Italy : Puglia

Cycling the Heel of Italy - Matera to Lecce

Trip code: C11PI 4.6 (10 reviews)

Self-guided cycling

11 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Flights
available

14.0Kg CO2e

Headwater
Navigation App

Optional
e-bike hire

SUMMARY

  • Matera - UNESCO World Heritage Site; visit the cave houses
  • Alberobello's fairy-tale trulli houses
  • Olive groves, towering limestone cliffs and Roman amphitheatres
  • The white city of Ostuni, the majestic castle of Otranto and Baroque Lecce
  • Based on our popular 7 night, Cycling the Heel of Italy - Alberobello to Lecce

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • 11 nights accommodation
  • All breakfasts and 2 evening meals
  • Bike fitting and briefing at the start of your holiday
  • Headwater navigation app
  • Bike hire included
  • Luggage transfers between hotels

TRIP DESCRIPTION

Starting in Matera, the city of 'Sassi' and a UNESCO world heritage site, and through the local canyons, the 'gravine', you will enter Puglia, a unique landscape sandwiched between the Adriatic and Ionian seas. We explore the very best of this captivating region from Murgia to Salento.

Your daily cycle routes allow you to explore a series of architectural and natural wonders, sites of immense historical and cultural interest, and of course, to be tempted by local culinary specialties! Cycle through the Murghe plateau, the Salento plain and along the coast through a landscape of ancient olive groves and vineyards and past traditional masserie, coastal watchtowers and splendid Baroque towns.

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. Stays are in the UNESCO listed towns of Matera and Alberobello; Putignano, known for its ancient carnival; white-washed Ostuni; Galipolli, where the historic centre is on an island; Santa Maria de Leuca, where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet; Otranto, known as the gateway to the Orient and Lecce, known as the 'Florence of the South'. Stay also in Castellaneta and Avetrana where evening meals are included.

Terrain

95% of the cycling is on asphalt roads, with 5% on strada bianca. The routes generally keep to quieter, secondary roads although you should expect more traffic in the towns.

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DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

 

Day 1: Arrive in Matera

Make your way to Matera, one of the oldest inhabited human settlements in the world.

You stay at Hotel Belvedere.

hotel details

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Hotel Belvedere, Matera

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Shops
Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Aircon


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.

Day 2: Free day in Matera

Explore the UNESCO-listed Sassi of Matera; a complex of houses built into the natural caves of the Murgia.

You stay at Hotel Belvedere.

hotel details

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Hotel Belvedere, Matera

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Shops
Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Aircon


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.

Day 3: Matera to Castellaneta (62km/38.5mi)

Your first cycling day takes you through a landscape of wheat fields and wide panoramas. Visit the town of Laterza, famous for its tasty bakery products and majolica pottery. Continue to Castellaneta, a small city perched on the edge of a ravine.

elevation

You stay at Le Grotte di Sileno.

hotel details

 equivalent

Le Grotte di Sileno, Castellaneta

HOTEL WEBSITE      

WiFi
Aircon


Le Grotte di Sileno is an agriturismo, set on a farm that produces olive oil and wine. The agriturismo has only recently been completed and rooms are spacious.

Day 4: Castellaneta to Putignano (55km/34.2mi)

Today you will cycle in the Terra delle Gravine Natural Park, amongst deep canyons, carved by rivers over millions of years. Leaving the ravines you will soon discover the iconic Puglia scenery: dry stone walls, old masserie (fortified stansteads) and trulli, rural houses with a conic roof typical to the area, built without any cement or mortar. Reach Putignano, known for its ancient carnival.

elevation

You stay at B&B Santo Stefano.

hotel details

 equivalent

B&B Santo Stefano, Putignano

TRIP ADVISOR

Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV


Located in the centre of Putignano, B&B Santo Stefano rooms have a balcony, fan and are decorated with stone vaulted ceilings.

Day 5: Putignano to Alberobello (36km/22.4mi)

Leaving the medieval centre of Putignano, cycle in the lush countryside to reach Castellana Caves. It is the main karst site in the South of Italy and a visit is recommended.After the caves, continue along the rolling lanes of the countryside where olive, almond, apricot and cherry trees grow. Continue to the UNESCO heritage site of Alberobello, the world capital of Trulli.

elevation

You stay at Trullidea.

hotel details

 equivalent

Trullidea, Alberobello

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Hairdryer
WiFi


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.

Day 6: Alberobello to Ostuni (49km/30.4mi)

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.

elevation

You stay at Relais Sant'Eligio.

hotel details

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Relais Sant'Eligio, Ostuni

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Shops
Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Aircon


Situated a stone's throw from Ostuni's Old Town, the Relais Sant'Eligio dates back to the first half of the 1500s when Queen Bona Sforza d'Aragona imposed all coastal cities from Naples to Otranto to have a resting station. The Resting Station of Camposada - as it was then - has welcomed many couriers and royal officials from yesteryear, whilst today, each of the 22 elegant and individually decorated rooms offer every comfort for the 21st century guest.


Day 7: Ostuni to Avetrana (65km/40.4mi)

Cycle through the colourful Salentinian countryside, characterized by olive groves and red soil towards the medieval towns of Oria and Manduria with their authentic historic centres.

elevation

You stay at Masseria Strazzati.

hotel details

 equivalent

Masseria Strazzati, Avetrana

HOTEL WEBSITE      


Masseria Strazzati is an old farm estate and is set within 100 hectares of olive groves. Your evening meal is taken at the Masseria Bosco where the pool can also be used.

