Between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas
Exploring the enchanting region of Puglia by bike promises a journey through time and culture, where soft landscapes meet rugged terrain, and ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. Puglia, often referred to as "La Puglia," beckons travelers with its welcoming embrace, inviting them to become part of its rich tapestry of history and hospitality. As you pedal through Emperor Frederick II's "Arkadia," you'll be immersed in a sensory experience like no other. The air is perfumed with the scent of pine trees, mingling with the salty sea breeze and the sweet fragrance of almonds and orange blossoms. These aromas, combined with the gentle rhythms of nature, create an atmosphere of tranquility and harmony.
Puglia's cultural heritage is as diverse as its landscapes, with influences from across the Mediterranean and beyond leaving their mark on the region. From ancient Greek and Roman ruins to Byzantine churches and Norman castles, the history of Puglia unfolds before you as you traverse its sun-kissed countryside. Throughout your bike tour, you'll have the opportunity to savor the unique fusion of Orient and Occident that defines Puglia. Whether you're sampling local cuisine bursting with flavors of the Mediterranean or exploring traditional crafts passed down through generations, you'll discover the essence of this captivating region at every turn. So, saddle up and embark on a journey of discovery through Puglia's timeless landscapes and vibrant culture. Let the soft, flowing forms of the land guide you as you explore this ancient cultural land, where every mile brings new wonders and delights. Welcome to Puglia, where the past meets the present in a symphony of beauty and grace.
UNIQUE ON THIS JOURNEY
- italian and Byzantine-Oriental culture
- Castel del Monte - the enigmatic castle of Friedrich II (World Heritage Site)
- original Trulli architecture (World Heritage Site)
- Cycle routes through gentle, fertile landscapes
- Lecce - baroque jewel: for many the most beautiful town in Italy
- Original, unadulterated places and cultural landscapes
PRIVATE TRIP
Experience the Freedom of Bespoke Travel. Imagine all the possibilities, and let us bring them to life. With our bespoke travel option, you have the power to design your perfect cycling adventure. Whether it's for a group of friends, a couple, or a family, we can customize our bike tours to suit your preferences. You decide who joins you, how and when you want to travel, and where you want to explore. Our Experience Designer will work closely with you to craft a personalized itinerary, infused with insider knowledge, local connections, and a touch of magic. This tour can be booked as offered, but we can also change tour details for your group on request. Additional overnight stays are also possible, as is a different route. We can also adapt the hotel category to your wishes.
Ready to start planning? Before we begin, we'd love to hear more about your vision. Get in touch today to begin your bespoke cycling adventure: Info@terranova-touristik.de | +49-69693054.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: BENVENUTI - ARRIVAL TO BARI
Arriving in Bari, you'll be greeted by the vibrant energy of Apulia's capital, a city teeming with history and charm. Your tour guides will be eagerly waiting for you at 7:00 p.m. in the hotel lobby, ready to usher you into the heart of Bari's old town. As you stroll through its picturesque alleys and quaint squares, you'll be enchanted by the romantic flair and architectural beauty that define this hidden gem. Your evening unfolds in a small trattoria, where the warm ambiance and rustic charm set the stage for a culinary journey through the region's traditional "Cucina di Terra." Here, amidst the cozy interior and authentic flavors, you'll savor the essence of Puglia's rich culinary heritage, delighting in dishes that reflect the land's bounty and the warmth of its people.
Bari's Centro Storico, with its centuries-old history and architectural harmony, offers a glimpse into the city's storied past. Despite being a bustling metropolis with over 300,000 inhabitants, Bari's old town retains an intimate charm, inviting exploration and discovery around every corner. Nestled along the magnificent avenue Corso Cavour, just a stone's throw from the Teatro Petruzzelli, your accommodation at the Oriente Hotel**** offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Here, amid the city's vibrant energy, you'll enjoy a restful night's sleep, lulled by the echoes of Bari's rich cultural tapestry.
As the evening draws to a close, you'll retire to your room at the Oriente Hotel, filled with the memories of your first evening in Puglia and eager anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead. Welcome to Bari, where history, culture, and culinary delights await at every turn.
