At a Glance
Bask in the radiating ambiance of the sun-drenched paradise of Puglia on an 8-day walking voyage in Italy. Discover the enchanting triad of UNESCO listed sites of Alberobello and Matera and the baroque city of Lecce nicknamed "The Florence of the south," while indulging in surreal gastronomic experiences and exhilarating hikes. Brace yourself for a journey that ignites a fierce wanderlust - you won't want to leave!
Commence your journey in Alberobello, Italy, a town known for its remarkable cone-shaped trulli buildings. Staying in one of these unrivalled homes is a great way to see the area's rich culture and history firsthand. Take a stroll through the countryside on your way to Locorotondo, a town known for its welcoming citizens and excellent white wine. Travel to the beautiful white city of ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- Meals as specified including two wine and produce tasting
- 8 nights accommodation in unique premium accommodations including 2 nights in a trulli houses, 2 nights in a refurbished country farmhouse (agriturisomo); 3 nights in a beautiful cave hotel on a twin share basis
- Travel by private minivan and train
- Named tour leader, chosen for their expertise
- Guided visits in Alberobello, Lecce, Ostuni and Matera
- Local city taxes
- Group arrival and departure transfers available
- Entrance tickets and guided visits of San Agnano Archaeological Park and San Michele Abbey
- Train tickets to/from Lecce
- Group airport arrival and departure transfers available
Itinerary
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Take off on an adventure of a lifetime as you begin in the picturesque town of Alberobello, home to 1,500 unique trulli structures. These famous cone-shaped roofs are on the UNESCO World Heritage list and make for a fantastic setting for an exciting journey. Staying in one of these one-of-a-kind homes is the best way to get a feel for the local culture and create unforgettable experiences. A delicious welcome supper will kick off our tour and give you a chance to meet your other travellers and hear about their experiences so far. Get ready to be captivated by the magic of Alberobello! |
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Enjoy a wonderful two-night stay at charming Trulli lodgings in the centre of Alberobello, a short walk from the Basilica dei Santi Medici. The independent houses feature various amenities such as barrel vaulted ceilings, air conditioning, and cooling fans, each with a kitchen. Some options have private gardens or patios for a serene experience. |
Charming Trulli or Trulli e Puglia, Alberobello
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Approx. 13 km (8.1 miles), 3-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 150 m (492 ft), Elevation loss: 150 m (492 ft) Prepare for an unforgettable journey packed with breathtaking scenery and delectable treats in the beautiful Itria Valley, where your private transfer is awaits. Crossing the peaceful valley, you'll be treated to a colourful panorama of trulli homes, centuries-old olive trees, and expansive vineyards. Take a relaxing stroll through the countryside on your route to the hilltop town of Locorotondo, known for its friendly locals, picturesque streets, and world-renowned white wine. The sound of birds singing adds a melodic lilt to the already enchanted setting, and the air is heavy with the scent of newly harvested vegetables. Dine lavishly at a neighbourhood trattoria, taking your time to taste the real aromas of the regional specialties served there. When you've finished eating, take a private van to Alberobello, where the fun continues. As the sun begins to drop, plan a trip to a nearby winery for a night of wine and food tasting. Experience some of the most refined vintages in the world while learning about the painstaking processes that go into making them. To cap off a fantastic day, settle into downtown Alberobello, where you can relive the memories of the day's adventures over a delicious dinner. |
Charming Trulli or Trulli e Puglia, AlberobelloBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Approx. 5.5 km (3.4 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 100 m (328 ft), Elevation loss: 100 m (328 ft) Today, learn about the intriguing past of Alberobello from a knowledgeable local guide and take a step back in time. Explore this picturesque town and its fascinating history, architecture, and people, and prepare to be enchanted. However, the fun doesn't end there; once the trip is through, we'll board a private transfer and head to the beautiful white city of Ostuni. The city's houses, which have all been whitewashed, provide a stunning visual effect that will leave you speechless. After settling into our luxurious lodgings, we'll stroll through the city's historic core after lunching at a local trattoria. The highlight of the day, however, will come when we leave the city to see the Santa Maria di Agnano archaeological park. We'll learn all about the area's rich history and explore the impressive remains that have been preserved here. We'll head to a traditional Apulian farm as the sun sets, where we may relax under olive trees that are centuries old. After a night of fine dining and experiencing the local cuisine, we'll return to our opulent accommodations in Ostuni via private shuttle. |
