Walking in Puglia & Matera

8 Days
From CAD 2940
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Unknown

Rating


(20 reviews)

Experience Overview

The heel of Italy’s boot, formed of the Puglia and Basilicata regions, offers trails through olive groves and towns seemingly plucked from a storybook – ideal for a culture-packed walking adventure. This trip begins among the fairytale trullihouses of Alberobello and continues to the highlights of the region: the Itria Valley hills; the white city of Ostuni; and the cave town of Matera − 10,000 years old with a spectacular ravine-edge location.
Profile
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (5 hotel, 2 farmhouse) — Five days of guided walking; one free day — Group normally 4 to 16, plus local leader. Minimum age: 16 — Travel by private minivan, bus and train — Option to travel by train to your adventure
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (5 hotel, 2 farmhouse) — Five days of guided walking; one free day — Group normally 4 to 16, plus local leader. Minimum age: 16 — Travel by private minivan, bus and train — Option to travel by train to your adventure
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us. Walking hours: Three to six, including lunch and photo stops. Walking durations stated in the itinerary are approximations and vary depending on the group’s pace.Terrain and path type: Vary from paved tracks to gravel. 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; however, there are some ascents and descents, so a reasonable level of fitness is required.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, two dinners and one wine and local produce tasting are included. The regional cuisine has strong links to the land and sea. This area is a paradise for food lovers and the abundance of delicious vegetables also makes it a great destination for vegetarians. A selection of the food on offer includes: the pasta delicacy orecchiette, which is typically served with a sauce of turnip-tops or fresh tomato and sheep’s ricotta; cavatelli pasta with pulses; aubergine (eggplant) and parmesan bake; grilled fish and seafood; burrata (soft mozzarella and cream cheese); plus excellent wines.
Transportation
A private minibus is used for the airport transfers. We use a mix of private and public transport (train and bus) during the week.
Joining Instructions
Key information Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately Airport: Bari Airport (BRI) Getting to the start hotel The start hotel is approximately a 1hr 10min drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are: Take an Exodus transfer  Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer. Make your own way  It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport, but the journey is complicated. We therefore recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If not, we can arrange a private transfer prior to departure for approximately €90-€105 for the vehicle. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative. Catching your return flight The trip ends in Matera, approximately 45 minutes from Bari Airport. There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
Puglia has a Mediterranean climate with year-round sunshine and just enough rainfall to ensure the green is never too far away. Although Puglia covers a large area, it is long and narrow – not more than 18mi (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, particularly in summer when temperatures can near 40C (104F).
Spending Money
For the meals not included, allow €10-€20 for lunch and €20-€30 for dinners. A coffee costs around €1-€1.50 and a beer is usually €4-€5. Optional activities: — Round-trip train to Polignano a Mare: €7-€10 — Round-trip train to Lecce: €12-€15 Local taxes: Many Italian cities have introduced a tourist tax for non-residents. The local administration oversees the tax, which will be collected by the accommodation provider at check-in or check-out. This fee varies depending on the hotel category, the season and number of days of stay. It is usually between €1 and €4 per person per night. For this trip, please allow approximately €7-€10 for the week.
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work. Most of our travellers wish to tip their guides in appreciation of their help and friendliness. This, of course, is in no way compulsory and depends on the service received. For this trip we recommend a starting point of €20 per person for the guide.

Highlights

  • — Hike the finest trails in Puglia and Matera, guided by our expert tour leader — Wander among the fairytale trulli houses of Alberobello — Discover the extraordinary cave town of Matera, among the oldest towns in the world — Explore the viewpoints and ancient churches in the all-white hilltop town of Ostuni — Walk over the Itria Valley hills to Locorotondo, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 4264

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Moderate

TransportTransport: the week.

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: TEV

StartStarts: Alberobello, Italy

FinishFinishes: Alberobello, Italy

DurationDuration: 8 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Unknown

Includes

  • — All breakfasts, two dinners, one wine and produce tasting — All accommodation — Tour leader throughout — Group arrival and departure transfers available

Accommodation

Three- and four-star hotels
Stay in three unique destinations: the trulli town of Alberobello, the white city of Ostuni and the cave town of Matera. Below are the hotels typically used on this trip. Alberobello: Hotel Ramapendula or Hotel Silva (nights 1-2) We start either in Hotel Ramapendula (above) or Hotel Silva. The former has an outdoor swimming pool, Apulian restaurant and a location close to the UNESCO-listed centre of Alberobello. The latter is also a short walk from the centre, with individually themed rooms and a bar. Ostuni: Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra (nights 3-4) Our second accommodation is either Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra (above). 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. Matera: Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence (nights 5-7) Our final nights are spent in either Hotel Sassi (above) 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.

