Current as of: May 9, 2024 - 02:20
Paths of Puglia & Matera - Premium Adventure Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Premium Adventures, Private Group Adventures
- Destination: Italy
- Programmes: Premium Adventures, Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Leisurely / Moderate
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: TIQP
- Carbon Footprint: 16kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Explore the picturesque landscapes of Puglia and ancient history of Matera in style
On the southeast coast of Italy – the heel of the boot – lies the agricultural paradise of Puglia. This low-lying region was once a gateway for Western Europe to the Near East, and there’s a surprising mix of culture and traditions to discover. Visit the Unesco-listed town of Alberobello, home to fairytale trulli houses with their whitewashed façades and conical roofs, and walk in the shade of ancient olive trees and vineyards. Visit the baroque city of Lecce and discover why it has been nicknamed the Florence of the South. Hike above the topaz waters of the Adriatic coast and, finally, step back in time in the cave city of Matera.
At a Glance
- Two nights in quirky trulli houses; two nights in a small hotel; three nights in a beautiful cave hotel
- Six days of gentle guided walking
- Group normally 4 to 14, plus local leader. Minimum age: 16
- Low altitude throughout
- Travel by private minivan and train
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Take gentle countryside and coastal walks
- Stay in a trulli house in Alberobello
- Visit the baroque masterpiece of Lecce
- Enjoy a sunset guided tour of Matera and enjoy a classic Italian aperitivo by candlelight
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
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.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Ostuni
- End City: Matera
Land Only Itinerary
Fly to Bari; transfer to Ostuni
For those arriving on the group flight, our tour leader will greet us at Bari airport and accompany us on a 1-hour transfer to the white city of Ostuni, where whitewashed houses create a dazzling effect. A welcome dinner is included this evening so we can get to know each other.
Premium accommodation: Hotel Ostuni Palace
Start Ostuni
Our Premium Adventure begins in the white city of Ostuni, where whitewashed houses create a dazzling effect. A welcome dinner is included this evening so we can get to know each other.
Premium accommodation: Hotel Ostuni Palace
Morning visit to Agnano Archaeological Park; Beachside lunch & free time to explore Ostuni
We’ll start todays walk directly from the hotel and walk through the olive groves that surround Ostuni and to the archaeological park of Santa Maria di Agnano, where we’ll stop for a visit. We’ll then continue our walk to Dune Costiere natural park and have our lunch in a beachside restaurant and enjoy some time to relax. Finally, we take a private transfer back to our accommodation in Ostuni. You’ll have some free time to explore the city before heading to dinner at a traditional restaurant.
Premium accommodation: Hotel Ostuni Palace
Visit to the baroque city of Lecce
In the morning, we take the train to Lecce, justifiably known as the Florence of the South. A local guide will accompany us through the pretty streets and share information about the cultural importance and history of the area, particularly the Basilica di Santa Croce, duomo (cathedral) and Piazza del Duomo. There will be free time for shopping or visiting other renowned sites such as the Roman amphitheatre, the statue of Santo Oronzo or a papier mâché workshop. Later, we take the train to Monopoli and then take a private transfer to our next stop, Alberobello.
Premium accommodation: Abate Masseria or Il Palmento
Walk among the olive trees and vineyards of the Itria Valley; visit the hilltop town of Locorotondo
A short private transfer will take us to the starting point for our first walk of the week, crossing the peaceful Itria Valley. Passing trulli, ancient olive trees and myriad vineyards, we walk along narrow countryside tracks on our way to the hilltop town of Locorotondo, known for having a relaxed atmosphere, pretty alleys and excellent white wine. We’ll stop for a picnic along the way and take a short train back to Alberobello. Later in the afternoon, we visit a local winery for a wine and produce tasting.
