Hike, Bike and Feast in Italy's Puglia and Matera
Pedal, hike & munch your way through Southern Italy’s foodie paradise, hitting trails to UNESCO-listed towns, olive groves & iconic trulli
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guidesAccommodation
2 nights in a unique cave hotel and 3 nights in a traditional masseria (converted farmhouse)Meals
All breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners; olive oil and wine tastings; plus local bread, pasta and cheese-making demosTransfers
All transfers from Day 2 onwards, and a group departure transfer to Bari Airport on Day 6Equipment & Taxes
E-bike hire with helmet; plus all city tourism taxesSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
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What's it like?
Hike the stunning Matera Canyon and centuries-old olive groves in the heart of the Itria Valley, exploring charming white-washed villages along the way
Pedal e-bikes along rural lanes and through rolling vineyards, reaching the natural oasis of San Giuliano Lake and the conical trulli houses of Alberobello
Indulge in mouthwatering meals, sample regional olive oil and wines at tasting sessions, and learn the secrets behind producing local cheese, focaccia and pasta
Kick back poolside at a restored farmhouse deep in the Ostuni countryside and marvel at the charm of Matera’s Sassi from a historic cave hotel
Key Information
Day 1
Welcome to Matera, the city of stone!
Your adventure starts in the breathtaking city of Matera, nestled in the region of Basilicata in southern Italy. You are free to arrive at any time today, as Matera is easily accessible via frequent public bus services from Bari Airport. Matera is one of the most extraordinary destinations in Italy with its ancient troglodyte settlements, known as the Sassi, carved from limestone and perched on the edge of a deep ravine. Habitation of the Sassi cave dwellings dates back to the Paleolithic era, though the district fell into neglect up until the 1970s. Substantial restorations in recent decades have transformed the town into a vibrant hub of great cultural significance, now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the late afternoon, meet your guide and fellow travellers for a short stroll through the maze of narrow alleys, cave dwellings, and rock-hewn churches that form Matera’s enchanting old town. As the sun sets, savour a drink with a view as the Sassi come aglow, then indulge in a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you'll be introduced to the fresh, flavourful cuisine of the region. Buon appetito!
Day 2
Cycle to San Giuliano and visit a focaccia bakery
E-bike
This morning, leave the bustle of Matera behind and embark on an e-bike adventure through rolling hills. You’ll ride along the peaceful, deserted country lanes which connect Matera to San Giuliano Lake, a tranquil natural oasis and a haven for migratory birds. Along the route, you’ll stop to explore the fascinating Crypt of the Original Sin, a cave on the Murgia plateau often referred to as the 'Sistine Chapel of rock art' due to its stunning frescoes. Lunch will be a delicious affair at a local agriturismo, where you'll savour authentic regional flavours before cycling back to Matera. Later in the day, join your guide to visit a local baker, who will reveal the traditional techniques behind making Matera’s famous bread – culminating in a mouthwatering taste of freshly baked focaccia. Dinner is not included this evening, but your guide will recommend some of the best restaurants in town so you can choose an unforgettable meal.
Day 3
Hike the Murgia Materana and head to Ostuni
Hiking
Driving
Lace up your boots for a hike through Matera's Natural Park of the Rock Churches, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. Marvel at the dramatic ravine, explore ancient caves and historic churches, and take in the spectacular views of Matera from its scenic trails, before the hike culminates in a crossing of the canyon via a suspension bridge. Afterwards, grab some lunch in town before heading into Puglia, the 'heel' of Italy, driving towards the coastal town of Polignano a Mare which is perched strikingly on cliffs above the Adriatic. Spend a couple of hours here, perhaps exploring its labyrinthine old town, visiting panoramic terraces, savouring an icy gelato or taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters at Polignano's beach. By late afternoon, you’ll reach countryside around Ostuni. For the next three nights you'll be staying at a traditional masseria – a beautifully restored agricultural estate typical of Puglia. Surrounded by ancient olive trees, vineyards, and lush vegetable gardens, it's a tranquil spot to kick back in. Cap off the day by sampling some of Puglia's finest olive oil, produced on the masseria itself.