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 2940 (CAD 368 /day)

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Start Alberobello

This walking trip starts in Alberobello, a town almost entirely formed of trulli, fairytale-like dwellings with conical grey-stone roofs. The origin of these UNESCO-protected limestone houses is obscure; however, local farmers claim they were originally built to evade taxes. When the tax inspectors were nearby, the dry-stone walls could easily be dismantled by removing the keystone above the door, and quickly rebuilt after the inspection. Accommodation: Hotel Ramapendula or Hotel Silva (or similar)

2
Day 2: Walk over the Itria Valley hills; visit Locorotondo, known for its superb wine

We start with a walk to Locorotondo. Sitting on a hilltop, our destination is among the most beautiful villages in Italy and renowned for the white wine produced at Cantina Sociale, the local winery. Following narrow country lanes, we walk over the Itria Valley hills, which are dotted with olive trees, vineyards and trulli. At the end of the day, we take a short train or bus ride back to Alberobello. Accommodation: Hotel Ramapendula or Hotel Silva (or similar)

3
Day 3: Morning visit to the white city of Ostuni; afternoon walk through olive groves and vineyards; visit Agnano Archaeological Park

In the morning, we take a private transfer to the whitewashed hilltop city of Ostuni. 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. Along the way, we stop at Agnano Archaeological Park, where we walk a winding path to see church ruins and the bones of a lady within a cave. 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 four-star hotel in the historic centre of Ostuni. Accommodation: Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra (or similar)

4
Day 4: Free day. Optional activities include visiting the baroque city of Lecce or the picture-perfect coastal village of Polignano a Mare

Today is free to discover the many jewels of this beautiful region. We recommend a day trip to the beautiful baroque city of Lecce, known as the Florence of the South, and home to more than 40 churches and countless palaces, plus a Roman amphitheatre. Alternatively, travel to the picturesque coastal town of Polignano a Mare, which is perched atop a limestone cliff rising from the Adriatic. Both destinations are reachable by train from Ostuni. In the evening, we regroup for a delicious dinner. Accommodation: Masseria Morrone or Hotel La Terra (or similar)

5
Day 5: Morning walk to the coast; transfer to Matera

This morning, to the coast, where we have time to relax on a beach or swim in the mild waters of the Adriatic Sea (depending on the season). In the afternoon, we head to the cave town of Matera, which is thought to have been inhabited for around 10,000 years, making it one of the oldest towns in the world. James Bond fans may recognise it as the scenic background for a thrilling car chase in No Time to Die (2021), while scenes for Wonder Woman (2017) and The Passion of the Christ (2004) were also shot here. Its crumbling beauty is undoubtedly a lure for film directors and location scouts, but it’s the ancient Sassi districts, formed of ancient cave dwellings dug into the limestone, that are the true star here. Our hotel is in the middle of the sassi; after check-in, we enjoy our first glimpse of the enchanting alleys and unique architecture of this troglodyte town. Accommodation: Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence (or similar)

6
Day 6: Short walk in Matera’s Rock Churches Park and guided sightseeing in Sassi district; wine and produce tasting

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. Accommodation: Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence (or similar)

7
Day 7: Walk in Matera and its surroundings, along sections of the Cammino Materano

Today we explore Matera and further afield, walking sections of the Cammino Materano – a hiking trail linking Matera and Brindisi. After a hearty breakfast, we set off from our hotel and cross two of the Sassi’s historic quarters: the Civita, dominated by the duomo (cathedral), and the Caveoso with its caves. We head 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. Accommodation: Hotel Sassi or Fra I Sassi Residence (or similar)

8
Day 8: End Matera

The trip ends in Matera after breakfast. If you’d like to explore this wonderful destination a little longer, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Tour Operator

Exodus Travel

It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.

