This self-guided, ten-night cycling holiday explores Italy's beautiful, sun-drenched Puglia region with its vibrant fishing villages, sandy beaches and beautiful, rolling hills, all above the mesmerising blue of the Adriatic Sea.
Puglia offers a wonderful contrast of landscapes, from the fertile farming hamlets, vineyards and orchards of its interior to its dramatic, rocky coastline. Your holiday begins in the picturesque coastal town of Monopoli, from where you follow the coast north, passing white sandy beaches and secluded coves with wonderful opportunities for seafood lunches along the way. Head inland and you'll be blown away by a rich landscape of vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards and fields of tomatoes and peppers alive with colour. Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello with its unique trulli houses - emblematic of the region - and the glistening, whitewashed village of Ostuni. After a transfer to Acaya you'll discover the delights of the stunning Salento coast, taking in Puglia's easternmost and southernmost point - an amazing sight - and the Baroque masterpiece that is Lecce, renowned for its stunning C18 architecture and known as the 'Florence of the South'.
You'll stay in an excellent variety of accommodation on this holiday, including four **** or ***** hotels and an authentic trullo house in Alberobello! In Conversano your elegant boutique hotel is just a short walk from the mediaeval streets and Romanesque cathedral of this historic town; in Otranto your base is a stylish hotel boasting stunning views over the old town and harbour from roof sun terrace ; while in Lecce you stay in the heart of the beautiful old town in sumptuous ***** hotel, close to the Roman amphitheatre and Baroque palazzi, with the hotel's roof garden offering one of the best views there is over the city.
Arrive at your hotel in Monopoli. After a welcome briefing there's time to discover the town before dinner. (Staying at Albergo Diffuso, Breakfast only, evening meal at a local restaurant)
Today you follow a beautiful coastal route from Monopoli towards the sleepy, inland town of Conversano. On the way you'll have chance to visit the charming, colourful fishing village of Polignano a Mare which is beautifully located, clinging to the limestone cliffs. It's then onward through the pretty village of San Vito, with its tiny harbour full of multi-coloured boats, before arriving in Conversano. (Staying at Relais Corte Altavilla, Breakfast only)
Today you'll cycle through the Valle d'Itria, a valley of rolling hills and wooded slopes where the beautiful scent of wild mint and herbs fills the air. Take a break in the small towns of Putignano and Noci, with their typical whitewashed houses and narrow alleyways. It's then off to UNESCO-recognised Alberobello, filled with the quirky Trulli houses . (Staying at Trullidea, Breakfast only)
Take some time to explore the narrow streets of historic Alberobello. Browse the quirky souvenir shops or sample the local cuisine in one of the bars or restaurants; perhaps learn about the town's history at the Museo del Territorio. If you fancy cycling, a circular route (45km/28.5mi - route notes provided) takes you into the heart of the Itria Valley and spectacular Locorotondo, with its 360 degree views of the valley. The town of Martina Franca lies a little further ahead - continue on to discover its stunning Baroque architecture and palazzi. (Staying at Trullidea, Breakfast only)
This morning you'll follow winding country lanes before a long downhill stretch takes you towards Capitolo (enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic coastline on the way), ending in a beautiful collection of almond and olive orchards, vineyards and vividly coloured fields full of peppers and tomatoes. (Staying at Masseria Salamina, Half Board)
The choice is yours today. You could head to the local beach or simply spend time unwinding by the hotel pool. If you fancy something a bit more challenging, we provide route notes for a circular cycle ride (48km/30mi) which takes you to Ostuni with its dazzling whitewashed houses sitting beautifully above olive groves and vineyards. (Staying at Masseria Salamina, Half Board)
Follow an easy route to the Adriatic coast, passing the vibrant fishing village of Savelletri, a perfect stop for a tasty lunch or traditional Italian coffee. You'll cycle past the archaeological ruins of Egnazia, the site of a Greco-Roman town which dates back to 4BC, before reaching the pretty seaside town of Monopolil. Tonight you can choose from a wonderful selection of restaurants in the old town. (Staying at Albergo Diffuso, Breakfast only)
