Itria Valley Cycling Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive

Receive a warm welcome to the Itria Valley as you reach your start point in the charming town of Alberobello!

After settling into your accommodations, set out on a walk to acquaint yourself with the ancient rural buildings and famous UNESCO-designated Trulli huts that make this small town unique.

Explore the bustling tourist district of Rione Monti before slipping away onto the peaceful, authentic streets of the lesser-known part of town, Aia Piccola.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Alberobello
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 The Caves of Castellana

This morning following breakfast, a welcome meeting and bike fitting will take place before you set out on the road.

Today you’ll become acquainted with one of the most striking natural phenomena of this region, the karst stone rock formations. Pedalling gentle hills alongside oak forests, vineyards, and olive groves, you will cycle up to Italy’s largest karst stone caves. The fascinating caves of Castellana are yours to discover, running 3 km in length underground and almost 60m deep, comprised of marvellous stalactites and stalagmites jutting in every direction.

Return to the land of Trulli (Alberobello) to enjoy another evening in this marvellous town.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Alberobello
Distance: 35 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Cycle the Loop via Locorotondo

This morning, an enjoyable warm-up of gentle ups and downs on the hills leading to the small white village of Locorotondo awaits you. This famous wine region overlooks the heart of the Itria Valley and boasts beautifully cultivated landscapes of rich vines and grapes. Explore Locorotondo’s old town.

Returning to Alberobello, be sure to catch the sun setting over the Trulli from one of the many panoramic terraces in town.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Alberobello
Distance: 30 km
Meals: Breakfast, wine tasting

Day 4 Cycle to Martina Franca

Leaving the magical land of Trulli behind, you’ll set out on a pleasant flat route today, leading you to your ascent of Martina Franca.

The arch entrance of the old town of Martina Franca will welcome you into its world of rich and elegant Baroque architecture. Palatial homes line the pretty narrow streets that connect a myriad of piazzas. Get lost in the collection of sophisticated shops and boutiques and be sure to sample some of the local specialties, like the “Capocollo” (cured pork) and the “Bocconotto” (shortbread with cream).

Enjoy an evening at your leisure in this stylish city, delighting in its many flavours, sights, and sounds.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Martina Franca
Distance: 17 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Cycle the Cisternino Loop

Today you will encounter one of the most beautiful villages in all of Italy, Cisternino! This small town is famous for its mazy Oriental charm. Peruse its impressive collection of alleys, arches, stairways, and courtyards, exploring its four old districts.

Exploring this picturesque town will have no doubt worked up your appetite! Post up with a carafe of fine local wine and experience the “barbecue butcher” at Fornello Barbecue.

A final ride to cap off your day will take you along a stretch of the new Greenway of the Puglia Aqueduct, the perfect follow-up to this evening’s feast.

Return to Martina Franca, pleasantly charmed by Cisternino and its gastronomical delights.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Martina Franca
Distance: 30 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Gastronomic Experience in Ceglie Messapica

Today’s ride will take you from Martina Franca to the beautiful town of Ostuni by way of Ceglie Messapica. A small town known for its art and cuisine, Ceglie Messapica is also home to a Norman tower rising 30m high.

A visit to the gastronomic capital of the Itria Valley would not be complete without lunch at one of its many famed restaurants. Enjoy the freshest bread and pastries, straight from the ovens fuelled by almond shells, and delight in authentic dishes comprised of the finest local produce and meats. Top off your experience with something sweet—the “cookie of Ceglie” is an excellent choice!

Finally, end the day with a ride to tonight’s accommodations in Ostuni. Enjoy an evening in this old hilltop town and be sure to visit the spectacular Ostuni Cathedral.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ostuni
Distance: 35 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 Cycle the Natural Park Dune Costiere

A slice of heaven is yours today as you ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Natural Park Dune Costiere. Long stretches of beautiful beach, fossil dunes and fragrant Mediterranean vegetation are the perfect settings for your final day on the bike.

Welcomed into a charming Masseria set among century-old olive trees, you’ll sample refined extra virgin olive oil as you learn about the history of this fascinating location. Explore the underground oil mill and enjoy a guided tour (included) of the historic farm.

Return to the road and make your final ascent back to Ostuni, where you’ll enjoy one last evening in paradise.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ostuni
Distance: 30 km
Meals: Breakfast, olive oil tasting

Day 8 Depart Ostuni

If time permits before departing, check out the spectacular work of master craftsman Tonino Zurlo and his delicate creations in olive wood.

Make your way to the airport to depart. Arrivederci to beautiful Puglia!
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast