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 white jewel of Italy - Ostuni, 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 the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello. Spend time exploring this town almost entirely formed of trulli, fairytale-like dwellings with conical grey-stone roofs. Your journey continues exploring the vineyards of Itria Valley and the hilltop town of Locorotondo, a town known for its excellent white wine. Travel to Matera, a hitherto unknown jewel that shot to international popularity thanks to the latest James Bond ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- Meals as specified including all breakfasts, two dinners, and one wine and produce tasting
- 7 nights accommodation (5 hotel, 2 farmhouse) on a twin share basis
- Five days of guided walking; one free day. Tour leader throughout
- Travel by private minivan, bus and train
- Group arrival and departure transfers available
Itinerary
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Embark on a journey where the ethereal meets the earthly, where the very essence of adventure unfolds amidst the fairytale town of Alberobello. Explore the whimsical charm of Alberobello, amidst the trulli-lined streets. 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 to start. |
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Starting at the hotel, we have an aperitif upon arrival before a group dinner, where we can get to know each other a little better. You'll stay at Hotel Ramapendula, a family-friendly hotel in Alberobello, offering an outdoor swimming pool, a typical Apulian restaurant, and bright rooms with garden.
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Hotel Ramapendula, Alberobello (or similar)
Dinner |
Approx. 8mi (13km), Ascent: 492ft (150m); Descent: 492ft (150m); Activity hours: 4hr 30min A swift transfer ushers us to the threshold of our inaugural journey, tracing a path through the tranquil embrace of the Itria Valley. Amidst the timeless tableau of trulli, ancient olive groves, and sprawling vineyards, we tread along rustic country lanes toward the idyllic perch of Locorotondo. Renowned for its laid-back ambiance, picturesque lanes, and exquisite white wines, this hilltop haven offers a sanctuary for the soul. Once in Locorotondo, enjoy free time to explore – the Church of San Giorgio Martire, in the heart of the historic centre, is a masterpiece of Apulian baroque. En route, a pause for a pastoral picnic amidst nature's splendour rejuvenates body and spirit alike, before a brief train or bus ride whisks us back to Alberobello. Dinner is guest's own arrangement. |
Hotel Ramapendula, Alberobello (or similar)Breakfast, Lunch |
Approx. 4mi (6km), Ascent: 328ft (100m); Descent: 328ft (100m); Activity hours: 2 In the morning, we take a private transfer to the whitewashed hilltop city of Ostuni. Ostuni's olive-clad embrace to the storied grounds of Santa Maria di Agnano. After free time, in which you can visit viewpoints and centuries-old churches, we explore the surrounding countryside on foot, walking through ancient olive groves and vineyards overlooking the Adriatic. There, amidst ancient whispers, we tread onward to Agnano Archaeological Park, where we walk a winding path to see church ruins and the bones of a lady within a cave. Lunch is guest's own arrangement. This evening, we have a delicious dinner and stay either in a beautiful masseria – a renovated farmhouse typical of the Apulian region – or in a three-star hotel in the historic centre of Ostuni, where Ostuni's culinary tales dance on our palates, a prelude to tomorrow's unfolding adventures. |
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The hotel in Ostuni is either Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra. 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. |
Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra, Ostuni (or similar)Breakfast, Dinner
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Today is free to discover the many jewels of this beautiful region. We recommend a day trip to the beautiful baroque city of Lecce, hailed as the Florence of the South, a city steeped in timeless allure. Home to more than 40 churches and countless palaces, plus a Roman amphitheatre, you could traverse its enchanting streets, where tales of antiquity intertwine with the present. Amongst the splendour of Basilica di Santa Croce, the grandeur of the duomo, and the heartbeat of Piazza del Duomo, we unravel the tapestry of Lecce's cultural legacy. Alternatively, travel to Bari to explore the historic centre. Aside from the many beautiful old buildings, it is home to the Strada delle Orecchiette, where you can see local women create and sell the ear-shaped pasta, orecchiette. Both destinations are reachable by train from Ostuni. In the evening, we regroup for a delicious dinner. |
Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra, Ostuni (or similar)Breakfast, Dinner |
Approx. 7mi (12km), Descent: 328ft (100m); Activity hours: 3 This morning, we take the train to the stylish seaside town of Polignano a Mare, which is raised above the Adriatic on a limestone cliff. We first walk along the coast for beautiful sea views before exploring the historic centre, where alleys wind among white houses and lead to terraces with more views over the Adriatic. Refreshed, we continue our odyssey towards Matera, which is thought to have been inhabited for around 10,000 years, making it one of the oldest towns in the world. Matera is an Italian gem immortalised by the silver screen in the latest James Bond spectacle, "No Time to Die" (2021). Our sanctuary lies within the heart of the storied Sassi District, mere footsteps from the city's renowned landmarks. After settling in, the day unfolds with free time before exploring Matera's labyrinthine alleys and singular architecture on a guided sunset excursion. As twilight descends, we gather for an Italian aperitivo, a timeless ritual amidst a picturesque backdrop, basking in the glow of Matera's twinkling lights from our elevated vantage point. |
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Our final nights are spent in either Hotel Sassi 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. |
Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence, Matera (or similar)Breakfast |
Approx. 8mi (13km), Ascent: 427ft (130m); Descent: 820ft (250m) Embark on a journey through Matera's timeless landscapes as we delve into the heart of its rich history and natural beauty. Our day begins with a leisurely exploration of two of the Sassi’s historic quarters: the Civita, dominated by the duomo (cathedral), and the Caveoso with its caves, where every alleyway tells a story. Venturing further towards the ridge of Matera’s ravine and continue along a route characterised by Mediterranean scrub and cave complexes dating to the 11th century. We continue the walk surrounded by olive groves and arable land until we reach Serra Pizzuta forest. We return by public bus to our hotel. |
Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence, Matera (or similar)Breakfast |
Approx. 4mi (7km), Ascent: 1,148ft (350m); Descent: 1,148ft (350m); Activity hours: 3hr 30min Today we enjoy a short hike to the Murgia plateau, a vast protected area home to more than 150 Rupestrian churches dating to the eighth century, adorned with Byzantine frescoes and once inhabited by hermits. We hike to the top of the ravine, following a pathway that ends with a spectacular view of the Sassi district. In the afternoon, we walk back to Matera for a guided tour. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, we wander the narrow alleys of the cave-dwelling district and learn about the history of this fascinating place. Back in Matera, we enjoy a delicious produce and wine tasting in the historic centre and the rest of the day is free to discover the city independently. |
Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence, Matera (or similar)Breakfast |
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. Guests can arrive at any time on Day 1. The start hotel is approximately a 1hr 10min drive from the airport.
- The finish point is Matera
- The closest airport to Alberobello is Bari Airport (BRI).
- Getting to your hotel includes 3 options:
Option 1: An airport group transfer from Bari Airport (BRI) which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK.
Option 2: A private transfer from Bari Airport can be arranged at an additional cost.
Option 3: Make your own way to Day 1 hotel.
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 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 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 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 90 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.