Premium accommodation: Abate Masseria or Il Palmento
Morning walk at San Giuliano Lake and transfer to the Unesco town of Matera
This morning, we start our journey to Matera, first stopping at San Giuliano Lake. We walk around the lake towards the original Sin Crypt, a cave with frescos dating back to the 11th century. The crypt is now part of a masseria farm, where we have a light lunch before heading on our way to Matera. We take a private transfer to Matera, one of the most memorable destinations in Italy, made famous by the James Bond film, No Time to Die (2021). Our cave hotel is in the heart of the Sassi District, just a few steps from the most famous attractions in town. After check in, there is free time before we enjoy a first glimpse of the enchanting alleys and unique architecture on a guided sunset tour of the city. We’ll end with a classic Italian aperitivo in a beautiful setting and admire the twinkling lights of Matera from a lofty position.
Premium accommodation: Casa Diva or Antico Convicino
Hike to the Murgia plateau and park of rock churches
Today is completely dedicated to Matera where we start our walk around the Sassi district and stop for a light lunch along the way. we enjoy a short hike to the Murgia plateau, a vast protected area home to more than 150 rupestrian churches dating from the eighth century. Once inhabited by hermits, the plateau is adorned with wonderful Byzantine frescoes. We then hike to the top of the ravine, following a pathway that ends with a spectacular viewpoint of the Sassi District. In the afternoon, we take part in a cooking class and then enjoy dinner together.
Premium accommodation: Casa Diva or Antico Convicino
Walk the outskirts of Matera to explore prehistoric caves and rock villages
On our final hike of the week, we take the bus to Montescaglioso village and will have a short stroll to the Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo (known as the City of Monasteries) where we stop for a visit with a local guide. We continue our day with a walk through Murgia park and here we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch before catching the bus back to Matera. On our return to Matera, we have free time before heading to a local winery for a wine tasting before a farewell dinner.
Premium accommodation: Casa Diva or Antico Convicino
End Matera
The trip ends in Matera this morning after breakfast. If you’d like a bit more time to explore this magnificent Basilicatan city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Transfer to Bari; fly to London
For those on the group flights, there is a private transfer back to Bari airport (approximately one hour).
Accommodation
Boutique hotel, cave hotel, and trulli houses
The accommodation on this trip has been handpicked to showcase the very best of the three towns in which we stay.
Ostuni: Hotel Ostuni Palace (nights 1-2)
In the heart of the White City, the four-star Ostuni Palace occupies an ideal position for our adventures. The 34 rooms are traditional and elegant, plus there’s a spa and wellness centre should you wish to indulge a little. Elsewhere, the restaurant serves a contemporary take on traditional Puglian fare and breakfasts are a hearty buffet selection that includes fresh fruits, just-baked croissants and homemade cakes.
Alberobello: Il Palmento or Abate Masseria (nights 3-4)
In Alberobello, we stay in either Il Palmento (above) or Abate Masseria, depending on availability. Both have masterfully incorporated traditional trulli into their properties, while also offering modern comforts, including Puglian restaurants and swimming pools.
Matera: Casa Diva or Antico Convicino (nights 5-7)
In Matera, you stay in either Casa Diva (above) or Antico Convicino. Casa Diva occupies a historic manor house in the UNESCO-listed Sassi district, each of the eight rooms individually designed. Make sure to visit the terrace for stretching views over this unique, beautiful town. A short walk away is Antico Convicino, where solo travellers will stay due to rooming availability within the Sassi district. It’s equally historic, occupying a 16th-century complex with rooms built into the caves.
Worth knowing
- The accommodation shown has been booked and agreed in advance; however, we may need to make changes to a property of similar or higher standard after you have booked. While we will endeavour to inform you of any changes in advance, this could, on rare occasions, be at late notice.
Food & Drink
All breakfasts, five lunches, five dinners and two wine and local produce tastings are included.
In Puglia, you will find genuine regional cooking with strong links to land and sea. To give you just a small list of the on offer in Puglia: bread from the Murge, durum wheat pasta, olives, the pasta delicacy orecchiette served with a sauce of turnip-tops or fresh tomato and sheep’s ricotta-cheese, cavatelli with pulses, aubergine (eggplant) and parmesan bake, grilled fish and seafood, burrata (soft mozzarella and cream cheese), plus excellent wines. This region is a food lover’s paradise, and the abundance of delicious vegetables also makes it a perfect destination for vegetarians. On this trip, there will be many opportunities to taste the best local specialities, particularly during the produce and wine tasting and the traditional dinner included in the itinerary.
