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Italy: Puglia

Contrasts of Puglia Cycling

Trip code: C07PU

Average customer rating 4.7 / 5(56 verified reviews)

Self-Guided Cycling
7 nights hotel-to-hotel
Moderate
Flights available
COβ‚‚ rating 1/5
Headwater Navigation app

Trip highlights

Beautifully unspoilt region, full of contrasts and interest-packed cycling

Historic wine towns, colourful fishing villages, white sandy beaches, ancient olive orchards, tiny farming hamlets
unchanged over the years

Hand-picked hotels including two nights in a unique trullo house in UNESCO Alberobello

Traditional Mediterranean cuisine and excellent wines

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Trip details

An outright winner from the start, this self-guided seven night cycling holiday
explores a sun-soaked region of empty beaches, unspoilt villages and low fertile
hills rolling down into the clear emerald seas of the Adriatic.

What's included

Included

  • 7 nights in 3-star equivalent, 3-star and 4-star 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

Not included

  • Flights
  • Local taxes/fees
  • Travel insurance

Your bike

Hand-picked for the route, hire included

Cube, Nature Trekking or equivalent. Your bike hire is included in the price of your holiday and comes equipped with the relevant essentials, plus rear pannier and phone holder.

Travel options

Flights

Our air prices include standard flights and transfers.

Itinerary

Route map, with each night's stop marked
The full route, night by night. Select the map to view it full screen.

Day 1 Β· β€”Arrive at Conversano

Arrive at Conversano

Arrive at the Relais Corte Altavilla. There’s time to explore the historic town before choosing one of the many restaurants for dinner (payable locally)

You stay at Relais Corte Altavilla

Corte Altavilla
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Relais Corte Altavilla

Conversano

  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Market
  • Mastercard
  • Tea & coffee
  • Wifi access

The 4-star hotel Corte Altavilla Relais & Charme is located right in the historic centre of Conversano, just off one of the main squares – Piazza Conciliazione. The hotel is in an old medieval building with inner courtyard that once served as an old medieval courthouse for the town.

Following major renovation works in 2002 the hotel opened as an elegant four-star boutique hotel with 32 elegant rooms and appartments, each with its own personality and charm, with white stone walls, wrought iron furnishings, wooden-beams and vaulted ceilings.

All rooms are equipped with modern amenities including: air-conditioning, satellite-TV, direct-dial telephone, safe, Internet and mini-bar/fridge.

Local tourist tax not included (pay hotel locally)

Day 2 Β· 40km/24.9miConversano to Alberobello

Conversano to Alberobello

Today’s pedalling takes you through the rolling hills of the Valle d’Itria where the air is perfumed with wild mint and herbs. Stop off in the little towns of Putignano and Noci, and view their characteristic whitewashed houses and narrow alleyways. It’s then off to unique Alberobello and its plethora of trulli houses, the architectural symbol of the region. On arrival you’ll be met by one of the staff, who will show you to your own private trullo house.

Elevation

Conversano to Alberobello elevation profile

You stay at Tipico Resort or Trullidea

Tipico Resort, Alberobello

Tipico Resort

Alberobello

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Television
  • Wifi access

As an alternative to Trullidea, stays can also be taken at the Tipico Resort.

Conveniently located in the centre of historic Alberobello and a lovely experience of staying in a traditional trulli.

Each trulli is equipped with air conditioning, Wifi, TV, kitchenette and dining area and offers a comfortable and unique stay.

Local tourist tax not included (pay hotel locally)

Trullidea
equivalent

Trullidea

Alberobello

A unique and authentic experience staying in a trulli, a traditional 15th century Apulian stone building with conical roof.

Each trulli house is made up of a double bedroom, small bathroom with shower and living area with sofa and small kitchenette.

The trullis are located in the centre of historic Alberobello, a UNESCO world heritage site, within walking distance of cafes, restaurants and shops.

Day 3 Β· 45km/28.0miAt Alberobello

At Alberobello

Explore the narrow streets and kitsch souvenir shops, or visit the Museo del Territorio. Alternatively, cycle into the Itria Valley to visit stunning Locorotondo, with its panoramic views across the valley. Continue on to Martina Franca, with its beautiful Baroque architechture and stunning palazzi.

Elevation

At Alberobello elevation profile

You stay at Tipico Resort or Trullidea

Tipico Resort, Alberobello

Tipico Resort

Alberobello

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Television
  • Wifi access

As an alternative to Trullidea, stays can also be taken at the Tipico Resort.

Conveniently located in the centre of historic Alberobello and a lovely experience of staying in a traditional trulli.