DAY 2: ON THE TRACKS OF THE STAUFERS - BIKE: 49 km, middle stage
After a hearty breakfast, your day promises to be filled with exploration and adventure as you journey to Castel del Monte aboard a comfortable bus. Perched majestically atop a hill in the hilly Murgia region, the castle of Emperor Friedrich II awaits, offering a glimpse into the rich history of Apulia and earning its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As you traverse through the Alta Murgia National Park, spanning nearly 680 square kilometers, you'll be immersed in the breathtaking beauty of this protected landscape. The Murge plateau, characterized by its limestone terrain and fertile soil, presents a striking contrast of rugged rock formations and verdant fields. Amidst vineyards, orchards, and limestone boulders, you'll traverse winding country lanes, each turn revealing a new facet of this captivating region. A stop at a traditional "masseria" offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in an authentic Apulian lunch or picnic, savoring the flavors of the region amidst the rustic charm of the countryside.
As the day draws to a close, your return transfer will whisk you back to Bari, where you'll find yourself once again amidst the vibrant energy of the city. With the evening at your leisure, you'll have the chance to explore Bari's charming old town, dotted with inviting bars and restaurants offering a taste of local life. As you retire to the comforts of the Oriente Hotel, you'll carry with you the memories of a day filled with discovery and the promise of more adventures to come.
DAY 3: TRULLI IN THE "VALLE D'ITRIA" - BIKE: 47 km, middle stage
Embarking on a picturesque journey through the charming Itria Valley, your day begins with a scenic bus transfer (56 km) to this idyllic region. As you traverse the undulating landscape adorned with stacked field stone walls, you'll be immersed in the tranquility of the countryside. Arriving in Alberobello, the quintessential center of trulli architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll marvel at the whimsical districts comprised almost entirely of these iconic cone-shaped structures. Despite the bustling atmosphere brought on by numerous excursionists, don't let it detract from the magic of this unique destination.
After a guided tour exploring the enchanting trulli-lined streets, your cycling adventure continues towards Locorotondo. Along the way, scattered trulli, olive groves, almond trees, and vineyards paint a picturesque backdrop as you pedal towards your day's destination. Nestled amidst the rural landscape, the Hotel Relais Il Palmento beckons with its charming trulli-inspired architecture, offering a tranquil retreat for the night. Here, amidst the rustic charm of a complete trulli village, you'll indulge in a delightful dinner before retiring for a restful overnight stay. As you drift off to sleep, surrounded by the timeless beauty of the Itria Valley, you'll carry with you the memories of a day filled with discovery and the promise of more enchanting experiences yet to come.
DAY 4: TO THE IONIAN SEA - BIKE: 53 km, easy stage
Starting at the foot of Martina Franca's town hill, your cycling adventure through the captivating landscape of Murgia begins, adorned with endless groves of olive trees and the distinctive red earth that characterizes the region (transfer to the bike start: 13 km). Pedaling through this picturesque terrain, you'll be enchanted by the natural beauty that surrounds you, as the gentle breeze carries the scent of olive blossoms through the air.
By midday, you'll find yourself on the cusp of the Ionian Sea, nearing the quaint town of Massafra. Nestled on either side of the Gravina San Marco gorge, Massafra boasts a spectacular location that captivates the imagination. Here, amidst the rugged cliffs and dramatic landscape, you'll pause for a leisurely lunch, soaking in the breathtaking vistas that unfold before you. In the afternoon, a transfer awaits to whisk you further into the heart of Salento, the southern "boot heel" of Italy (78 km). As you pedal through olive groves and pastoral scenery, you'll make your way to the Club Azzurro Hotel**** in Porto Cesareo, your tranquil oasis nestled amidst the rural idyll of the countryside.
Arriving at the hotel, you'll be greeted by the warm hospitality and inviting atmosphere that awaits. After a day of exploration and adventure, indulge in a delicious dinner, savoring the flavors of the region, before retiring for a restful overnight stay. Here, amidst the serene beauty of Salento, you'll find peace and tranquility under the starlit sky, ready to embrace the adventures that lie ahead.