Transport
A private minibus will be used for the airport transfers and some transfers during the trip. We use a train service to get to and from Lecce and local bus services for some transfers.
Weather & Seasonality
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.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: Before 6pm at the start hotel to catch the welcome dinner
Airport: Bari Airport (BRI)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 60 to 70 minutes’ 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.
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 for approximately €116-€140 for the vehicle. On arrival at the hotel, please make the reception staff aware that you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with your leader and group. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
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.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Ostuni
Location end: Matera
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Small rucksack (for water bottle, camera etc)
- Lightweight waterproof jacket and wind stopper
- Trail shoes or walking boots with sturdy soles
- Long walking trousers as some paths may be overgrown
- A warm jumper or fleece (for evenings and winter departures)
- A sun hat and other sun protection equipment
- Water bottle: While mineral water is available at the hotel and shops, it’s safe to drink the local tap water, so remember to bring refillable water bottles and keep hydrated during the day
Optional Equipment
- Walking poles
- A small umbrella in case of unexpected showers
- Swimming costume (for summer departures)
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Italy
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Italy. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/italy
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/italy
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Italy.html
Please note: it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times in Italy.
Vaccinations and Health
Italy
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Ticks are known to be present in this region and can carry lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis and other diseases. Please take care to protect yourself. You can read more about ticks here.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Local Time
Italy's time zone: Europe/Rome (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
Italy's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard), F (two round pins), and L (three round pins in a row) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Italy's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
You can withdraw euros from a cash machine (ATM) in every town, but we do recommend you obtain some of your spending money in euros before joining the tour. Credit cards are also accepted in most places you visit but cash is easier.
Extra Expenses & 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.
Tipping
On our Paths of Puglia and Matera – Premium Adventure, tipping for our local team is not included. The custom in Italy is for guides to receive tips in cash from the groups they lead (it is not possible to pay in advance).
The amount you may wish to tip is entirely discretionary, but as a starting point we suggest:
- €10 per person for the support driver
- €5 per guide per person (€20 in total) for local specialist guides in Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce and Matera
- €20-€25 per person for the tour leader.
Of course, if you wish to give additional tips for an extra-special service you may do so.
For those who wish to participate in a tipping kitty for the support driver and local specialist guides, the tour leader will collect €30 per person at the welcome briefing and distribute it to staff during the trip. Tips for the tour leader are usually collected by one member of the group and presented to the tour leader in an envelope at the end of the trip.
People, Places & Planet
We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
- Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
- This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible. We use family-run hotels: Dodici Lune Hotel in Matera, Masseria Valente in Ostuni, Trulli or Trulli e Puglia in Alberobello.
- We visit a winery in Alberobello that supports the local economy.
- At Masseria Valente, we have lunch with a family at their farmhouse which provides for cross-cultural interaction.
- Read more about our other initiatives here.
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
- By travelling in a small group we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
- We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for reusable bottles.
- The payment of entrance fees to natural reserves and archaeological sites generates income which is used for upkeep and development of these important sites.
- We rewild 1,075sqft (100sqm) per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
- Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
- Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
- We use public transport where possible during this trip to reduce carbon emissions.
- Walking trips like this have very little detrimental impact on the environment and the locals, as it is a quiet, low impact activity requiring comparatively few resources to support.
- Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
- Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
- Plastic waste reduction: Please bring a reusable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.
Important Information
Water safety
This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.
In line with our ‘book and travel with confidence’ promise which allows you to cancel free of charge up to 42 days prior to departure, or transfer to another trip free of charge up to 21 days prior to your trip starting in country, please be aware that this excludes ‘irrecoverable costs’. Details can be found here: https://www.exodus.co.uk/about-exodus/exodus-booking-conditions
If you need to cancel your trip because you or a member of your party is diagnosed with COVID-19 or has received a request from the Government to self-isolate, you will receive a full refund less irrecoverable costs.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.