Puglia Biking - The Land Between Two Seas
-
Tour Code:
TUR-00380
-
Type:
Small Group
-
Duration: 8 days -
Departs from:
Puglia
-
Meeting Place:
Bari or Polignano a Mare
Overview
This cycling tour of the Puglia region is one of our most popular cycling tours in Italy and for very good reason! Puglia in south eastern Italy encompasses the heel of Italy's boot and is bordered by the sea on two sides (the Adriatic Sea in the east and the Ionian Sea to the southeast). The region is characterised by endless olive groves, long fields of grain and vineyards and makes for some of the best cycling territory in all of Italy.
The tour includes beautiful accommodations, excellent bikes, fantastic meals including wine and it is lead by expert guides who know this region better than anyone out there.
The tour begins in Polignano a Mare which is just south of Bari and concludes in Gallipoli near Brindisi.
We can help you make arrangements to get you to the area and also create some fantastic pre and post say options for you and your family or friends in the area.
Puglia is one of our favorite regions in Italy and we are sure you will be delighted with the high level of service and fantastic flavours you will encounter in this spectacular region.
Itinerary
Where we Visit : Puglia, | Meeting Location : Bari or Polignano a Mare
Where we Visit : Puglia,
Where we Visit : Puglia,
We have the choice of two rides today; we can opt for the easy flat ride along the Adriatic and explore the coastal ruins of Egnazia or we can ride a more undulating route into Locorotondo and Cisternino which marks the boundary to the Valley of Itria. Either way, the trulli are last seen. The origin of the Trulli is uncertain, yet it is felt that the cone shape is of Eastern inspiration and may have been adopted in Puglia because it is easy to construct. Others claim that religious or magical reasons have led to their adoption as religious and astrological symbols are often painted on the roofs. As we ride within the Valley of Itria we get a chance to examine these theories up close as we enjoy one bellavista after another before a 10-km downhill cruise through pine lead to the blue green waters of the Adriatic Sea. A quick dip is the ideal way to clean up for a delicious seafood lunch. During the completely flat coastal option we stop at the significant ruinous site of Egnazia where archeologists have uncovered remnants of early Greek and Roman civilizations and then meet up with those who wish for a more challenge. Both rides then lead to Ostuni via the ancient olive groves that are sure to mesmerize the viewer and leave one with the feeling that any minute one of them will speak; as if from the "Land of OZ". Whitewashed Ostuni, a town of pre-historic origin, has survived the ages and retains the most typical of Apulian architecture in accordance with its historic growth. It is felt that through the ages it has succeeded in staying in perfect balance with the surrounding countryside. From the moment we approach from miles away, to the moment we enter the historic town center; it would be hard to argue against this observation. Lodging: A beautiful 4-star hotel in the historic center. Dinner: Osteria within the historic Center's Ancient Walls
Where we Visit : Puglia,
From Ostuni we ride across the long flat valley filled with vineyards and towns whose roots go back to Puglia's original inhabitants of 3000 B.C., the Messapi. We visit Oria, once capital of the Messapi then a major Roman trading center on the Apian Way, and evolving into an important Jewish colony. Explore the triangular castle and an old town center loaded with architectural attractions as we cross the plains to the incomparable, Lecce. Lecce has often been described as a Baroque Jewel, and jewel it is. This lively town offers us a chance to enjoy an active evening within the unrivalled architecture of soft pink local stone used to build everything from the piazzas and town gates to the numerous churches that adorn this city of unparalleled beauty. During our first day off the bike we enjoy an extensive private city tour that not only examines the fine Baroque structure, but stops by the renowned papier-mâché studios. You are then free to explore more of the city on your own or cycle to the sea for a comfortable swim. The following day we ride past the ruins of a castle from the Messapi period and through the pine forest surrounding the Alimini Lakes. The Alimini Grande to the north is in contact with the Adriatic and is therefore salt water, while the Alimini Piccolo connected on the south end is nourished by a spring and is therefore fresh water. The landscape around both is tranquil and covered with vegetation typical to swampland-it's interesting if you can see the differences in the nature of the two lakes where gray mullet and eel swim around the reeds. Once we reach Otranto we take time to explore. Otranto was the main port on the southern Adriatic under Byzantine rule, but today the ferry service for Corfu is the only surviving activity connected with the sea. On land, Otranto is a fairytale; medieval, whitewashed town featuring an impressive Aragonese castle and a beautiful Byzantine Cathedral with an impressive floor covered in colorful mosaic. The picture perfect waterfront & great outdoors market makes for a timely rest before we take on our 2 hill climbs into a region of unmatched coastal beauty. Lodgings: 2 nights in a 4-star Patria Palace in medieval center of Lecce & one night at a 4-star hotel on sea with coastal views Dinner: One free night & one night at an outstanding family-run trattoria and one night at 4-star hotel along the sea.
Where we Visit : Puglia,
Our ride continues through spectacular territory.
Where we Visit : Puglia,
Ride continues south through beautiful scenery.
Where we Visit : Puglia,
Where we Visit : Puglia,
This morning after a buffet breakfast at the hotel it will be time to say Arrivaderci!
We can get you anywhere you need to go in Italy so just ask our team how and we can offer you some fantastic suggestions to extend the rest of your stay.
team@italygroupspecialists.com or contact your travel agent.
Inclusions/Exclusions
Tour Highlights and What's Included
What's Included
All 4 & 5-star accommodation in town centers and 2 nights in your very own Trullo- All breakfast, Five full course dinners and 1 picnic lunch
- Olive Oil Producer & Winery Visits tasting & tour
- Fully Supported bike rides with 2 guides
- Private City Tour of Alberobello & Lecce
- BIKE RENTAL of quality upright 27-speed touring bikes equipped with handlebar bags (your clipless pedals can be mounted
- but remember to bring your shoes, bike gloves and shorts.) Quality road bikes are available upon request at an additional charge
- Route note, maps and marked routes
- All tour transfers including meet/depart, van support and luggage transfer
- Multi-lingual guide(s)
- All entrance fees mentioned in itinerary
What's Not Included
What's Not Included
Airfare- Beverages
- Trip insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal items
- Guide tips.