Day 4
E-bike to the iconic trulli of Alberobello
E-bike
Today, get back on e-bikes to pedal through the stunning countryside of the Itria Valley, renowned for its trulli houses – the unique, cone-shaped dwellings that are iconic in this region. You’ll cycle from the charming baroque heart of Martina Franca through the picturesque village of Locorotondo, following a scenic cycling path that winds through the countryside alongside an old aqueduct. Continue on to Alberobello, where you'll find over a thousand of these distinctive trulli. Take a brief stop in the quieter Rione Aia Piccola neighbourhood, where you should be able capture some photos without the big crowds. From there, pedal along scenic country lanes to a traditional rural farm, where you'll stop for lunch. A local cheese artisan will showcase the craft of making fresh cheese, before you continue your ride back to Martina Franca. Back at the masseria, unwind with some well-deserved time by the pool before getting stuck in to an orecchiette-making demonstration, where you'll learn the secrets behind this beloved Apulian pasta, followed by a delicious home-cooked dinner.
Day 5
Hike ancient olive groves and taste wines in Ostuni
Hiking
Savour your final day on a hike, starting out near your masseria, which offers sweeping views over vast olive groves – home to some of the oldest and most majestic olive trees in the world. The trail will lead you through the serene countryside, eventually arriving at the charming hilltop town of Cisternino, known for its beautifully preserved old town and whitewashed buildings. You'll have time to explore the village and choose a place for lunch. If you don't fancy sitting in a restaurant, this place is famous for its butchers, who will grill your chosen goodies on the barbecue for you – a truly delicious local experience (vegetarian options are available too). Back at the masseria, you'll have some time to freshen up before a late afternoon transfer to Ostuni, an enchanting white citadel perched on a hilltop. To celebrate the end of this incredible foodie adventure, gather for a wine-tasting session, sampling some of the finest Apulian wines and raising a toast to your adventure. Dinner is not included this evening, but your guide will take you to a renowned restaurant where you can select your favourite dishes from an à la carte menu.
Day. 6
Arrivederci Italia!
After breakfast, you'll be transferred back to Bari Airport in time for your flight home. If you don't fancy leaving just yet, you could choose to extend your trip with a couple of days in lively Bari, beautiful Lecce or somewhere else along the wonderful coast of Puglia.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Matera Hotel
Arrive by 17:00 on Day 1
Ends
Bari International Airport
10:30 on Day 6
Transfers
On Day 1 your host will meet at your start hotel in Matera city centre, with a welcome briefing usually organised around 17:30 (the exact time will be confirmed by your host prior to departure). You can reach Matera easily by public transport, as it's served by frequent direct bus services from Bari Airport. The journey takes about 1hr 15min and the ticket costs approximately €4 (one way). It is possible to buy tickets on the bus, but it is better to buy them online in order to guarantee your seat. The hotel in Matera is a 20-minute walk (or a short taxi drive away!) from the bus stop. If you prefer to travel to your hotel by private transfer, you can arrange this directly with a trusted local supplier called Gamma Transfer for approximately €75 one way.
On Day 6, your host will drop you back at the airport in Bari at around 10:30 in the morning. We recommend booking a flight departing no earlier than 12:15. If your flight departs later in the day, you may choose to leave your luggage in storage at Bari Airport and spend some time in the city – or perhaps extend your trip and add some extra days in this wonderful region of Italy.