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Today you'll be lodged at the Masseria Valente, a luxurious former 18th-century farmhouse situated in the midst of a 37-hectare garden between the sea and Ostuni. Rooms are air-conditioned, have a private entrance and a kitchenette, with an outdoor pool available and free WiFi in public areas. |
Masseria Valente, Ostuni Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
After a hearty breakfast this morning, you'll hop on a train to Lecce in Southern Italy and spend the day exploring the city's charm and beauty. Explore the area's cultural heritage and attractive architecture with the help of a knowledgeable local guide. Learn about the history of some of the city's most famous structures as you visit places like the Duomo and Piazza del Duomo, as well as the Basilica di Santa Croce. After that, take your time shopping or exploring other famous attractions like the Santo Oronzo monument or a papier mâché studio. Make the most of your downtime by making new, unforgettable experiences. Having experienced a day that will live in indelible memory, you can now board the train to return to Ostuni. |
Masseria Valente, Ostuni Breakfast |
Approx. 9.5 km (5.9 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation loss: 100 m (328 ft) As the sun rises, you can expect a day of exciting exploration and discovery. We'll start the day with an interesting guided tour of Ostuni, and then hike to the stunning Dune Costiere Natural Park, which is just outside of town. The Adriatic Sea and its golden sands are waiting for you, and if the weather is right, you may cool down with a dip in them. After a scrumptious lunch in a beachfront restaurant, we'll whisk you away to the world-renowned Matera - a hidden gem made famous by the latest James Bond blockbuster release, No Time to Die (2021). Our accommodations at a stunning cave hotel, right in the heart of the Sassi District, boasts easy access to the city's most iconic attractions. Once we've settled in, you may relax for a bit before we start out on an exciting evening tour of the city. Get ready to be enchanted by its charming alleys and distinctive architecture before relaxing with a traditional Italian aperitivo in the midst of breathtaking scenery. After all that, we'll finish off by taking in a spectacular view of Matera's city lights. You won't want to miss out on the experience of a lifetime! |
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Le Dodici Lune is a luxurious hotel located in the UNESCO site of Matera Sassi. You will enjoy three nights there, in rooms replete with amenities such as wifi, air-conditioning, a minibar, and a refrigerator. The hotel also provides a 24-hour front desk, express check-in and check-out services, and a popular on-site restaurant. |
Le Dodici Lune or Fra i Sassi Residence Breakfast, Lunch |
Approx. 6.5 km (4 miles), 3-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 350 m (1,148 ft), Elevation loss: 350 m (1,148 ft) We'll be going on a moderate hike today to the Murgia plateau, a huge protected region that is home to more than 150 magnificent rupestrian churches from the eighth century. Amazing Byzantine frescoes decorate this former hermits' dwelling, which is now a site of breathtaking beauty. Our canyon descent brings us to a beautiful suspension bridge that spans the valley below. Then, we hike up the ravine's steep terrain on a trail that weaves its way to the summit, where we are rewarded with a panoramic view of the Sassi neighbourhood. The landscape will make you feel as though you've been transported to a different universe. Our day is spent in a lively pasta-making workshop, where we study time-honoured methods while whipping up mouthwatering Italian fare. As the sunsets, we come together for a delightful dinner, sharing stories of our day's adventures and savouring each bite of our homemade culinary creations. Note: Those with vertigo or who have difficulty with heights may wish to opt out of this part of the itinerary; if this is the case, speak to your tour leader at the start of the trip and they will be happy to explain the suspension bridge in more detail, and what options may be open to you if you choose not to take part. |
Le Dodici Lune or Fra i Sassi ResidenceBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Approx. 12.7 km (7.9 miles), 4.5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 180 m (591 ft), Elevation loss: 370 m (1,214 ft) The last climb of the week awaits, as we take a private van to the outskirts of Matera and get started. Along the journey, the route weaves a tale of history and awe as we pass by craggy limestone landscapes that were once home to prehistoric cave houses and rock churches. Travelling through the almond and olive orchards along the road, we are captivated by the sights, sounds, and smells of nature, bringing us peace and harmony in this picturesque Italian village. In the springtime, this region is a veritable visual feast, with hundreds of species of butterflies flitting about and dozens of different kinds of orchids and cyclamen blooming in all their glory. After a vigorous hike, we stop by the Benedictine Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo in Montescaglioso, commonly known as the City of Monasteries, to learn about the area's deep religious heritage. The moment we get back to Matera, we're going to a winery to taste some of the best wines in the area. We finish the week off with a farewell supper, where we share stories from the past week and toast to the new memories we've made together. |
