PUGLIA: SASSI CAVES, TRULLI AND THE SPARKLING ADRIATIC
A RELAXED CYCLING WONDERLAND
Ride through the “heel” of Italy: the rocky landscapes of Matera and the sunny and warm Puglia with its rolling olive groves, timeless villages, and stunning coastline. This biking adventure showcases the best of southern Italy.
Recommended Cycling Level
★★☆☆☆
In our experience, we think you will enjoy this specific tour if you are a cyclist with good bike handling skills, ability to accomplish multiple climbs of moderate grade (6-7%), the fitness to be on the bicycle for 4-5 hours a day, and the ability to ride safely with other cyclists in a line.
Cycle from town to fairy-tale town through rolling olive groves, along the stunning coast, where towering cliffs drop into the sparkling Adriatic.
Puglia’s dry, warm climate produces some of the world’s greatest olive oil and the finest varieties of wheat. Cycle winding roads through the beautiful bounty. As the heel of the Italian “boot”, Puglia has the longest coastline of any Italy mainland region, and our routes take you along the finest sections.
Fish just-caught from the sea, olives from nearby groves, just baked breads and local specialties such as orecchiette pasta make dining in Puglia a flavor sensation.
Even the names are magical: the Sassi cave dwelling of Matera, the circular trulli homes of Alberobello. Learn how for centuries people have made the most of this fascinating landscape.
After arriving in Matera, you’ll settle in and meet with the mechanic for your bike fit, getting your first feel for the Pinarello. In the evening, you’ll get to know your fellow travelers and the guides who will accompany you on this incredible adventure and we’ll come together for a welcoming dinner.
On your first day of riding, you’ll leave the hilltop city of Matera and cycle through the breathtaking Murgia Park, one of Italy’s most spectacular rocky landscapes. This stunning area is known for its dramatic gorges, caves, and ancient rock-hewn churches. The route takes you to Montascaglioso, a historic hilltop town with panoramic views, and then onward to Ginosa di Puglia. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour of Matera
You will walk through the alleys of the historical center admiring important artistic and architectonical works and then you can arrive at the panoramic viewpoint of Piazza Duomo. During the tour, you can visit rock church, cave house and historical cellar.
We leave our hotel in Matera, bidding farewell to its iconic caves and timeless charm, and begin our journey toward Locorotondo. Known for its enchanting white-washed houses and unique circular layout, this picturesque town is nestled in the greenest, more tranquil part of Puglia.
Ancient olive trees and quiet, narrow country roads set the scene for our ride to Ostuni, the stunning “white city” perched on a hilltop, known for its dazzling whitewashed buildings and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. For those choosing the longer route, the journey continues to Grottaglie, a town famous for its centuries-old tradition of ceramic craftsmanship.
Discover the secrets of Apulian cuisine: under the expert guidance of our chef, you will learn how to prepare delicious homemade focaccia, bread and pasta.
We leave Locorotondo and begin our ride, heading toward the stunning coastal town of Polignano a Mare. This unforgettable journey takes us mostly along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Polignano a Mare, our last destination, is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, charming old town, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
We save the best for last as we ride along scenic country roads to Alberobello, a town famous for its unique trulli houses. These white, cone-roofed buildings give the town a magical, fairytale charm and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the perfect place to end our journey. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a final special dinner together, celebrating the amazing experiences we’ve shared.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Experience the charm of Lo Stemma Luxury, situated in the heart of Matera, where historical sites are just a stroll away. Enjoy luxurious accommodations that blend modern amenities with traditional stone architecture. With personalized concierge service and local dining options nearby, your stay promises to be unforgettable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Experience the charm of Ottolire Resort, where stunning views of the Itria Valley and traditional Trulli architecture create a unique escape. Enjoy the luxurious outdoor swimming pool and indulge in wellness treatments that utilize local ingredients. Located near the historic center of Locorotondo, it’s a perfect spot to relax and explore.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Giovì Relais is situated in the heart of Polignano a Mare, providing easy access to breathtaking coastal views and local attractions. Guests can enjoy elegantly appointed rooms within a historic building, reflecting the area's rich heritage. The rooftop terrace offers stunning panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, while a complimentary breakfast featuring local delicacies adds to a delightful stay.