Each trulli is equipped with air conditioning, Wifi, TV, kitchenette and dining area and offers a comfortable and unique stay.

Local tourist tax not included (pay hotel locally)

Trullidea
equivalent

Trullidea

Alberobello

A unique and authentic experience staying in a trulli, a traditional 15th century Apulian stone building with conical roof.

Each trulli house is made up of a double bedroom, small bathroom with shower and living area with sofa and small kitchenette.

The trullis are located in the centre of historic Alberobello, a UNESCO world heritage site, within walking distance of cafes, restaurants and shops.

Day 4 Β· 49km/30.4miAlberobello to Pezze di Greco

Alberobello to Pezze di Greco

You’ll spend this morning cycling along beautiful undulating country lanes lined with weathered stone walls, before enjoying a long downhill run with panoramic views of the Adriatic coastline and the lower fertile plains. This incredible descent will bring you down towards Capitolo and finishes through a patchwork of almond orchards, olive groves, vineyards and gloriously coloured fields of fresh tomatoes and peppers.

Elevation

Alberobello to Pezze di Greco elevation profile

You stay at Masseria San Martino

Pool
Image 1 of 2

Masseria San Martino

Pezze di Greco

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Swimming pool
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

Masseria San Martino is a restored manor dating back to the 17th Century. It is surrounded by olive groves. The rooms have a rustic traditional style and are equipped with all comforts. These rooms were once the living spaces of the Masseria where farmers used to live. Rooms have been remodeled and refurnished in perfect Mediterranean style, maintaining the original features.

Day 5 Β· 51km/31.7miAt Pezze di Greco

At Pezze di Greco

Relax by the hotel’s pool, or cycle to the nearby beach. For the more energetic, ride to charming Ostuni whose whitewashed houses are neatly piled on hills rich in olive groves and vineyards.

Elevation

At Pezze di Greco elevation profile

You stay at Masseria San Martino

Pool
Image 1 of 2

Masseria San Martino

Pezze di Greco

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Swimming pool
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

Masseria San Martino is a restored manor dating back to the 17th Century. It is surrounded by olive groves. The rooms have a rustic traditional style and are equipped with all comforts. These rooms were once the living spaces of the Masseria where farmers used to live. Rooms have been remodeled and refurnished in perfect Mediterranean style, maintaining the original features.

Day 6 Β· 36km/22.4miPezze di Greco to Monopoli

Pezze di Greco to Monopoli

This morning you leave the masseria and head back to the Adriatic coast on a gentle flat route. You will cycle past the colourful fishing village of Savelletri, a perfect stop for an authentic Italian espresso or to indulge in a delicious seafood lunch. Your ride will continue past the archaeological site of Egnazia, once the location of a Greco-Roman town, dating as far back as 4BC. You then reach the picturesque coastal town of Monopoli and the 3-star Albergo Diffuso in time for a stroll before choosing your evening restaurant from one of the many eateries in the heart of the old town.

Elevation

Pezze di Greco to Monopoli elevation profile

You stay at Albergo Diffuso Monopoli or Palazzo Indelli

Albergo Diffuso
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Albergo Diffuso Monopoli

Monopoli

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Diners Club
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Other email access
  • Safe
  • Shops
  • Tea & coffee
  • Television

This property is 3 minutes walk from the beach. Set in various locations around the historical centre, just a stroll from Monopoli’s seafront and its beautiful beaches, Albergo Diffuso Monopoli offers elegant, air-conditioned rooms.

Accommodation has exposed Tuffo-stone walls and quality furniture. There is free WiFi, flat screen TV, air conditioning and a private bathroom with bath or shower.

Breakfast in the hotel’s central cafe and dinner will be in a good local restaurant.

Local tourist tax not included (pay hotel locally)

Palazzo Indelli

Palazzo Indelli

Monopoli

  • Air conditioning
  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Market
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Shops
  • Television
  • Wifi access

As an alternative to the Albergo Diffuso, stays can also be taken at the Palazzo Indelli.

Located by the harbour, this 4 star hotel offers a comfortable and elegant stay right in the centre of Monopoli’s old town.

Rooms have Wifi, TV and air conditioning and there is an excellent restaurant with an emphasis on sea food, using fresh local produce caught from the hotel’s own fishing vessel.

Local tourist tax not included (pay hotel locally)

Day 7 Β· 59km/36.7miAt Monopoli

At Monopoli

Today’s route takes you along the stunning coastline all the way to the beautiful Polignano a Mare. Take the time to explore this vibrant fishing village before continuing to the picturesque village of San Vito with its multi-coloured boats. Head back to Monopoli and enjoy an aperitivo in the old town’s square watching the world walk past.

