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Apulia - inn to inn cycling trip
- Stay in small inns, B&B and small family run hotels
- Lecce, the stunning Baroque city of southern Italy
- Sleep in a real Trullo house in the UNESCO heritage town of Alberobello.
- Beautiful sandy beaches and turquoise sea
- Visit breathtaking caves
- Wonderful landscapes of ancient olive groves, vineyards and jagged coastlines
- Authentic country towns and villages: Polignano a Mare, Ostuni, Gallipoli, Otranto with quiet roads
- Friendly people and great traditional Apulian culinary specialties
From: 635 €
Tripcode: ITSB011
2.5 Comfort
Level 1 - EN:
Simple accommodation, often with multiple rooms like huts, cottages or guesthouses. Sometimes with bunk beds and often with shared bathrooms. All camping trips fall into this category.
Level 1 - EN:
Simple accommodation, often with multiple rooms like huts, cottages or guesthouses. Sometimes with bunk beds and often with shared bathrooms. All camping trips fall into this category.
Level 2:
Simple to good inns, small family hotels, B&Bs and agriturismo (farmsteads), generaly with private bathroom. Often chosen for their excellent location in relation to the itinerary.
Level 2:
Simple to good inns, small family hotels, B&Bs and agriturismo (farmsteads), generaly with private bathroom. Often chosen for their excellent location in relation to the itinerary.
Level 2:
Simple to good inns, small family hotels, B&Bs and agriturismo (farmsteads), generaly with private bathroom. Often chosen for their excellent location in relation to the itinerary.
Level 3:
Good hotels, inns, B&B, agriturismo (farmstead) with ensuite private bathroom, often wel located and serving good meals
Level 3:
Good hotels, inns, B&B, agriturismo (farmstead) with ensuite private bathroom, often wel located and serving good meals
Level 3:
Good hotels, inns, B&B, agriturismo (farmstead) with ensuite private bathroom, often wel located and serving good meals
Level 4:
Special hotel with excellent food, ambiance and service. Accommodations with a special touch.
Level 4:
Special hotel with excellent food, ambiance and service. Accommodations with a special touch.
Level 4:
Special hotel with excellent food, ambiance and service. Accommodations with a special touch.
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1.5 Difficulty
Level 1:
Walking levels:
Trips with short walks of generally three to four hours (excluding breaks) and/or optional day excursions; flat or slightly hilly terrain using well kept paths.
Cycling levels:
Easy biking in nearly flat landscape; also possible for people with little or no bicycle experience. The daily distances are approximately 30-50 km in general. Bicycles with up to 3 gears can do the job. All our adult rental bikes have at least 21 gears.
Level 1:
Walking levels:
Trips with short walks of generally three to four hours (excluding breaks) and/or optional day excursions; flat or slightly hilly terrain using well kept paths.
Cycling levels:
Easy biking in nearly flat landscape; also possible for people with little or no bicycle experience. The daily distances are approximately 30-50 km in general. Bicycles with up to 3 gears can do the job. All our adult rental bikes have at least 21 gears.
Level 2:
Walking levels:
Moderate day walks, 4-5 hours per day (excluding breaks) on hilly to mountainous areas using well kept, sometimes stony paths.
Cycling levels:
Biking on gently undulating terrain, you may encounter short climbs from time to time. The daily distances vary between 30 and 65 km. A bicycle with minimum 7 gears will do. All our rental bikes have at least 21 gears.
Level 2:
Walking levels:
Moderate day walks, 4-5 hours per day (excluding breaks) on hilly to mountainous areas using well kept, sometimes stony paths.
Cycling levels:
Biking on gently undulating terrain, you may encounter short climbs from time to time. The daily distances vary between 30 and 65 km. A bicycle with minimum 7 gears will do. All our rental bikes have at least 21 gears.
Level 2:
Walking levels:
Moderate day walks, 4-5 hours per day (excluding breaks) on hilly to mountainous areas using well kept, sometimes stony paths.
Cycling levels:
Biking on gently undulating terrain, you may encounter short climbs from time to time. The daily distances vary between 30 and 65 km. A bicycle with minimum 7 gears will do. All our rental bikes have at least 21 gears.
Level 3:
Walking levels:
Trips with strenuous day walks or trekking in mountainous areas. 5 to 7 hours walking maximum per day, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for one night; height differences between 500 & 1000 m. per day
Cycling levels:
Strenuous biking trips in areas where you cannot avoid steep slopes. Some bicycle experience in short trips is needed. The daily distances range from 30 up to 75 km.
Level 3:
Walking levels:
Trips with strenuous day walks or trekking in mountainous areas. 5 to 7 hours walking maximum per day, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for one night; height differences between 500 & 1000 m. per day
Cycling levels:
Strenuous biking trips in areas where you cannot avoid steep slopes. Some bicycle experience in short trips is needed. The daily distances range from 30 up to 75 km.