In Business Since 1974

Reviews

 

Jan Abbott   -  Traveled, May 2024

Only 3 walks throughout the week The trip was well organised and each of the three places we stayed were fascinating Most Inspirational Moment Wandering the little alleys of Matera and enjoying the wonderful food of the region Thoughts on Group Leader Ioana was wonderful in all aspects Advice for Potential Travellers The walks are leisurely but interesting. Suggestions The farmhouse near Ostuni was amazing. The other two hotels were different to those advertised. In Alberobello my husband and I were in an apartment 5 minute walk away from the hotel; in Matera the hotel was much more like a conference hotel; it had no character and the staff were not too friendly.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/24/2024

 

Fiona Kaplan   -  Traveled, May 2024

Fabulous first walking holiday! This trip exceeded my expectations in both the excellent organisation and expert talks by Ioana and the wide range of activities around walking, sightseeing, free time and gastronomy! ?? Most Inspirational Moment First view of Matera town across the ravine Thoughts on Group Leader Perfect! Ioana has the ideal mix of careful attention to detail, awareness of different individual needs and preferences, ability to bring the history and culture of the region to life, lovely sense of humour and complete unflappability. 10/10. Advice for Potential Travellers Bring layers you can peel off as you walk if it is a hot day; bring a serious sunhat with brim and UV protection; something to cover shoulders; strong boots or trail shoes for support on any uneven ground; large water bottle. Suggestions Superb local specialities available, both food and wine, do not miss these! No formal clothes required for restaurants, I managed with just one carry-on case.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/23/2024

 

Sue Livock   -  Traveled, May 2024

Walking in Puglia and Matera Private Departure We had very good service from the Exodus sales team in planning the trip for our Nordic walking group. The itinerary was very well planned and gave us the chance to experience walking and cultural visits in this fascinating area of Italy. Overall the holiday exceeded my expectations. Most Inspirational Moment Our first view of the Sassi in Matera Thoughts on Group Leader Marion was an excellent leader who ensured all members of our group had the best time. Advice for Potential Travellers Unless you have an early departure you will not have time to do the activities described on Day 1. Check what type of adapter is needed for Italy. Suggestions A reminder just before the final balance was due would have been useful - either to all party members or just the party leader. Information as to the type of adapter required - 3 round pins.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/27/2024

 

Matthew Smith   -  Traveled, April 2024

A glorious week A hugely enjoyable immersion in the countryside and towns of Puglia and Basilicata.The itinerary is well-designed, as the highlight for us was undoubtedly Matera, and I was pleasantly surprised at how little down time we had. The walking is undemanding, but the scenery is beautiful, and I can imagine in high summer the heat could become a problem. A great introduction to an area I knew very little about, other than enjoying the excellent wines it produces. Most Inspirational Moment Matera. Seeing it from across the ravine and then up close was breathtaking . Thoughts on Group Leader Ioana was outstanding. She was professional, deeply knowledgeable, and great company. She anticipated the needs of a disparate (but very agreeable) group of walkers and made an excellent trip into an unforgettable experience. Exodus seem to have a knack of engaging outstanding tour leaders for their Italian holidays - she is the third we have met, and all have been outstanding. Advice for Potential Travellers Although the walks are not excessive, and the ascent/descent is moderate, it's well worth packing your walking boots. I found the combination of hard services and occasional rocky sections were surprisingly tough on the feet, and I was glad of the thicker soles on the days I wore my boots. Poles are definitely an optional extra, unless you are an habitual user. Suggestions Food and drink (especially local wines)were surprisingly good value, so we didn't mind eating out most nights. We went to Lecce on the free day - easy transfer, interesting city, not excessively crowded.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/12/2024

 

Anne Brown   -  Traveled, April 2024

Walking in Puglia and Matera (April 2024) A very interesting range of regions, from the picturesque trulli houses of Puglia to the peace and quiet of the Masseria Morrone and finally the amazing cave dwellings of the Sassi district of Matera. The walks ranged from paths through fields dotted with ancient olive trees to shady forests and finally to wide open vistas in the Basilicata region Most Inspirational Moment The walk along the Murgia plateau with horned cows complete with cowbells, Spring flowers everywhere and beautiful views across to the Sassi district of Matera. Thoughts on Group Leader Tancredi was a very knowledgeable and helpful guide who always kept us informed of the programme for each day. The hike across the suspension bridge was not possible due to weather conditions, but Tancredi handled the change in programme very smoothly and also went out of his way to assist with suggestions for our free time, including an unscheduled visit to a beautiful rock church and a Benedictine Abbey on our last morning which was really special. Advice for Potential Travellers I used cash rather than credit card more than I had anticipated but this was not a major problem as ATMs were easily accessible. Suggestions A lovely holiday - highly recommended!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/04/2024

 