Local Italian guides, daily guided rides with two levels of difficulty, van support with professional mechanic, daily laundry service for your bike clothingLocal Italian guides
Pinarello Dogma F, Pinarello Dogma X, Lombardo Garda rental included.
Full kit Andiamo: cycling bibs, jersey, cap, socks, summer gloves, light wind vest and arm warmers by Castelli, 2 water bottles, Rear lights, computer mount for Wahoo or Garmin, Shimano or Look pedals, Assioma power meter pedals compatible with Shimano or Look cleats (available at extra cost), Kask Protone Helmet rental (available extra at cost)
2 nights in Matera
2 nights in Locorotondo
2 nights in Polignano a Mare
Optional extra nights at Garda Bike Hotel in Peschiera del Garda (Lake Garda area) before or after.
Breakfast
Cycling food (sandwiches, beverages and energy supplies during rides)
Lunch in hotel or in typical restaurant during the rides – Lunch not included on arrival day
Multi-course Dinners at restaurants specializing in local cuisine – 4 Dinners included – 1 dinner NOT Included
Non cyclists always enjoy breakfast, dinner and after ride special activities with partner, Regional highlights suggested
Group van transportation for participants from Matera – Locorotondo – Polignano
Private transfer from Bari airport available on request, at extra charge
Cancellation – Assistance – Medical expense Reimbursement – Luggage Insurance. For more info click here
MASSAGE: Massage Area with masseur and physiotherapist available with prior arrangement.
Immerse yourself in the diverse and spectacular landscapes of Puglia, from its rugged coastlines and rolling hills to its charming historic towns, all offering an exceptional, memorable experience.
Indulge in Puglia’s exceptional cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, rustic bread, and local specialties such as orecchiette pasta with sun-ripened tomatoes, all
Our guides scout and design custom routes for each day. There are 2 levels of guided rides, one for avid cyclists and one for more relaxed riders. Van support always on the rides.
Don’t bother with the hassle of packing and carrying your bike and risking damage during travel. Our luxury bike makes it easy to just show up and ride.
Size available: from 43 to 60
Group set: Shimano DURA-ACE R9270 Di2 – 12 speed electronic, hydraulic disc brakes, Chainrings DURA ACE 34 / 50, Cassette 11 / 34
Tires: Vittoria 30 mm
The DOGMA is a high-performance race bike with aggressive geometry. This bike is recommended for high level athletes who regularly ride high performance race bikes and are accustomed to the leaned over and low position, as well as the snappy handling, of this race bike.
Size available: from 43 to 60
Group set: Shimano DURA-ACE R9270 Di2 – 12 speed electronic, hydraulic disc brakes, Chainrings DURA ACE 34 / 50, Cassette 11 / 34
Tires: Vittoria 30mm
The new Pinarello Dogma X is a top of the line Pinarello road bike, with a frame designed for endurance and therefore more comfortable than the Dogma F, but still designed to be a high performing bike.
Year of the bike: 2026
Size available: 43 – 46 – 49 – 52
Weight: 16kg
Group set: Shimano GRX 1×11 speed – Chainrings 44t – Cassette 11-42t
Battery: BOSCH Compac Tube 400Wh
Saddle: Selle Royal
Handlebar & Stem: FSA AGX
Wheels: Fulcrum E-Racing 400
Tires: Vittoria 37
The Garda is a stylish and versatile e-bike designed for those who love to ride with freedom and ease.
The Bosch motor delivers smooth and quiet assistance, making every pedal stroke effortless and natural. Its comfortable geometry and modern design ensure a relaxed riding position and great control on any terrain.
Since 2005, we create cycling holidays for guests from all around the world. Our home is Garda Bike Hotel, on Lake Garda, one of the most famous bike hotel. Each year we create unique cycling experiences for over 1000 guests.
We are not a foreign agency that sells trips and outsources the management of clients to third parties. Nor are we just local cyclists, who operate without any controls. Nicola, Davide, Elisa or Alberto are always present in person with our staff at every event.
We are a certified tour operator, with all the official documentation. We are Italians and our headquarters are in italy.
We include with all our tours insurance for cancellation, assistance, medical expense, reimbursement, lost luggage. Not all tour operators include this service.
Most of our trips will run when between 3–4 people are booked. We have never cancelled a trip due to low numbers. However, there is no guarantee of this in the future. If we cancel a trip, we will give you full credit to be applied to any other one of our trips within 2 years.