Day 1: Putignano
Putignano is a charming town famous for its ancient origins and lively Carnival celebrations. Its old town is a mix of medieval buildings and cozy piazzas. Upon arrival at your first accommodation, you will receive a warm welcome that includes a bike fitting and a full briefing of the tour. Once settled, it's time to sample Apulian wine. This experience is perfect for those eager to explore the world of enology and deepen their understanding of wine through a sensory journey. The tasting features a selection of wines, complemented by a delightful aperitif showcasing the finest Apulian regional specialties. If time permits, consider visiting one of Putignano’s museums where you might learn about the art of mask-making, a big part of the Carnival fun. And of course, don't miss the chance to indulge in some of Puglia's cuisine, featuring hearty pasta dishes.

Day 2: Putignano - Alberobello - Putiganano (21 mi. / 34 km)
How about a challenge? Can you bike a single stretch of today's route without laying eyes on a trullo? They're scattered all over the Itria Valley, the very heart of this region. Follow the Apulian Aqueduct cycling route, also known as the “Ciclovia dell’Acquedotto”, toward Alberobello, a UNESCO site, and see for yourself!

Day 3: Putignano - Polignano - Monopoli (31 mi. / 49 km)
As you bid farewell to Putignano, you'll leisurely cycle towards the Adriatic coast. Your destination is the town of Polignano a Mare, nestled on the edge of a cliff. Wander through its old town and enjoy breathtaking views from one of its terraces overlooking the sea. Continuing along the coast, you'll arrive at Monopoli, a blend of scenic beauty and history, offering the perfect backdrop for further exploration.

Day 4: Monopoli - Ostuni (28 mi. / 45 km)
Today's adventure begins as you cycle through the courtyards and arches of the old town, continuing along shores and little coves, leading to a spectacular sight: a vast expanse dotted with ancient olive trees, some centuries old. Gradually, a white silhouette emerges from the hills: it's Ostuni, renowned as "the white town" for its whitewashed houses and walls. To round off the day, experience the charm of Ostuni with a guided Ape Calessino tour, winding through its alleys and historic sites and providing panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.

Day 5: Ostuni - Avetrana (40 mi. / 66 km)
Today you'll cycle through the Salento countryside, adorned with olive groves and crimson soil, towards medieval towns boasting authentic historic centers. Before arriving at the "temple" dedicated to Primitivo wine, stroll through the winding alleys of Oria, a town dominated by a medieval castle and the kaleidoscopic dome of its cathedral. Continuing along the Primitivo wine route, you'll reach Manduria, where impressive palaces and a 5th-century cathedral await. Primitivo isn't just a superb wine; it's intertwined with the region's history and ranks among Italy's most beloved vintages. Prepare for the final kilometers leading to a beautiful Masseria nestled in the countryside, where you'll spend the night. A delicious dinner is included this evening at your accommodations.

Day 6: Avetrana sea loop (33 mi. / 53 km)
Take the opportunity to explore the coastal region within the province of Taranto, known for its unspoiled beauty despite being less frequented by tourists. Discover its endless stretches of golden sandy beaches, renowned for the crystal-clear and pristine waters of the Ionian Sea. Later this afternoon, learn about olive oil beginning with an introduction to how the farm operates, followed by a deep dive into how they produce their olives. You'll learn about different cultivation methods and every step of the process, from growing and harvesting to pressing and bottling. End the visit by tasting some of their 6 different varieties. Cap off the day with another savory dinner at the Masseria.

Day 7: Avetrana - Lecce (34 mi. / 55 km)
The last leg of the journey ventures entirely inland, departing from the bustling urban center and heading westward through flat, rural landscapes adorned with dry stone walls, olive groves, and local vineyards. The day concludes in Lecce, where you can discover baroque palaces and churches that gleam with golden hues at sunset.

Day 8: Lecce
Your cycling adventure ends today following breakfast.

*Consider adding a pre-tour adventure in Matera, one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world! Don’t miss exploring this unique place, home to the ancient 'Sassi' cave dwellings and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The city of the "Sassi" and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Matera is known for its ancient cave dwellings which are carved into the limestone cliffs. These historic caves, some of which date back to the Paleolithic period, were inhabited until the 1950s and have since been transformed into unique homes, restaurants, and boutique hotels. As you explore Matera, you will also encounter the local canyons, or "gravine," which add to the city's dramatic landscape.

Day 1: Matera
When you arrive at your first accommodation, you'll receive a warm welcome that includes a bike fitting and a detailed tour briefing. Once settled, take some time to discover Matera. Start by visiting the Sassi, where you can step inside one of the ancient cave dwellings to experience how people lived in these unique homes. If you have extra time, a leisurely walk in Murgia Park offers a chance to see more of the fascinating cave churches in the natural landscape. In the evening, head to Belvedere di Murgia Timone and other scenic viewpoints around Matera for breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. End the day by dining at a local trattoria, where you can sample traditional Basilicata cuisine.

Day 2: Matera - Castellaneta (37 mi / 60 km)
Departing from Matera, today's cycling route leads through the picturesque Ravines Regional Park, passing expansive wheat fields and stunning panoramas along the way. You'll also journey through the charming town of Laterza, famed for its bakery treats and beautiful pottery. In the evening, enjoy the serene beauty of Castellaneta's countryside, where traditional farmhouses, nestled in rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards, give a true taste of rural Puglia. Relax under the wide starry skies and unwind after a day of cycling.

Day 3: Castelleneta - Putignano (34 mi / 55km)
After breakfast, continue your journey through the Ravines Regional Park. Pedal over a remarkable stone bridge that spans one of the park's impressive ravines, ensuring a fun start to your day. As you leave the ravines behind, you'll encounter the iconic scenery of Puglia: dry stone walls, ancient Masseria, and trulli—the unique rural houses with conical roofs, built entirely without cement or mortar. Your journey for the day ends in Putignano, a town celebrated for hosting the oldest carnival in Europe.

• 7 nights accommodations
• 7 x breakfasts
• Standard touring bike
• Luggage transfer
• 2 dinners in Avetrana
• Welcome meeting and bike fitting
• Wine tasting in Putignano
• Guided visit in Ape Calessino in Ostuni
• Olive oil tasting in Avetrana
• GPS tracks

• 2 nights accommodations
• 2 x breakfasts
• Luggage transfer
• 1 dinner in Castellenata (does not include drink)
• Welcome meeting and bike fitting
• GPS tracks