Christina Cooper   -  Traveled, April 2024

It works A well balanced choice of 3 exceptional places. Day 2 was probably the best walk along the Itria Valley. Not using the Matera suspension bridge limited the walk route. For interest we did cross it on our own. Most Inspirational Moment Waking up to look out over Matera from The Sassi Hotel. The view across to the sea from the beautifully adapted Masseria Morrone. Ancient Olive trees as living history. Thoughts on Group Leader Knowledgeable in his own field. More information would have been helpfully shared with clearer language. Advice for Potential Travellers Pack all the usual requirements for day walks at home. Suggestions I actually found it very pleasant that this was a small group of 4. We made a cohesive team. This holiday began with a pretty high basic cost, so the necessity to purchase so many meals out, although a good way to relate to the place, was a significant extra cost.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/02/2024

 

Trevor Breedon   -  Traveled, March 2024

Wonderful week We had a marvellous time walking in Puglia and Basilicata, an area completely unknown to us before now. Such beautiful towns and villages to explore in Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce and the fascinating Matera and gentle day walks in surrounding countryside. Most Inspirational Moment Matera has to be a highlight. We stayed in a charming cave hotel in the heart of the old Sassi area, ideal for investigating the many enchanting alleyways and nearby ravines. It would have been easy to spend a whole week there. Thoughts on Group Leader Tancredi proved to be an exceptional leader with a thorough knowledge of the area, having been acquainted with it for much of his life. Nothing seemed to be too much trouble for him. He was engaging, helpful and knowledgeable and got on with every member of our 12-strong group. Advice for Potential Travellers The walking is pleasant rather than spectacular for much of the time but thoroughly enjoyable. The weather for our trip in March was ideal. I can imagine it might become extremely hot in midsummer, when of course crowds will also descend on beautiful places such as Matera and Ostuni. Suggestions It took two flights to reach Bari, via Rome from Heathrow, with a similar reverse schedule on return. It made for long days going out on coming back. I think I would have been tempted to seek out a direct flight from the UK had I known.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/27/2024

 

Trevor Acreman   -  Traveled, November 2023

Really enjoyed it but the walks the least good bit! We visited lovely towns and stayed in nice hotels and ate good food! Having been to this area before it was as expected and lovely to see again. I’d never been on a walking holidays and last time in Puglia I toured by bike. Whilst some of the walks were lovely, past aged olive trees etc, others were pretty ordinary. The guide was great and passionate about his local area. The group was ok and as usual you just avoid the naysayers. Being a cycle tourist an evening walk is usually a nice change. It only struck me on the holiday that on a walking holiday you walk during the day and then in the evening………….go for a walk!! Certainly recommend Puglia but not sure about the walking?

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/24/2023

 

Janet Donbavand   -  Traveled, October 2023

Trulli houses and cave dwellings This trip is a good mix of walking and sightseeing; it was great to be able to visit both the trulli houses and also the cave dwellings of Matera. Most Inspirational Moment On a walk meeting up with someone who was renovating some trulli houses, who invited us in to have a look at what he was doing. One member of the group was feeling unwell so he and his wife also kindly drove her to meet us at the next town. Thoughts on Group Leader His knowledge of flora and fauna was very good. There were various issues on the trip which he did his best to rectify. Advice for Potential Travellers If one of the reasons you want to come is to cross the suspension bridge, it was closed to groups on our trip Suggestions There were issues such as the walk on the last day when we were stopped by someone who said we were walking on private land. This needs to be checked before future trips

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/21/2023

 

Frances Rushworth   -  Traveled, August 2023

Excellent trip The Walking in Puglia and Matera guided tour gives an excellent introduction to the heel of Italy. This trip stayed at three hotels, all very good. Comfortable and clean rooms, great breakfast choices plus swimming pools at two of the three. The walking was varied from strolling through olive groves in Puglia to scrambling around the rocky gorge at Matera. The towns with trulli houses and the incredible rock city of Matera were memorable. Most Inspirational Moment So many highlights! The best day we walked down through olive groves of ancient characterful trees to the coast, where we swam in the Adriatic and had a delicious sea-food lunch. Thoughts on Group Leader Gabriele was the best leader you could wish for: kind, knowledgeable and unfailingly enthusiastic, he went above and beyond to deal with unexpected problems and ensure we all had a wonderful time. The good comradeship of the group was in large part down to his efforts. Brilliant! Advice for Potential Travellers It was unexpectedly hot in late September at over 30 degrees. Bring water flasks/bladders - we were drinking 2 to 3 litres each on the longer walks (8 miles). In most places the tap water is safe, but not at the rural masseria hotel. Proper walking boots and poles were a huge help in the walking around the Matera gorge, and sturdy walking shoes or sandals with good grips are essential for the slippery limestone steps and paving of the city's steep streets.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/16/2023