Day 8: Avetrana to Gallipoli (61km/37.9mi)

Head to Torre Colimena on the Ionian Sea, then follow the coast alongside a series of beaches and the old coastal towers of Salento. Reach Gallipoli, known as the 'Ionian Pearl' with its Old Town situated on a rocky island. Take time to wander the narrow lanes of the historic centre to discover its baroque cathedral, elegant palazzi and enticing restaurants.

elevation

You stay at Hotel Joly Park.

hotel details

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Hotel Joly Park, Gallipoli

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Mastercard
Visa
Pool
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Aircon
Safe


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”.

Day 9: Gallipoli to Santa Maria di Leuca (52km/32.3mi)

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.

elevation

You stay at Hotel Terminal.

hotel details

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Hotel Terminal, Leuca

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Bank
Cash machine
Mastercard
Visa
AmEx
Pool
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Aircon
Safe


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.

Day 10: Santa Maria di Leuca to Otranto (53km/32.9mi)

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.

elevation

You stay at Hotel Albania.

hotel details

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Hotel Albania, Otranto

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Aircon
Safe


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.

Day 11: Otranto to Lecce (55km/34.2mi)

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.

elevation

You stay at Eos Hotel.

hotel details

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Eos Hotel, Lecce

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Aircon
Safe


Situated just outside of the historic town of Lecce, Hotel Eos is a modern hotel with modern facilities.

Rooms are contemporary and fully furnished.

Day 12: Leave Lecce

Extending your holiday

If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Hotel Excelsior, Bari.

hotel details

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Hotel Excelsior, Bari

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Aircon
Safe


The Hotel Excelsior has large and bright rooms. There is also a bar and restaurant offering Mediterranean dishes.

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE DATE

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These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £355.

We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.

This holiday is also available with mainly 4 Star accommodation.

TRAVEL DETAILS

If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Bari airport. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.

We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.

Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.

OPTIONAL UPGRADES
  • Flights from London or any available regional airport*
  • Airport parking and airport hotels
  • Priority at Security and Fast Track
  • Airport lounge access
  • Priority boarding and extra leg-room seats
  • Business/club/first class fares
  • Electric bikes

Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.

REVIEWS

We absolutely loved Matera and the rides through the olive groves. We enjoyed the local food and wine and the cycle route along the coast was fabulous.

A Valued Customer, 26 Sep 2024

 

Navigation app was amazing as was the support from local agents. Beautiful rides through stunning scenery apart from short time on busy coastal roads. Accommodation was mostly good to excellent.

Adam Windsor, 8 Jun 2024

 

A fantastic holiday with a great itinerary and great places to stop and see on the way.

The first couple of days it was very hot and the hill climbing on those days was very tough with few places to stop or get out of the sun. We did this holiday on conventional bikes where’s e-bikes would have made some of those climbs easier. The latter part of the cycling was much easier and cooler by the coast which was more aligned to our expectations.

Nichola Watson, 4 Jun 2024

 

Very good but its not a cheap holiday. Might have liked a few more dinners included in price



Christina Steenson, 21 May 2024

 

We thoroughly enjoyed cycling through the beautiful countryside of Matera and Puglia. Puglia cycles need a mention for their incredible support, accessibility, kindness and consideration. We had the best introduction and best care we could have wanted. I do think that the beauty is primarily in the first week of the holiday. As you reach the plains and seaside the countryside is very flat, windy and a little boring: you can appreciate only so many olive groves and vineyards!

We didn’t complete the holiday because my husband had an accident: no fault of anyone. But I feel that an extra day mid holiday for bottom resting would have been appreciated.

We may take a break for a year but we have cycled with Headwater for almost ten years and they have been the best holidays anyone could wish for.

Sara Skinner, 7 May 2024

 

Was a good trip. Valued the free day in Matera and the shorter cycling day to Alberello so had time to visit the limestone caves. The app was easy to follow. Welcomed opportunity to upgrade the hotels.

David Carlyle, 23 Sep 2023

 

All in all we had a great time. We would recommend Headwater to other people.

Alexander Whiteside, 14 Sep 2023

 

Another great holiday from Headwater, thoroughly enjoyed the cycling and loved the location and the Puglian people, very friendly indeed. The contrasting accommodation was extremely interesting from a cave once inhabited by the Sassi in Matera, to a B&B where we had breakfast in the owners dining room in Putignano, a Trulli in Alberabello and a 4 star hotel in Otranto. The itinerary was full on and definitely showed us all that Puglia has to offer. Fantastic!

Mark Stead, 10 Sep 2023

 

A lovely itinerary with something different every day. Good accommodation and food.

OATES, 22 May 2023

 

We had a wonderful holiday in Puglia cycling from Matera to Lecce over 9 days. It is a stunning part of the world and on a bike you have the advantage of seeing things and meeting people that you wouldn't if traveling by car. Overall, we would highly recommend this holiday. As we were cycling in April we did find a lot of the coastal areas were just getting ready for holiday season, so they were quiet and cafes were not always open. However, this was also a positive in that the roads were extremely quiet (apart from towns), so on balance this was good for us. The introduction and bike hike through Puglia Cycle Tours was excellent and our choice of electric bikes definitely the best decision for us as it was hilly in places. The electric bikes meant that we didn't walk up any hills! My only regret bikewise was that I didn't take my gel saddle with me but otherwise all worked well and we would love to return to this part of the world to explore further.

Mrs Unwin, 11 Apr 2023

 


Self-guided cycling

11 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2
Moderate

Flights
available

14.0Kg CO2e

Headwater
Navigation App

Optional
e-bike hire

11 nights from £1459

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE

Call: 01606 720199

 

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