Travel options
There are regular direct flights to Bari Airport from airports across the UK and Europe. Alternatively, you may also consider indirect flights via Milan or Rome.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day. 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
The cuisine of Puglia and Basilicata is known for its simplicity and freshness which reflects the agricultural richness of the region. With an emphasis on locally produced ingredients, this area of southern Italy is perfect for foodies – and a true paradise for vegetarians and vegans, with plenty of typical Mediterranean vegetable dishes made with aubergines, courgettes, bell peppers, artichokes, tomatoes and legumes. Puglia is one of Italy’s largest producers of olive oil thanks to the olive trees which grow abundantly here, so this also features prominently in local dishes. The region is also known for its high-quality wheat, with pasta and bread as a staple. Cheese lovers won't be disappointed by the great variety of fresh local cheeses such as burrata, mozzarella, and caciocavallo. There are plenty of meals and produce tastings included in the trip price, but we've also factored in some lunches and dinners that are not included, allowing you the opportunity to pick from à la carte menus at restaurants of your choice. Some of the most popular regional specialities are orecchiette (Puglia's most famous pasta named for its ear-like shape), served with rapini (broccoli rabe) and anchovies or a simple tomato sauce; ciceri e tria, a traditional dish made with chickpeas and crispy fried pasta; and focaccia (which originates from Bari) topped with tomatoes, olives, or rosemary. Puglia is also known for its robust wines: some notable varieties include Primitivo, Negroamaro and Falanghina.
Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for – please just request this on your passenger info form.
What is the accommodation like?
Matera
In Matera you'll spend two nights at the comfortable Fra i Sassi Residence, a restored 17th-century building inside the town's UNESCO-listed Sassi complex. You'll stay in twin-share air-conditioned rooms with stone walls and views of the historic centre. The ensuite rooms are traditional cave dwellings, making this a one-of-a-kind overnight experience. The hotel has skillfully preserved the authentic charm and essence of the Sassi while still providing guests with all the expected comforts. You are also welcome to enjoy the sweeping views of the city from its panoramic terraces and balconies, connecting you deeply with the history of the city.
The Ostuni countryside
You'll spend the three nights of the trip in the heart of the Itria Valley, tucked away in the quiet Ostuni countryside at a traditional masseria. A masseria is typical Puglian farmhouse, usually surrounded by olive groves, renovated to offer country-style rooms in an authentic rural setting. This type of fortified farm was mainly built by wealthy landowners centuries ago, and while their primary purpose is still farmland – many of them still have orchards, groves and oil mills – today, they have mostly been converted to rural accommodation. On this trip, you'll either stay at Masseria Morrone or Masseria Valente, both of which offer similar settings, characterful accommodation and lovely gardens with a pool.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, a private room can be booked for an extra charge – see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
This trip has been rated as Easy
This trip is designed for anyone with a sense of adventure and an interest for combining activities in the outdoors with some cultural exploration and authentic local food experiences along the way. You'll be active for 3-5 hours each day, so expect to work up your appetite!
Hiking in Matera will follow a stunning canyon where the trail can be uneven or rocky at times, so some good balance and trekking shoes with decent grip are required. You'll also be crossing a suspension bridge offering some stunning vistas of the Murgia plateau, so a head for heights is recommended to enjoy the experience. The hike in Ostuni will follow a mix of paved tracks to country trails and dirt roads, and although you'll be hiking up and down some gentle hills, the going is leisurely with plenty of stops to enjoy the views. Overall, you should be comfortable hiking for up to 3-4 hours, sometimes in hot weather. Please expect quite a lot of steps, sometimes uneven, when exploring the historic centres of Matera and Ostuni.
The trip includes two scenic rides on e-bikes – bicycles with battery-powered assistance that comes via pedalling. The routes will include some uphill sections and are mostly along easy gravel paths as well as quiet road sections in the countryside around Matera and Ostuni. You must feel comfortable on two wheels – you'll be cycling for approximately 3 hours in total, excluding breaks. Your e-bike will give you an extra push so you should find the hills and overall distance easier than expected!
Please consider factoring in some light to moderate physical activity in the weeks leading up to the trip to ensure you're ready to enjoy the experience.
What if i need to skip an activity?
If you prefer to opt-out from any of the activities, it's absolutely fine – just let your guide know. You can enjoy some extra leisure time in the towns or back at the accommodation.
What will I need to carry?
You will have access to your larger bag with all your belongings each day, which will stay at the hotel. You'll also need a small 25-30L rucksack to carry personal items during each day of activities.
Please note that in Matera you'll need to carry your luggage through some narrow cobbled streets and up some steps to reach the hotel, therefore packing light to make it easier and more comfortable is recommended. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient, although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter.