 

Jo James   -  Traveled, July 2023

All about the sightseeing This trip is about the sightseeing and exploring the towns in the region, Matera and the trulli were fascinating. The walks are as described in the notes and with the exception of the Matera ravine walk pleasant but nothing special. The paths are flat and easy to navigate, not one for serious hikers. The accommodation was good , the food was typically Italian, lots of pasta, pane pomodoro (tomato bread) and mozzarella. I suspect coeliacs may find it a challenge unless they like tomato and Mozarella salad! Most Inspirational Moment The ravine walk in Matera Thoughts on Group Leader Tancredi was excellent and took great care to see everyone could cope in the heat Advice for Potential Travellers Take plenty of cash, restaurants will not take multiple card payments.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/22/2023

 

M B   -  Traveled, June 2023

Great Trip I really enjoyed this trip. The hikes were a great way to explore the landscape. Tancredi our group leader was very knowledgeable about the culture and history of the places we visited and also helped us make the most of our free time. I found all the places we visited unique and interesting. The week was packed with a lot to see and do but was planned well. Most Inspirational Moment Matera and learning about the Sassi districts. Thoughts on Group Leader Tancredi was a great leader and made the week what it was. He was attentive throughout and made sure everyone was ok given the high temperatures in July. Advice for Potential Travellers In July be prepared for the heat and early starts for the hikes.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/15/2023

 

Debbie Wilkes   -  Traveled, June 2023

Appropriate We thoroughly enjoyed the trip with its variety of locations and walks. Most Inspirational Moment Matera Thoughts on Group Leader Tancredi was one of the best Exodus leaders that we have met. He was knowledgeable, looked after everyone (especially in the extreme heat) and went out of his way to make sure that any request was assisted.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/08/2023

 

Donna S   -  Traveled, May 2023

This region is well worth a visit A lovely area of Italy to visit, with good characterful hotels utilised for the trip, great food and great customer service experienced throughout. I was concerned, as it was my first walking holiday, that I may not be able to keep up with the group, but I was fine as the pace was good and we had breaks to rest and break up the walks, which weren’t too difficult and reasonably flat on most occasions. Most Inspirational Moment I enjoyed staying in and experiencing Alberobello with its trulli, unfortunately the weather wasn't great (wet), but a lovely interesting place to visit. Matera is another highlight of this trip with its cave dwellings, numerous places to visit and lovely walks. Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader Joana couldn't do enough for the group, she researched train times for the 'free day' for everyone, even though we were all going to different locations. She was well organised and did her utmost to help if we had any questions. The ruck sack she carried on the walks was huge, what with carrying bottles of wine and snacks for everyone. A knowledgeable and interesting person to have as our leader on this trip. Advice for Potential Travellers Take warm clothes for the evenings and waterproofs just in case, boots may not be needed just good walking shoes. However if the weather is wet, the pavements become slippy so a good grip sole is needed. Unfortunately the weather was very changeable during the stay, so the waterproofs and warmer clothes were needed. Visit Polignano a Mare and Monopoli on your free day, both are pretty little seaside places and easily reachable on the train from Ostuni. Great gelato also, always tastes better by the sea. Suggestions Enjoy this beautiful region of Italy.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/20/2023

 

Wendy Garman   -  Traveled, April 2024

Excellent Puglia and Matera holiday Excellent holiday and guide . Despite the rain we had a wonderful time . Good itinerary especially Matera Most Inspirational Moment Matera , and learning about the “ shame of Italy “ Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent . I was not able to do a couple of the walks due to knee pain , but Joanna was so helpful arranging alternatives and taxis A very caring leader Advice for Potential Travellers Not really that’s easy walking . Take walking boots and sticks . Some difficult paths on the ridge of Matera Suggestions Brilliant holiday . Loved the food and accommodation at the farmhouse near Ostuna

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/13/2023

 