Level 3:
Walking levels:
Trips with strenuous day walks or trekking in mountainous areas. 5 to 7 hours walking maximum per day, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for one night; height differences between 500 & 1000 m. per day
Cycling levels:
Strenuous biking trips in areas where you cannot avoid steep slopes. Some bicycle experience in short trips is needed. The daily distances range from 30 up to 75 km.
Level 4:
Walking levels:
Trips with heavy excursions in high mountains, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for several nights. 6 to 8 hours maximum per day; height differences up to 1200 meters per day; only for participants with an excellent condition and without fear of heights.
Cycling levels:
Serious and strenuous biking trips in mountainous area, the slopes are longer and/or steeper than at the previous category. Requires a good physical condition, a broad cycling experience and adequate mountain climbing bicycle. The daily distances range between 30 and 80 km.
Level 4:
Walking levels:
Trips with heavy excursions in high mountains, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for several nights. 6 to 8 hours maximum per day; height differences up to 1200 meters per day; only for participants with an excellent condition and without fear of heights.
Cycling levels:
Serious and strenuous biking trips in mountainous area, the slopes are longer and/or steeper than at the previous category. Requires a good physical condition, a broad cycling experience and adequate mountain climbing bicycle. The daily distances range between 30 and 80 km.
Level 4:
Walking levels:
Trips with heavy excursions in high mountains, sometimes carrying backpacks with stuff for several nights. 6 to 8 hours maximum per day; height differences up to 1200 meters per day; only for participants with an excellent condition and without fear of heights.
Cycling levels:
Serious and strenuous biking trips in mountainous area, the slopes are longer and/or steeper than at the previous category. Requires a good physical condition, a broad cycling experience and adequate mountain climbing bicycle. The daily distances range between 30 and 80 km.
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Duration: 8 days
Details
Riding The Heel of Italy
The Apulia region of south-eastern Italy has quite a story to tell, having been in hands of the Greeks, the Romans, the Ottomans, the Spaniards and other colourful peoples, all of which have contributed to the region's dialects, flavorful cuisine, and distinctive architecture. This is Italy's best kept secret for outstanding cycling. From Otranto, crossroads of culture, to the whitewashed houses of Ostuni reaching towards the rich blue sea; from the memorable conical roofs of the trulli in Alberobello to the enchanting white sand beaches near Gallipoli, enjoy superlative rides through sparsely inhabited ancient olive groves, Mediterranean mache and invigorating coastal roads with views that will make you fall in love.
Itinerary
Expand itinerary Collapse itineraryDay 1: Arrive in Polignano a Mare in Apulia
Arrive in the glorious town of Polignano a Mare overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Get lost in the labyrinth of streets amidst whitewashed houses. Visit the main church, known as Chiesa Madre, and the stunningly unique squares of San Benedetto and dell'Orologio. Marvel at the Marchesale Arch, an original entrance to the old town, where the cycling itinerary commences.
Challenge: Travelling to Apulia
Villages along the way: Polignano a Mare
Day 2: Ride from Polignano a Mare to Alberobello home of the Trulli
Ride inland through the distinctive Apulican landscape, including a visit to the enchanting caves of Castellana. Continue on to the Trulli capital of the world: Alberobello. The trulli, or white washed stone houses with conical roofs, are exceptionally intriguing ... and comfortable, as you will experience tonight when you sleep in one. The 1,000 trulli surrounding you will make you truly feel transported into another world.
Challenge: 33.5 km
Villages along the way: Castellana Caves & ALberobello
Day 3: Ride from Alberobello to Whitewashed Ostuni
Ride through the historically rich "Murgia" area, among olive groves, southern vineyards and classic "Masserie" farmhouses. Pass the Medieval town of Cisternino with its brilliant DOC wine, then carry on to Ostuni, a stellar town on the Adriatic Sea. You enter the heart of the city, pass its protective walls and gaze upon the fifteenth-century Gothic cathedral. A majestic moment to treasure.
Challenge: 48.3 km
Villages along the way: Cisternino & Ostuni
Day 4: Ride from Copertino to fantastic Gallipoli
Begin the day with a long transfer to Copertino in the Salento area, and then it's you and nature. Pedal across flat countryside, an occasional olive tree, pine tree forests and sand dunes. The natural morphing of the scenery is spectacular, especially as this area is very sparsely inhabited. Pass ancient seaside watchtowers as you approach the Medieval fishing town of Gallipoli, bursting with life.
Challenge: 41 km
Villages along the way: Copertino & Gallipoli
Day 5: Ride along beautiful white sandy beaches, from Gallipoli to S. M. di Leuca
A coastal road takes you to the southernmost point of Puglia, which divides the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. But first, take a swim in the turquoise waters of paradise, at the Torre del Pizzo beach and lie upon the fine white sands. Then continue south to Santa Maria di Leuca, a magnificent village of fantastic beaches and wacky, wild, colourful mansions.