We transfer you and your bike to Acaya, from where you'll cycle along the stunning Salento coast to Otranto, taking in ancient olive groves and fishing villages en route. You stay at the 4 star Corte di Nettuno by the harbour in Otranto, close to the old town where there are numerous options for dinner. (Staying at Hotel Corte di Nettuno, Breakfast only)
A free day in Otranto today, or an optional challenging day's cycling (55km/34.5mi) which takes you up and down along the coast south and west of Otranto, where you'll see the easternmost and southernmost point of Puglia - a spectacular sight! You can also visit the Castel di Salve winery on your way to Santa Maria di Leuca, which is known as De Finibus Terrae, 'the end of the earth', before taking a shuttle back to the hotel. (Staying at Hotel Corte di Nettuno, Breakfast only)
Today you head to Lecce on mostly flat terrain amidst endless olive orchards and menhirs. Tonight you'll stay at the stylish Risorgimento Resort (5*) , just a few steps from some of Lecce's Baroque masterpieces. (Staying at Resort Hotel Risorgimento, Breakfast only)
Please note: This tour has been given a 1 Bike + rating based on ascents/descents and distance; the cycling may feel harder over the hotter months.
During your holiday you stay at the following hotels. If you'd like to extend your time at any of these or, if you'd like to enhance your stay with an upgraded room, just let us know at the time of booking. If you'd like to keep your bikes with you for any extra nights we can arrange this for you for just £25 per adult per day and £18 per child per day.
To find out more call our sales team on 1-800-267-3347, use our live webchat or email usa@exodustravels.com
Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.
NEARBY:
Room upgrades: Suite.
Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.
Room upgrades: Junior Suite .
The Junior Suite has charming furniture with a living room and panoramic view.
Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.
A unique and authentic experience staying in a trulli, a traditional 15th Century Apulian stone building with conical roof.
Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.
NEARBY:
Room upgrades: Farmhouse Suite, Double Room Superior, Junior Suite or Junior Suite Deluxe .
The farm House suites are spacious and comfortable, pproximately 50m2, composed of a double room, living room with single bed, wide bathroom with bathtub, and a kitchen. They are located in the south-east wing, of more recent construction but always adjacent to the Masseria, all with a wonderful view and with their own outdoor space. The Superior Room is in the Manor wing of the Masseria, on the 1st floor, the owner's house since the 17C, it has valuable antique furniture, with marble bathroom, it has a hall and an indoor balcony with view. The Junior Suite is in the Manor wing of the Masseria, on the 1st floor, the owner's house since the 17C, it has valuable antique furniture, with marble bathroom and Jacuzzi. Deluxe Junior Suite is in the Manor wing of the Masseria, on the 1st floor, the owner's house since the 17C, it has valuable antique furniture, with marble bathroom, it has a hall and a private balcony with view. The Superior Suite is in the Manor wing of the Masseria, on the 1st floor, the owner's house since the 17C, it has valuable antique furniture, a living room with fireplace and balcony, and marble bathroom with Jacuzzi and showerbox.
Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.
NEARBY:
Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.
NEARBY:
Room upgrades: Deluxe Double, Executive, Junior Suite or Garden Suite.
Transfers included from Bari airport at 14:45, and back to Brindisi airport at 09:30.
Please call our sales team on 1-800-267-3347 or email usa@exodustravels.com to arrange connecting flights.
Here at Headwater we thrive on feedback from our customers. It's the only way we can continue to develop, and where necessary improve, our services and ensure our holidays continue to be the best they can be. However, as this is a relatively new holiday, we don't yet have any customer reviews available.
You can be confident that our pricing includes all the standard requirements of your holiday and many additional extras. Always ensure that you are comparing like for like when booking your holiday. Find out about The Headwater Price Promise to ensure you're getting the very best value for money.
For further details, or to check availability, speak to our sales team on 1-800-267-3347 or complete our holiday enquiry form (we'll contact you at a time that's most convenient for you).