Puglia (also known as Apulia) and Basilicata are located in the south of Italy and as such are some of the driest, sunniest regions of Italy. The best time for hiking, cycling and exploring is usually spring (from March to June) and autumn (from September to early November), when temperatures are milder and usually ranging from around 15°C to the high 20°Cs. Some rain and chilly evenings are possible at any time of year, so the best you can do is to come prepared for varied weather conditions and bring some layers and rainproof gear.
We’re still waiting to collect any reviews from other travellers on this trip. However, all our hosts go through an extensive vetting process to ensure that your adventure is awesome.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included?
- All your e-biking equipment, including a helmet
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Soft overnight duffel bag/rucksack or luggage with sturdy wheels, which you can easily lift up and down stairs in Matera
- Daypack (20-30 litres)
- Waterproof liner for rucksack
CLOTHES
- Light jacket (for March, April and November departures)
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Breathable wicking layers
- Fleece jacket or similar
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
- T-shirts
- Underwear and socks
- Swimwear
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Sleepwear
- Hiking boots or shoes (worn-in) with sturdy soles (no trainers)
- Sandals
OTHER
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Ear plugs
- Insect repellent
- Suncream
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Quick-dry towel
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Reusable water bottle x1 litre (or x2)
Additional Night in Matera Single Room
Payable Before Departure
Additional Night in Matera Single Room
… Per Night
Additional Night in Matera Twin/Double Room
Payable Before Departure
Additional Night in Matera Twin/Double Room
… Per Night
Optional Private Room Upgrade
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade
…
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 174kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
This trip is designed to showcase some of the best spots in Puglia and Basilicata, offering a perfect balance of sightseeing, culinary experiences and active adventure. While the region has gained popularity in recent years, it remains less crowded than destinations like the Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast – especially if you visit during the low season (March, October, or November). Although it's hard to guarantee a completely crowd-free experience in towns like Matera, Polignano, and Alberobello, these locations are still must-sees of the region and fully merit their inclusion in the itinerary.
To make the most of your journey, we've crafted an itinerary that minimizes time spent in busier areas, allowing you to cycle along peaceful country roads, away from the urban bustle. You'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the serene countryside with three overnight stays in an authentic masseria. In addition, you'll discover hidden gems like Locorotondo, Martina Franca, and the stunning natural oasis of San Giuliano Lake.
If bad weather affects any of the activities, your local guide may decide to swap around the order of the program. If cycling or hiking is not possible due to safety reasons, alternative activities will be offered.
A certified, English-speaking local guide will be with the group throughout the trip and will join all activities. In addition, for groups of nine or more people, you'll have an additional cycling guide to support you during the e-bike rides on Day 2 and Day 4.
Marta Marinelli, raised in Italy’s serene Prosecco Hills, dreamt of global adventures, inspired by her father's travel stories. Her passion evolved into a career, backed by a decade of studies including degrees in international tourism and destination management. She’s worked in the adventure travel sector since 2012, living in Italy, the UK, and now sunny Portugal.
Over twenty years, Marta has explored over 55 countries, visiting remote areas like Ghana, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Haiti and Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. As a Senior Adventure Expansion Manager at Much Better Adventures, she focuses on creating life-changing experiences, ranging from multi-activity adventures, challenging treks to ultimate adventures in iconic places. She loves the challenge of finding the best local adventure hosts around the world, collaborating on adventures that offer genuine immersion, pushing beyond the beaten path and working on exclusive itineraries that challenge your comfort zone.
What makes her tick? Enabling people to live adventure-rich lives while positively impacting and empowering local communities around the world, generating sustainable opportunities for both the host, guides, community, and the environment.
The tap water is safe to drink. Please bring along your own reusable water bottle to fill up at the hotels or public fountains to avoid buying single use plastic bottles.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
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DEPARTURE DATES
Sunday 16th March 2025
to Friday 21st March 2025
New Trip Offer - Next 2 spots available at 10% off
Sunday 30th March 2025
to Friday 4th April 2025
New Trip Offer - Next 2 spots available at 10% off