Elevation

At Monopoli elevation profile

You stay at Albergo Diffuso Monopoli or Palazzo Indelli

Albergo Diffuso
Image 1 of 2

Albergo Diffuso Monopoli

Monopoli

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Diners Club
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Other email access
  • Safe
  • Shops
  • Tea & coffee
  • Television

This property is 3 minutes walk from the beach. Set in various locations around the historical centre, just a stroll from Monopoli’s seafront and its beautiful beaches, Albergo Diffuso Monopoli offers elegant, air-conditioned rooms.

Accommodation has exposed Tuffo-stone walls and quality furniture. There is free WiFi, flat screen TV, air conditioning and a private bathroom with bath or shower.

Breakfast in the hotel’s central cafe and dinner will be in a good local restaurant.

Local tourist tax not included (pay hotel locally)

Palazzo Indelli

Palazzo Indelli

Monopoli

  • Air conditioning
  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Market
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Shops
  • Television
  • Wifi access

As an alternative to the Albergo Diffuso, stays can also be taken at the Palazzo Indelli.

Located by the harbour, this 4 star hotel offers a comfortable and elegant stay right in the centre of Monopoli’s old town.

Rooms have Wifi, TV and air conditioning and there is an excellent restaurant with an emphasis on sea food, using fresh local produce caught from the hotel’s own fishing vessel.

Local tourist tax not included (pay hotel locally)

Day 8 Β· β€”Leave Monopoli

Leave Monopoli

Please note: This tour has been given a 1 Bike + rating based on ascents/descents and distance; the cycling may feel harder over the hotter months.

What our travellers say

Our party of 10 really enjoyed the Puglia cycling trip. The route is well chosen and delivered comprehensively by the GPS app. Logistics re luggage and bike support were excellent. Accommodation choices were spot on. We felt privileged to stay at these impressive locations and found a very warm welcome at each.

Mr Stevens

Cycle route is definitely more than 1 bike

Dr Lombard

Contrast of Puglia – just as it says – contrast in accommodation, cycling inland and to the coast, food different in each area – perfect mixed holiday

Mrs Russell

We found the Trulli house rather dark, cold and uncomfortable but an experience. i would suggest that the tour only offers one night there. Eating well at night proved difficult, everywhere was booked the first night and the we did not know that Tuesday evenings is the night restaurants close there, so that night we has almost no choice along with most of the other tourists there.

Mrs Williamson

Very good but you are not cheap.

Mr Hardy

An adventure and yes, it certainly provided "contrasts" of Puglia. We found Italian people (including drivers) friendly and very accommodating, they made us feel very welcome, especially the farmer who brought us 2 ice cold bottles of water and offered us a shaded bench in his garden to eat our lunch!

Mrs Reynard

Our first time to Puglia and we loved the rural relatively undeveloped charm of this part of Italy! Acres of cherry, fig and olive orchards, a pretty coastline and towns with narrow streets and ancient buildings that have been there for centuries.

Mrs Hoare

Excellent experience, so many lovely places and the accommodation was really good. Some of the hills were tougher than expected, but not impossible. The service from Donna when booking was outstanding. Great way to see Puglia which is largely unspoilt by tourism and the wine is fabulous. So many more memories than just a beach holiday,

Mrs Mcintyre

We went on the PIedmont Gastronomic cycling 2 years ago so had a good idea what to expect this time. The accommodation was all of a very good standard and well chosen. All the accommodation had bags of character and made a fantastic change from staying in standard generic branded hotels. The cycling was easier than Piedmont but still a challenge in 30 – 32 degrees. Although, the bikes are fitted with non puncture tyres, we unfortunately suffered a puncture! We were unable to complete a roadside repair due to a combination of the extra thick tyre walls and flimsy tyre leavers supplied. However, Antonio from the support team quickly came to our rescue and we were soon back on the road. Overall, a very stress free, enjoyable holiday, cycling through beautiful countryside one moment and along side the Adriatic the next. Also great wine, superb food and lovely sunshine.

Mrs Hill

Excellent but a bit hillier than expected.

Mr Jennings
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Positive impact

Carbon score for this trip

14.0

Kg COβ‚‚e

per person, per night

Relative to other Headwater trips

We measure emissions from the parts of the holiday we organise β€” including accommodation, in-trip transport, meals and activities β€” and express them as COβ‚‚e per person, per night. Our label doesn’t include your travel to and from the start of the trip. As a Certified B Corp, Headwater is committed to reducing this figure and to positively impacting local communities, the local environment and our staff. Learn more

FromΒ£1,409per person