To enquire about this holiday, or for further information, call our sales team on 1-800-267-3347 or complete our holiday enquiry form.
| Mar 2019 | Tour only | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 13th Mar | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 16th Mar | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 18th Mar | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 20th Mar | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 23rd Mar | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 25th Mar | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 27th Mar | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 30th Mar | US$3165 | Check availability |
| Apr 2019 | Tour only | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Apr | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 3rd Apr | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 6th Apr | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 8th Apr | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 10th Apr | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 13th Apr | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 15th Apr | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 17th Apr | US$3195 | Check availability |
| 20th Apr | US$3195 | Check availability |
| 22nd Apr | US$3195 | Check availability |
| 24th Apr | US$3195 | Check availability |
| 27th Apr | US$3195 | Check availability |
| 29th Apr | US$3195 | Check availability |
| May 2019 | Tour only | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 1st May | US$3355 | Check availability |
| 4th May | US$3355 | Check availability |
| 6th May | US$3355 | Check availability |
| 8th May | US$3355 | Check availability |
| 11th May | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 13th May | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 15th May | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 18th May | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 20th May | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 22nd May | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 25th May | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 27th May | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 29th May | US$3385 | Check availability |
| Jun 2019 | Tour only | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Jun | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 3rd Jun | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 5th Jun | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 8th Jun | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 10th Jun | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 12th Jun | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 15th Jun | US$3385 | Check availability |
| Aug 2019 | Tour only | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 5th Aug | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 24th Aug | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 26th Aug | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 28th Aug | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 31st Aug | US$3385 | Check availability |
| Sep 2019 | Tour only | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd Sep | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 4th Sep | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 7th Sep | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 9th Sep | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 11th Sep | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 14th Sep | US$3385 | Check availability |
| 16th Sep | US$3335 | Check availability |
| 18th Sep | US$3335 | Check availability |
| 21st Sep | US$3335 | Check availability |
| 23rd Sep | US$3335 | Check availability |
| 25th Sep | US$3335 | Check availability |
| 28th Sep | US$3335 | Check availability |
| 30th Sep | US$3335 | Check availability |
| Oct 2019 | Tour only | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 5th Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 7th Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 9th Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 12th Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 14th Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 16th Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 19th Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 21st Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 23rd Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
| 26th Oct | US$3165 | Check availability |
The prices quoted for each individual departure supercede those published in our current brochures. Air prices are subject to change and we advise early booking to obtain the best prices. Please see our Planning your holiday and What's included in the price? pages for additional information.
Children
This holiday is unsuitable for children.
Holiday type
Self-guided cycling Managed locally by Headwater appointed agent.
Departures
selected Mons, Weds & Sats from 13th Mar 2019 to 26th Oct 2019, for 10 nights.
Meals
All continental breakfasts and 3 evening meals included
Tandems
It is possible to hire tandem bikes for this holiday at a supplement of £305 per bike. As these are available on a first come first served basis, we recommend early booking to avoid disappointment.
Other details
Airport transfers are subject to at least 2 people (in total) booked on each departure.
Tour only
Transfers included from Bari airport at 14:45, and back to Brindisi airport at 09:30.
For further details, or to check availability, speak to our sales team on 1-800-267-3347 or complete our holiday enquiry form (we'll contact you at a time that's most convenient for you).
To enquire about this holiday, or for further information, call our sales team on 1-800-267-3347 or complete our holiday enquiry form.
Due to the tailor-made nature of our holidays, we need a little more information in order for us to check availability for . Simply complete the form below and a member of our sales team will contact you (when it's most convenient for you) to provide availability information, travel options and an accurate price. Of course there's no obligation, but if you do wish to proceed with a booking they will be on-hand to assist you throughout the process.
Alternatively, you can call our sales team on 1-800-267-3347 to discuss your requirements in more detail.
We've been creating high-quality relaxed activity holidays since 1985 and our wealth of experience means we're able to build the perfect tailor-made tour for you. Our 'Gold Trusted' rating on Feefo, the independent review site, underlines our exceptional levels of customer service, and our ATOL bonding and ABTA membership guarantees your holiday is safe with us.