Pricing & Availability
Please contact us today by either phone or email for assistance with this
booking.
Email : team@italyvacationspecialists.com
Toll Free : 1-866-779-2565
Map
Quick Enquiry Form
Search Your Tour
PRIVATE TOURS
Buy 2 And Get 50% Off Your 3rd Tour
Client Testimonials
-
Jesse, There are no words to describe the fabulous time we had in Italy. Everything went as you promised. Absolutely no problems! The venues were fabulous. The guides were punctual and helpful. It couldn't have worked out better. You and your staff deserve high praise for the quality and efficiency of your work. BTW, Guiseppe was an absolute delight. We enjoyed his informative and effervescent per ... [Read More]
- Jo Ann West -
I traveled with JoAnn West through your services, guided by Giuseppe, in July of this year. What a wonderful experience; your service is really top notch! If I return to Italy for a tour, I will absolutely use your services again and recommend you to my friends! ... [Read More]
- Lucretia Brower -
We're home now from the most amazing trip to Italy! I can't thank you enough for your efforts and coordination of what was without question the finest vacations I've been on to date. ... [Read More]
- Carol Carson -
In September of 2018 I brought a group of 12 from Venice to Sicily and organized all of my services with the Italy Vacation Specialists. Being a travel agent and in the business, I know how complicated organizing travel arrangements can be in Italy and the IVS team took a huge burden off of me! I would like to start of by saying "THANK YOU" both for the amazing job you did on our trip. There was n ... [Read More]
- Ann Brownell, KHM Travel Group -
This company really knows their stuff and recommended our family to stay longer in each location. We didn't listen to them, but wished we had in every single place we went. They recommended Sestri Levante over the Cinque Terre which was our favourite destination on our entire trip. We visited Rome where we stayed in the outstanding Hotel Locorno where they know the owner there, like in every place ... [Read More]
- Sean & Veet Chapman, CGA -
I have traveled to Italy 2x with the IVS for my own pleasure trips and 2x for business with IVS. These guys really pay attention and make your trip go like clockwork. Italy is nuts, just saying! There are so many rules and restrictions now, so we did not want to drive ourselves. Having traveled with them many times and done business on several occasions, most definitely USE this company. They k ... [Read More]
- JoAnne Beaudoin, Retired Nurse -
As a travel agent, but also a traveler to Italy, thee is no other company I would recommend than the Italy Vacation Specialists. Not only do they really care about what they are doing, they also really know Italy and try to educate many people about ways they can best see the country and not fall into tourist traps. I have been on 4 trips with the IVS team, firstly when they did my first 2 tri ... [Read More]
- Laura Chomiak, Travel Agent -
I am a travel agent from Lebanon and have organized several group tours as well as individual tours of Italy with Italy Vacation Specialists. I highly recommend them as one of the very best tour operators in Italy to work with, given their professionalism and work ethic which I feel is second-to-none in the travel industry. All of the staff, the guides, the coaches and even the meals we enjoyed we ... [Read More]
- Nicole Haddad, Lebanese Travel Agent -
The trip was great we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country. ... [Read More]
- Leon and Michele -
I went to high school with the owner of the company who organized my honeymoon for myself and my now wife from Tokyo. We spent three short weeks seeing Piedmont and experiencing wine paradise there, then heading to Nice in France with our private driver and flying to Rome where honestly 4 days is NOT enough. They keep saying to spend more time and we could not agree more! You need to spend more ti ... [Read More]
- Robin and Kumi Bruun, Tokyo Japan
Incredible Experiences in Italy for Exceptional Prices
Private Tour of Volterra and Her Incredible
Recommended Tours
The Kingdom of the Sun - South of Italy - Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria and Sicily - Private Individu
Calabria and the Cedri Riviera Fully Private Escorted Experience including Cooking and Exclusive Din
Our Featured Properties
-
-
Villa
Villa Bianca
Italy,Puglia,Polignano a Mare
-
-
Villa
Villa Mimma Puglia
Italy,Puglia
-
-
Villa
Villa Alimini
Italy,Puglia,Otranto
-
-
Villa
Casa Deva
Italy,Puglia,Bari
Our Recent Blog
Our Top Picks for Family Vacations to Italy
Discover Italy's best family-friendly destinations, from Sorrento's charming playgrounds to Minori's scenic Lemon Trails. With breathtaking beaches, rich history, and welcoming towns, every stop promises unforgettable moments. Pack your bags and create lasting memories in Italy's most enchanting locales ...
View Post
Italy: The Ultimate Destination for a Magical Christmas Celebration
If you're looking for a Christmas experience that combines history, culture, delicious food, and a whole lot of holiday cheer, Italy is the place to be! Italy has a knack for making everything feel a little more magical during the holiday season. Picture yourself wandering through charming markets, sipping hot cocoa, and nibbling on festive treats ...
View Post
Top 10 reasons why Italy is a top Winter & Ski Destination
The crisp winter air fills your lungs as you glide down the pristine slopes of the Italian Alps, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas that seem to stretch into eternity. Each turn on the snow-laden trails reveals a new perspective of Italy's enchanting winter landscape, where the charm of cozy mountain villages meets ...
View PostFor Customized Holidays or Expert Advice for travel in Italy or the Mediterranean, Please get in touc with your travel agent or have them
-
Direct In Italy: +39 375 823 5314
-
Toll Free: 1-866-779-2565