Le Dodoci Lune or Fra i Sassi ResidenceBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
As the sun rises on our final day of adventure, we bid farewell to Matera with a heavy heart after breakfast before transferring back to the airport. You can join a scheduled airport transfer or make your own arrangements for your onward travel. Alternatively extend your stay to immerse yourself in the magic of this fascinating Basilicatan city, for an additional cost please contact us. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
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Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Alberobello
- The finish point is Matera
- The closest major airport to Puglia is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI / LIBD) in Bari and is 69 km from the center of Puglia.
- Getting to your hotel includes 3 options:
Option 1: An airport transfer which are only included with scheduled group transfers from Bari Airport.
Option 2: A private transfer from Bari Airport can be arranged for approximately €116-€140 per vehicle one way, please contact us to enquiry and book.
Option 3: Make your own way to Day 1 hotel. Joining location starts in your accommodation in Alberobello. The journey takes approximately 60 to 70 minutes’ drive from Bari airport. It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport. Please note: the journey is complicated, we therefore recommend joining the group transfer where possible.
Puglia has a wonderful Mediterranean climate with year-round sunshine and just enough rainfall to ensure the green is never too far off. Although Puglia covers a large area it is long and narrow – not more than 19mi (30km) across. This means you’re never far from the sea, which has a moderating effect on the weather. Please note, Puglia can be very hot, reaching high 30s (around 100F) in the summer.
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 2 Leisurely/Moderate.
Level 1 Leisurely: Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk will thrive. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable number of ascents and descents. You normally walk for two to five hours per day; daily ascents will likely be around 985ft to 1,640ft (300m to 500m), perhaps with the odd day around 1,970ft (600m).
Level 3 Moderate: Expect easy, medium-length walks or harder, shorter walks. Some experience is useful, but not essential. Good health and reasonable fitness are important. There will be walks at higher altitudes and some longer, harder days. Generally, though, the underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours; daily ascents will likely be around 1,640ft to 2,625ft (500m to 800m), perhaps with the odd day around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m).
Level 5 Challenging: Fitness is vital with extended walking in mountainous terrain. You might also experience high altitude, challenging climates and remote locations. Trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident in your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents can be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Level 7 Tough: Trekking experience is essential and preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You may encounter extreme altitude and weather conditions and may need to use ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours (sometimes more on occasions). Daily ascents will likely be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Split and optional grades: Where a trip falls between two grades, an intermediate or ‘split’ grade is used. For example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available; in this case, the grade will be highlighted.
During the days, we walk for three to six hours (including lunch and photo stops). The terrain and path type will vary from paved tracks to gravel. Please note, the terrain on the trails near Matera can be uneven or rocky so trekking shoes or boots with good grip are required. The walks are easy, but there are some ascents and descents, so a reasonable amount of fitness is required. Puglia can also be very warm, possibly reaching 35C (95F) between July and September. Walking hours stated in the itinerary are approximates only. Timings stated include lunch and photo stops and will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
In the genuine spirit of expedition travel, we encourage exploration and adventure offering flexibility in challenging environments. This itinerary is only a guide and is subject to change due to weather, sea and other conditions beyond our control.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