DAY 5: GALLIPOLI - BLACK PEARL OF THE SALENTO COAST - BIKE: 32 km, easy stage
Today's cycling route offers a mesmerizing journey along the stunning Ionian Sea, tracing the coastline of the Gulf of Taranto. As you pedal along, you'll be greeted by kilometer-long sandy beaches and charming bathing resorts that dot the shoreline, drawing visitors seeking summer relaxation. Your path leads you through the coastal nature park of "Porto Selvaggio e Palude del Capitano," where a longer climb awaits. For those who prefer, your tour guides are on hand to offer a ride on the terranova bus to conquer this ascent. In the afternoon, the scenic ride continues along the coast, passing by picturesque seaside villages and vibrant beachfront scenes.
Eventually, you'll arrive at Gallipoli, renowned as one of the most beloved towns along the Gulf of Taranto. Founded by Greeks from Taranto, the city's name translates to "beautiful city," a testament to its rich history and Byzantine cultural heritage, which thrived until the Norman Conquest. The Greek Orthodox influence endured here until 1513, leaving behind a legacy of architectural marvels and cultural significance.
Gallipoli's old town sits atop an island connected to the mainland by a bridge, offering panoramic views of the sea and the crescent-shaped "Baia Verde" from every angle. Tonight, you'll be treated to a stay at the modern 5-star Hotel Palazzo del Corso***** just before the bridge to the old town island. Before dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, protected by a fortified castle, and immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of this coastal gem. Indulge in a delectable dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the sea, savoring the flavors of the region while soaking in the breathtaking coastal scenery. As the day comes to a close, retreat to the luxurious comforts of Hotel Palazzo del Corso, where you'll rest easy, surrounded by the timeless beauty of Gallipoli's historic charm.
DAY 6: ACROSS SALENTO - BIKE: 57 km, middle stage
Today's cycling adventure takes you on a scenic journey through the heart of the Italian boot heel, offering a diverse landscape to explore. Starting from your hotel, you'll pedal along the picturesque Baia Verde, home to one of Apulia's most popular sandy beaches, stretching over 5 kilometers along the coast. As you cycle along this idyllic shoreline, you'll bask in the beauty of the azure waters and golden sands that define this captivating bay.
Leaving the coast behind, your route delves into the interior of the Salento region, where Mediterranean landscapes unfold before you, dotted with olive groves, vineyards, and quaint villages. Absorb the tranquil ambiance as you meander through this sparsely populated countryside, soaking in the essence of rural Apulia. Before reaching the Adriatic coast near Otranto, today's cycling excursion concludes, and you'll be whisked away by bus to the vibrant city of Lecce, approximately 40 kilometers away. Here, you'll spend the next two nights in the comfort of a charming hotel nestled within the historic old town.
Lecce, often hailed as the "Florence of the Baroque," boasts a festive baroque ensemble crafted from honey-colored tuff, showcasing Italy's finest architectural treasures. This bustling metropolis exudes a timeless charm, inviting you to immerse yourself in its rich cultural tapestry and southern Italian flair.
In the late afternoon, a knowledgeable city guide will lead you on a captivating tour of Lecce's architectural marvels, offering insights into its storied past and vibrant present. As the evening unfolds, you'll have the opportunity to explore the lively streets and bustling squares of the historic center at your leisure. With an array of charming restaurants and stylish bars to choose from, you'll have ample time to savor the culinary delights and vibrant ambiance of Lecce on your own. Retreat to the comfort of the Hotel Hilton Garden Inn****, where you'll unwind and reflect on the day's adventures, surrounded by the timeless beauty of Lecce's historic charm.
DAY 7: ALONG THE ADRIATIC TO OTRANTO - BIKE: 27 km, easy stage
Today marks the culmination of your cycling journey as you embark on the final stage, tracing a scenic route from Lecce towards the Adriatic Sea. A short transfer of 19 kilometers transports you to the starting point of your cycling adventure, where you'll set out along the breathtaking Adriatic coast. The route unfolds amidst stunning coastal vistas, with glimpses of historic watchtowers such as Torre dell'Orso, standing sentinel against the backdrop of azure waters. Leaving the coast behind, you'll veer inland towards the picturesque hinterland, where charming villages and bucolic landscapes await. As you pedal through this idyllic countryside, you'll encounter the tranquil beauty of nature reserves and inland lakes, such as Alimini Piccolo & Alimini Grande, teeming with fish and birdlife.