Jackey Phillips   -  Traveled, April 2023

More sightseeing that walking Everyone had told me how wonderful Puglia was, so my expectations were high, but I have to admit I was a bit disappointed in the scenery. This trip is more about visiting the trulli houses in Alberobello and the ancient city of Matera, which were both fascinating and it was interesting to learn about the history of both. But the walks were not the most interesting, apart from the beautiful spring flowers and the second from last one, across the ravine from Matera. It was a shame the suspension bridge was out of action. Matera was wonderful. We had a 2 hour guided tour, but it was a shame it was done after we had been on a walk in the morning, followed by a lengthy lunch at the pasta laboratory – not to be recommended due to the surly manager! The trip was slightly marred by a few days of rain. The accommodation was all very good and we were lucky that the group all gelled well, with positive good humour. The food was very good Most Inspirational Moment Matera. Fascinating to wander the streets. You enter down steps from the larger, new city but once in the old city, the views are incredible. Thoughts on Group Leader Joana was an excellent guide. Very helpful and worked hard to ensure everyone was ok Advice for Potential Travellers On our free day we went to Polignano and Monopoli and were very pleased that we had. Both are by the sea and wonderful scenery and small, quiet streets to wander around. If you are expecting this trip to be one of excellent walks, this may not be the right one. It is an expensive trip, with the single supplement and I didn’t feel it was good value. The food is expensive, but generally very good. We only had short time on the beach after the walk from the farmhouse. Not really enough time for a swim and the sea was quite rough. Hardly worth taking a costume, although the farmhouse had a pool, so in summer, you could swim there.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/08/2023

 

Marcelle Trusco   -  Traveled, December 2022

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/28/2022

 

Katie Watt   -  Traveled, October 2022

Magic in Matera A trip filled with country side walks, fresh produce and wine. The highlights have to be seeing the Trulli’s in Alberobello and watching the stars in Matera Most Inspirational Moment 1. Matera - the first time you see the view it really is breath taking. The Hotel Sassi where we stay is incredible, I would definitely recommend post tour accom here 2. Trulli's in Alberobello - learning about the history of how they used to live in them. Something very unique 3. Optional day trip to Lecce - I would 100% recommend this, architectural surprises around every corner Thoughts on Group Leader Very friendly and informative Advice for Potential Travellers The walks are generally leisurely, but I would recommend taking trekking shoes or boots with good grip for the Matera Canyon walk. Suggestions Personally the Matera Canyon walk with the Suspension Bridge was my favourite walk of the trip. You can actually see the bridge from the start of the walking point, so if you decide its not for you on the day you can explore Matera instead where there is plenty to do and see - don't let it put you off!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/23/2022

 

Rose Somerset   -  Traveled, August 2022

Great trip This was a great holiday . Andrea was an excellent guide , we visited some really interesting places on and off the beaten track. Most Inspirational Moment Arriving in Matera Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent - nothing was too much trouble and he knew so much about the local area. Advice for Potential Travellers Book it Suggestions Thanks for a great holiday

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/15/2022

 

Silpa Shah  -  Traveled, June 2022

Excellent! I went in July and our itinerary was as the Trip Notes. We were a group of 8 and everyone got on so well. I enjoyed staying at all the hotels: Ramapendula, Masseria and Sassi. Breakfast at the 1st and 3rd hotels was excellent but somewhat basic at the Masseria. My room at each hotel met my needs, so very happy with what I was given. The walks were interesting except the 2nd half down from Montescaglioso where we seemed to be walking aimlessly with nothing of interest around! Most Inspirational Moment All the towns we visited were so interested however two tours I especially loved (1) discovering Matera's UNESCO 'Sassi' district which involved a hike to the Murgia plateau, crossing the suspension bridge, hike to the top of the ravine ending with a spectacular viewpoint of Matera's Sassi district; (2) the guided tour of Matera by the local guide where he shared his knowledge of the cave-dwelling district and his own family's personal journey from cave dwelling to the new apartment in the 'new' town, and we also learned the history of this fascinating place. I also really enjoyed and welcomed the swim in the sea after our 2.5 hours walk from Masseria. Thoughts on Group Leader Antonino (Nino) was excellent from start to finish and he spoke very good English. Nino would always brief us the evening before of what to expect the following day. Nino was attentive, responsive, generous, patient, kind and efficient in dealing with any niggles we may have had. Could not fault him. He thoroughly knows his history of the Puglia and Matera region, including recommending restaurants and food to try. Advice for Potential Travellers I went in July and the heat was searing every day, ranging from 30 degrees upwards so make sure you have plenty of water, sun block, a hat and comfortable walking boots. Sandals you could wear in some terrain but not all so walking boots is a better choice. Take a small towel to dry yourself when you visit the beach. Credit card is accepted widely but useful to carry some local currency. Make sure you're fit enough for a lot of walking. Suggestions Just enjoy the experience and go with the flow.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/12/2022

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