Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
15.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
Optional
tandem hire
In the heart of the Mediterranean lies Puglia, a unique landscape sandwiched between the Adriatic and Ionian seas. We explore the very best of this captivating region and begin by cycling through two towns that both possess UNESCO world heritage sites. The region is mainly flat, which lends itself perfectly to the self-guided cycle ahead; filled with spectacular views; beautiful coastline and mouth-watering cuisine.
This holiday is offered with a choice of mainly 3 Star, or mainly 4 Star accommodation. The 3 Star accommodation is listed on the hotels page.
Make your way to Matera, 2019's European Capital of Culture, and one of the oldest inhabited human settlements in the world.
You stay at Hotel Belvedere.
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Located in the Sasso Caveoso, and just a few steps from the Sassi di Matera UNESCO site. Il Belvedere Hotel is a unique location for a perfect view of the Sassi and is close to the typical cave churches, on the main access street to the town. Hotel Il Belvedere is an elegant and typical Hotel in Matera, the rooms are elegant and unique, most of them are built within the cave and each one presents original tufa wall.
On leaving Matera, ride past its beautiful UNESCO recognised honey-coloured stone houses. Called 'Sassi', these dwellings have been housing residents for the past 9,000 years. From one famous world heritage site to another, head towards Alberobello, where you can admire its distinctive trulli houses made from local limestone.
You stay at Trullidea Resort.
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A unique and authentic experience staying in a trullo, a traditional 15th century Apulian stone building with conical roof.
Each trullo house is made up of a double bedroom, small bathroom with shower and living area with sofa and small kitchenette.
The trulli are located in the centre of historic Alberobello, a UNESCO world heritage site, within walking distance of cafes, restaurants and shops.
Cycle through the lush Valle d'Itria, passing more white-tipped trulli houses on the way. Boasting beautiful coastal views, the route takes you through the famous wine town of Locorotondo, regarded as one of Italy's most stunning villages. After sampling some of the local sparkling white wine, continue to the white city of Ostuni - so called for the dazzling effect of its whitewashed houses.
You stay at Hotel Sant'Eligio Relais.
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The origins of Relais Sant'Eligio date back to the first half of 1500 when the Queen Bona Sforza d'Aragona imposed all coastal cities from Naples and Otranto to have a resting station. The Resting Station of Camposada in Ostuni was built along the ancient 'Via del Procaccia', the route running along the ancient walls of the White Town. Between 1630 and 1810, it became the Home of the Zevallos dukes as proved by several decorative friezes and ornaments.
The name 'Sant'Eligio' derives from the patron saint of the farriers working in the stables of 'Camposada' Resting Station. The ancient emblem highlights the evocative written in Latin language: QUISQUIS HUC VENIT HUC REDIET (if you come once, you will necessarily come back again)
The rooms at Hotel Relais Sant'Eligio are elegant and comfortable.
Take a train to the fascinating Baroque town of Lecce. From here cycle deep into the Salentinian countryside before approaching the Ionian coast. Here you will reach Gallipolli, known as the 'Ionian Pearl' with its Old Town situated on a rocky island.
You stay at Hotel Joly Park.
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Located in the centre of Gallipoli and only a short walk from Corso Roma, Hotel Joli Park is modern and comfortable.
The rooms are well equipped and contemporary. The hotels offers guests a private shuttle service to take you to and from the private beach “Lido delle Sirene”.
Cycle towards the most southerly point of Salento at Santa Maria di Leuca, where the crystal waters of the Ionian and Adriatic Sea meet. This village is home to one of the most important lighthouses in Italy, as well as numerous villas built at the turn of the century.
You stay at Hotel Terminal.
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Hotel Terminal is nestled among the eclectic villas, on the central nineteenth-century seafront dedicated to Cristoforo Colombo, the heart of the town, with a beautiful view on Punta Ristola and Punta Melis.
The hotel has its own private beach that can be reached by a picturesque underpass. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped.
Pedal along the south coast of the Adriatic Sea, stopping off at the famous Grotta Zinzulusa and the thermal baths of Santa Cesarea Terme. Your final destination is Otranto, the most eastern point of Italy with a stunning cathedral and Aragonese castle.
You stay at Hotel Albania.
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Located in the centre of Otranto, Hotel Albania owes its name to the majestic Albanian mountains which on a clear day offers guests breathtaking views and are visible from the hotel terrace.
Rooms are comfortable and modern.
Follow the shoreline through olive groves to the Baroque metropolis of Lecce. Known as the 'Florence of the South', Lecce is home to over 30 churches, an amphitheatre and a Roman theatre dating back to Emperor Augustus.
You stay at Eos Hotel.
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Situated just outside of the historic town of Lecce, Hotel Eos is a modern hotel with modern facilities.
Rooms are contemporary and fully furnished.
We do not currently have departure dates and prices available on-line. The season may have ended for this tour, or we are still in the process of adding these details to our website.
Please contact our sales team on 01606 720199 to for further details or to discuss alternavie trip options.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
15.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
Optional
tandem hire
