Walking in Puglia & Matera
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary multi-day tour through the enchanting landscapes and historic towns of Southern Italy. From the whimsical trulli of Alberobello to the ancient cave dwellings of Matera, each day offers a unique blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Enjoy leisurely walks through picturesque villages, savor local wines, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this captivating region. With comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
Included
A private minibus is used for the airport transfers. We use a mix of private and public transport (train and bus) during the week.
All breakfasts, one lunch, three dinners, and one wine and local produce tasting are included.
The regional cuisine has strong links to the land and sea. This area is a paradise for food lovers and the abundance of delicious vegetables also makes it a great destination for vegetarians.
A selection of the food on offer includes: the pasta delicacy orecchiette, which is typically served with a sauce of turnip-tops or fresh tomato and sheep’s ricotta; cavatelli pasta with pulses; aubergine (eggplant) and parmesan bake; grilled fish and seafood; burrata (soft mozzarella and cream cheese); plus excellent wines.
vegetarian, vegan, meat
Stay in three unique destinations: the trulli town of Alberobello, the white city of Ostuni and the cave town of Matera. Below are the hotels typically used on this trip.
Alberobello: Hotel Ramapendula (nights 1-2)
We start at Hotel Ramapendula, which has an outdoor swimming pool, Apulian restaurant and a location close to the UNESCO-listed centre of Alberobello.
Ostuni: Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra (nights 3-4)
Our second accommodation is either Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra (above). The first is a 18th-century farmhouse outside Ostuni. Now run by the Laera family, it has a pool in the garden and rustic rooms. The second is set within a 13th-century building in the historic quarter of Ostuni. Along with an ideal location, it has a bar serving Apulian aperitifs and wine.
Matera: Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence (nights 5-7)
Our final nights are spent in either Hotel Sassi (above) or Fra I Sassi Residence. Opened in 1996, Hotel Sassi took over a series of dwellings, some of which date to the 1500s. There’s an Italian spread for breakfast (most of the produce locally sourced) and wonderful views of Matera from the terrace. The 15-room Fra I Sassi offers similarly spectacular views plus rooms built from the caves themselves.
Tour leader throughout
Destinations
Lecce
MateraMap
Attractions
porto antico
Jewish Museum LecceDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Discover the Enchanting Trulli of Alberobello
- Alberobello - Arrival day
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- Sailor Monument
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Begin your journey in the whimsical town of Alberobello, where the iconic trulli houses create a fairytale-like atmosphere. These unique limestone structures, with their conical roofs, offer a glimpse into the region's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town's narrow streets, immersing yourself in its enchanting charm. Accommodation for the night will be at Hotel Ramapendula or Hotel Silva (or similar).
Day 2 – Day 2: Scenic Walk to Locorotondo
- Alberobello
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- La Rotonda
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Set off on a picturesque walk to the hilltop village of Locorotondo, renowned for its white wine and charming architecture. Traverse the serene Itria Valley, passing olive groves and vineyards, before returning to Alberobello by train or bus. Rest at Hotel Ramapendula or Hotel Silva (or similar).
Day 3 – Day 3: Explore the White City of Ostuni
- Ostuni
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- Ancient Greek Walls Archaeological Park
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Travel to the stunning city of Ostuni, known for its whitewashed buildings and panoramic views. After exploring the city's historic sites, venture into the surrounding countryside, visiting the Agnano Archaeological Park. Enjoy a delightful dinner and stay at Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra (or similar).
Day 4 – Day 4: Discover Lecce or Polignano a Mare
- Lecce
- Polignano a Mare
- Ostuni
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- porto antico
- Jewish Museum Lecce
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Enjoy a free day to explore the region's treasures. Visit the baroque city of Lecce, often called the Florence of the South, or the coastal town of Polignano a Mare, perched on a limestone cliff. Return to Ostuni for a group dinner. Accommodation at Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra (or similar).
Day 5 – Day 5: Journey to the Ancient Town of Matera
- Matera
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- Sassi di Matera
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Head to the coast for a relaxing morning by the Adriatic Sea before traveling to Matera, one of the world's oldest towns. Explore the captivating Sassi districts, with their ancient cave dwellings. Stay at Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence (or similar).
Day 6 – Day 6: Hike the Murgia Plateau
- Matera
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- Alta Murgia National Park
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Embark on a hike to the Murgia plateau, home to ancient Rupestrian churches adorned with Byzantine frescoes. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sassi district before returning to Matera for a guided tour and a delightful wine tasting. Accommodation at Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence (or similar).
Day 7 – Day 7: Walk the Cammino Materano
- Matera
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- Sassi di Matera
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Explore sections of the Cammino Materano, a trail linking Matera and Brindisi. Traverse the historic quarters of the Sassi, marvel at the Mediterranean landscapes, and return to Matera by bus. Accommodation at Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence (or similar).
Day 8 – Day 8: Farewell to Matera
- Matera - Departure day
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Conclude your unforgettable journey in Matera. After breakfast, consider extending your stay to further explore this remarkable destination.
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