Your cycling odyssey culminates in the enchanting town of Otranto, renowned for its pristine beaches, fortified old town, and scenic promenade nestled on a picturesque peninsula. Here, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in a leisurely lunch and explore the town's historic charms at your own pace. In the afternoon, a return transfer of 47 kilometers brings you back to Lecce, where you'll have ample time to wander through the cobbled streets and quaint alleyways of the old town. As evening descends, you'll gather for a memorable farewell dinner at a stylish restaurant in the heart of this baroque city, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories forged along the journey.
Retire to the comfort of the Hilton Garden Inn****, where you'll spend your final night immersed in the timeless allure of Lecce's historic ambiance, savoring the essence of Apulia's rich cultural heritage.
DAY 8: ARRIVEDERCI ITALIA!
After indulging in a hearty breakfast, the time will come to bid farewell to the enchanting region of Apulia. At around 9:00 a.m., we'll whisk you away on a comfortable transfer to the airport of your choice. For those departing from Brindisi, the journey spans approximately 45 kilometers, and advance booking for the transfer is available at EUR 30 per person. Alternatively, if your journey concludes in Bari, the transfer covers a distance of 176 kilometers, with the option to secure your spot in advance.
As you embark on your journey homeward, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories woven into the fabric of your Apulian adventure. From the vibrant streets of Bari to the sun-kissed shores of Otranto, each moment has been imbued with the rich cultural heritage and timeless beauty of this captivating region.
As you journey onwards, carry with you the warmth of Apulia's hospitality and the echoes of laughter shared amidst olive groves and ancient towns. Until we meet again, may the spirit of adventure continue to guide your path, and may the memories of Apulia linger as a testament to the enduring allure of Italy's southern gem. Safe travels, and arrivederci!
PLEASE NOTE
Please book the transfer from the last hotel in Lecce to the airports in Brindisi or Bari when booking your trip! If you have booked your flights yourself, we ask you to let us know the flight times at least 4 weeks before departure so that we can organize a suitable airport transfer for you (for a transfer fee).
Subject to program changes!
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EVALUATION: The total distance by bike and on foot is 265 km / 172 miles. We are cycling mostly on small rural roads. Almost all roads are paved. The landscape is sparsely populated and hilly.
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- ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE
Your tour guides will be waiting for you on the 1st day of travel at 7:00 p.m. at the reception of the Hotel Oriente in Bari. After a warm welcome and a brief introduction to the trip, he will walk with you through the historic center to a cozy pub in the old town.
- The hotel address is: Hotel Oriente****
Corso Cavour, 32, 70122 Bari, Italy
Phone: +39 080 525 5100
- You will receive the cell phone number of our terranova tour guide in the letter with the last travel documents about 2 weeks before the start of the tour.
- Flights: We will book the best flight connection to Bari for you if requested.
- We advise you to take a taxi to get to the hotel. The airport is 11 km from the hotel. A regular taxi costs around EUR 25-30 for this route. There is also a bus line (line 16) that runs from the airport to the city center at least every hour (approx. 30 minutes). You can also travel to the city center by train (Ferrovia Regionale (FR2, gray); Metro Ferrovia Metropolitana (FM2, yellow)). It is only 17 minutes to the main train station Bari Centrale (2-4x per hour). The price for a ticket is EUR 6.00. Tickets are available at the airport. It is only 750 meters from the train station to the hotel.
- Departure: Around 09:00 our guides offer you an airport transfer (not included in the tour price) from Lecce to Brindisi (45 km) and/or Bari (176 km). This transfer can be booked in advance for an additional charge.
- If you want or need to leave at an earlier or later time, we can book an airport transfer for you in advance (costs depend on the number of people. The prices are valid for at least 2 people!). Status: Mai 2024 - We reserve the right to make changes
- Extension of the tour
It is worth extending the tour by staying overnight or staying overnight afterwards. This applies to a stay in Bari or Lecce.• Bari In order to be able to enjoy Bari's old town in peace, you should arrive a day earlier! The historical center is situated on a peninsula that can be circumnavigated on a promenade along the sea. Cozy cafés in beautiful squares invite you to linger. Our Hotel Oriente is comfortable and only a few steps away from the old town streets.
• Lecce Lecce is a baroque jewel and is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful cities in Italy! Our Hotel Risorgimento Resort is one of the best in the city, right in the historic center!
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