Sassi and Trulli 8 Days Cycling Tour

After staying in the “Sassi”, the old district of Matera completely carved out into the rock, you will reach the Itria Valley, a karstic land also called the Valley of the Trulloes, typical and unique conical drywall houses still in use in Apulia.

Back to Basilicata in the Bradano valley, you will cycle rolling hills through an explosion of colours, olive groves and ancient farmhouses.

Local culture, traditions and genuine food will fascinate you and give you an unforgettable atmosphere of this corner of Southern Italy.

Highlights

The Sassi of Matera
The Trulloes and the Itria Valley
The Land of Ravines
The Bradano Valley

Itinerary

Day 1 – Matera

Arrival in Matera and transfer to your hotel.
Suggested (not included): guided tour around the Sassi – a UNESCO world heritage site since 1993 – with its small streets and squares, caves, rock churches and cellars. Two districts built from the Medieval age through to the last century. We suggest you have dinner at one of the Sassi’s typical restaurants. Overnight stay.

Day 2 – from Matera to Alberobello

Distribution of bicycles, briefing and departure for Alberobello. You will pass through the small villages of Gioia del Colle and Noci and on to Alberobello, the capital town of “trulloes” and a UNESCO world heritage site. Accommodation in the historical centre in a trullo dating from 1600. Overnight stay.
Length: 69 km
Grade: Easy to Moderate

Day 3 – Alberobello Loops

Cycle Option n. 1
The Itria Valley loop to Locorotondo and Cisternino
Length: Approx. 45 km
Grade: Easy

Cycle Option n. 2
A trip to the underground world of the Castellana Caves
Length: Approx. 40 km
Grade: Easy

Day 4 – The Land of Ravines

Heading south into the Taranto province, you will pedal through deserted roads and vineyards. You will cross the Land of the Ravines and the villages of Mottola and Palagianello. The Ravines are deep precipices, often more than 100 metres deep, similar to canyons. Overnight stay in a farm not far from the Bradano River.
Length: Approx. 70 km
Grade: Easy to Moderate

Day 5 – The Bradano Valley

Today you will continue pedalling along the Bradano River through vineyards and orange trees. After a light ascent on the Montescaglioso hill (a visit to the Benedictine Abbey is a must), back to the valley again and overnight stay at a holiday farm specialized in producing vegetables. Relax in the swimming pool.
Length: Approx. 55 km
Grade: Easy to Moderate

Day 6 – Enjoy a rest day or…

Today you can enjoy cycling loop in the valley or relax by the swimming pool.
Cycling along the ancient “Via Appia” (an old Roman road), you will pass through the charming medieval village of Miglionico, with a nice view of the valley.
Length: Approx. 35 km
Grade: Easy to Moderate

Day 7 – Back to Matera

Back to Matera with climb skirting the Park of Rock Churches again. Free afternoon for visiting museums, walking in the Sassi and enjoy your dinner in a cave restaurant.
Length: Approx. 25 km
Grade: Moderate

Day 8 – End of tour

Breakfast and end of tour.