderful whitewashed old towns bursting with character and lunch is at a traditional olive mill.

Challenge: 50 km

You cycle along a panoramic coastal road that is a natural balcony overlooking the beautiful blue waters of the Adriatic, then descend on winding roads, feeling the sea air to arrive at the town of Conversano. The coastal planes are cultivated with a variety of crops and dotted with elegant 'masserie' farmsteads. Monopoli - a bustling fishing town, with splendid white-washed houses, narrow alleyways and our charming accommodation positioned in the heart of the old town.

Challenge: 32 km

Mostly a coastal ride passing by the Roman archeological site of Egnazia then continuing on to the lighthouse at the tip of the bay in Torre Canne and returning the way you came, passing the San Domenico gold course.The route is compleatly flat on narrow country lanes lined with stone walls, ancient and inmense olive trees and vegetable gardens. There are several nice swiming spots along the way so bring your swiming things!

Challenge: 44 km 

Trip ends after breakfast unless you have other services booked with us.