Challenge: 51.5 km
Villages along the way: Santa Maria di Leuca
Day 6: Ride the spectacular high coastal road from S. M . di Leuca to Otranto
Revel in the sea breezes as you ride along the high coastal route, winding your way along the gentle, undulating ridges of the cliffs. Phenomenal views will make you feel part of a National Geographic cycling special feature. Stop for a glimpse of the spectacular cave, the Grotta Zinzulusa, and then on to Otranto, a Greek-come-Roman port town, frequented by merchants and thrill seekers.
Challenge: 50.5 km and some hills
Villages along the way: Zinzulusa Caves & Otranto
Day 7: Ride along the Alimini lakes from Otranto to beautiful Lecce
Today you visit the Alimini Lakes which run parallel to the sea. Cycle your way through the countryside of Greek Salento, where traces of the former colonies are still present in the dialect, cuisine and bright style of architecture. The whites shine against the euphoric blue of the sea. Arrive in Lecce, a brilliant city full of wonderful palaces and a treasure which will mesmerize you.
Challenge: 45 km
Villages along the way: Alimini lakes & Lecce
Day 8: Arrivederci Lecce !
The trip and our services end after breakfast. You may have booked extra nights in Lecce or a transfer to the airport.
Villages along the way: Lecce
Practical info
Included
- CHARME VERSION: 5 nights in 4* hotels, 1 night in a 3* superior hotel, 1 night in a Trullo house B&B VERSION: 3 nights in 3* equivalent B&B, 1 night in a Trullo house, 3 nights in 3* hotel. In all the accommodation the rooms have private bathrooms and breakfast is included each morning
- 7 nights on Bed & Breakfast basis
- Luggage transfer from day 2 to day 7
- 24-hour telephone assistance, just a phone call away
- Minibus transfer (you + luggage + bike from Ostuni to Copertino)
- Detailed maps and road book in English
Not Included:
- Flights and public transportation
- Travel insurance
- Admissions and entrance fees of any kind
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, phone calls, extra transfers etc.
- Any items that have not been specifically mentioned in this program
Optional Services:
- 21 speed hybrid bike hire, helmet (puncture repair kit, pump, map holder, front and side bag, lock)
- Arrival and/or departure transfers to and from Bari or Brindisi airports
- Guided tour of Lecce with a local private city guide
Extra Overnight:
Additional night/s in Polignano or Lecce or any other destination in Italy
Getting there and away:
The best airports to fly into are Bari or Brindisi. You can also fly to Naples and take a train from Naples to Polignano.
From the airport take the bus to the Train station and a train to Polignano.
From Polignano train station,you can walk to the hotel (only 600mt from train station) or call the hotel which will come pick you up. Transfer to be paid locally. There is no taxi service in the town of Polignano.
Dogs on the trip:
Dogs are not allowed on this trip.
Reviews
Start: Polignano a Mare
Finish: Lecce
Dates & prices
Trip availability: Starting every Saturday from 31st March to 30th June & 1st September to 10th November
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 635 €/person |
| twin room: | 685 €/person |
| double room: | 685 €/person |
| single room: | 840 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1450 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 640 €/person |
| twin room: | 695 €/person |
| double room: | 695 €/person |
| single room: | 850 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1460 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 660 €/person |
| twin room: | 710 €/person |
| double room: | 710 €/person |
| single room: | 855 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1465 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 675 €/person |
| twin room: | 725 €/person |
| double room: | 725 €/person |
| single room: | 865 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1475 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 690 €/person |
| twin room: | 745 €/person |
| double room: | 745 €/person |
| single room: | 885 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1495 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 715 €/person |
| twin room: | 780 €/person |
| double room: | 780 €/person |
| single room: | 905 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1515 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 795 €/person |
| twin room: | 855 €/person |
| double room: | 855 €/person |
| single room: | 1080 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1690 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 690 €/person |
| twin room: | 745 €/person |
| double room: | 745 €/person |
| single room: | 885 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1495 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 660 €/person |
| twin room: | 710 €/person |
| double room: | 710 €/person |
| single room: | 855 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1465 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 640 €/person |
| twin room: | 695 €/person |
| double room: | 695 €/person |
| single room: | 850 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1460 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| triple room: | 635 €/person |
| twin room: | 685 €/person |
| double room: | 685 €/person |
| single room: | 840 €/person |
| solo single room: | 1450 €/person |
Other prices
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| hybrid bike rental, bags and odometer included: | 105 €/person |
| Dates of the trip | Price |
|---|---|
| Bike helmet: | 7 €/person |