Day 1 | Arrive at Gravina

Head to Gravina where you'll have your welcome meeting. It’s a good chance to ask any questions you may have about the week ahead. If time allows we recommend exploring the historic centre of Gravina. Highlights of the city, the birthplace of Pope Benedetto XIII, include the main Basilica, the many rock-cut churches, including the sanctuary of Madonna della Stella and the amazing Ponte Aquedotto Bridge spanning the local gorge.

Meals Included: None

Day 2 | Gravina to Matera | Distance: 22 miles (36km)

Heading out on your bikes this morning you’ll ride through la Murgia, as you cycle through a picturesque landscape of open fields and countryside. Your ride today will end with a climb up to the awe-inspiring Matera, perched on a rocky outcrop. Matera, known as the ‘City of Caves’ is a wonderful place to explore. As the distance today is a little shorter than other days, you should have some extra time for exploring. You could either set off a bit later, and explore Gravina a bit more in the morning, or head straight for Matera and spend some more time there. 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 | Matera to Alberobello | Distance: 43 miles (70km)

Today you’ll leave Matera, following quiet country roads through glorious Apulian countryside. The route is surrounded by olive trees before you reach the famous area of the Trulli houses. Look out for authentic houses scattered along the route, as you make your way towards Alberobello: the Trulli capital of the world. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best preserved of its type in Europe. The 1,000 Trulli houses, many of which are still lived in, will transport you to an entirely different world. 

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 4 | Alberobello Loop | Distance: 31 miles (50km)

Today you’ll follow a circular route, leading you through the distinctive Apulian landscape. The Valle d‘Itria, boasts quiet country roads and cycle paths, that offer relaxed and varied cycling. Your route will lead you through Putignano and Castellana, where you’ll have the option to visit an impressive underground cave system (payable locally). You’ll once again be spending the night in Alberobello, where you can indulge in some delicious local cuisine, as well as visit the impressive basilica.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 | Alberobello to Ostuni | Distance: 31 miles (50km)

Today you’ll be riding through the historically-rich Murgia area along quiet roads surrounded by olive groves, vineyards and traditional masserie (typical farmhouses of Puglia). You’ll pass through the medieval towns of Cisternino and Locorotondo, both of which are worth jumping off your bikes to explore their centres. Cisternino has a spectacular viewpoint, from where you can see the lush Valle d‘Itria. Your destination for today is Ostuni, where you’ll spend the evening. Known as ‘La Citta Bianca‘, or the White City, Ostuni sits majestically on a hill, offering spectacular views out to the Adriatic. Spend the evening exploring Ostuni’s narrow streets within its protective walls, stopping to admire the Gothic, 15th-century cathedral.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 6 | Rest Day

Today is a day off the bikes, and we’d recommend visiting Lecce! A short ride will take you to Ostuni train station where you can leave your bikes and board the train (tickets not included). Upon arrival into Lecce, you’ll discover a brilliant city full of wonderful palaces and treasures, that will leave you mesmerised. Lecce is known as the “Florence of the South” with magnificent Baroque churches and squares to be discovered. It also offers a range of wine bars and restaurants, serving up fresh, local produce. Jumping on the train back to Ostuni, you should have plenty of time to spend another relaxing evening in this beautiful city.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 | Ostuni to Polignano a Mare | Distance: 33 miles (53km)

Today you’ll make your way to the coast! Leaving Ostuni behind, you’ll head for the Adriatic, enjoying a mix of countryside and coastal riding. En route, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the ancient town of Egnazia - the best Roman ruins in the region. Following the coastline, you’ll arrive in Monopoli, with its charming mix of Norman, Venetian-Byzantine, and Arabic architecture. Monopoli is a great place to stop for a spot of lunch, and perhaps take a dip in the crystal-clear Adriatic. From Monopoli it’s about 6 miles/10 kms to your destination, as you ride north-west until you reach Polignano a Mare. Polignano is a vibrant fishing village perched on cliffs and surrounded by clear blue waters. Visit the statue of Domenico Modugno, enjoy a spritz in the historic town centre, or take one last dip in the warm waters! This is the ideal location to enjoy your last evening in Puglia.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 | Departure from Polignano

Arrivederci Puglia! Time to head to the airport for flights home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Child prices and single supplements are available on request. Please speak to our Activities Experts on 020 7471 7760 for more details.