Self-Guided
Matera to Puglia Self-Guided Biking
Cycle along the shimmering Adriatic
6 Days, 5 Nights
Activity Level:
B&R Activity Levels
Best Time To Go
March – June, September – November
Priced per person from
$5,395 USD
Prices May Vary For Groups Larger Than Two
Carbon Neutral Trip
Ride through southern Italy where ancient history meets Adriatic eye candy. Spin past olive groves, stone Trulli, and sun-bleached villages that look plucked from a dream (or a very trippy postcard). Explore fortified farms, feast like a local, and cruise serene coastal roads. Matera to Puglia delivers the rarest form of la dolce vita—one that's blissfully free of crowds.
Cycle along the shimmering Adriatic and through the historic Alberobello, with more than 1,000 UNESCO-listed Trulli.
Uncover the secrets of Italian cuisine during an intimate cooking class and lunch, hosted by our local friends who share their passion for authentic regional flavours.
Discover how Puglia's art, history, and culture have been shaped by a rich blend of civilizations—from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Byzantines and Normans.
Preview the itinerary
No two trips are ever the same, but this will give you a taste of what your journey will be like.
Day 1
Welcome to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient city carved into a cave. Unwind in your hotel with sprawling views in the heart of the Sassi, then wander through Matera’s cobblestoned paths to one of the many dining options.
Day 2
Hop on your bikes for a loop ride into the countryside of Basilicata, with sweeping views of wheat fields, vineyards and hillsides dotted with small farmhouses. Arrive in Laterza, a town known for its bread and ceramics. This evening, dinner at one of the best restaurants in the area awaits.
Activity:
62 km (39 mi.) loop ride into the countryside of Basilicata
Day 3
Head to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and independently explore its distinct homes known as trulli. Stop for a cooking class and lunch with our friends, then continue along soft rolling pastures before hitting the coast and riding back to your hotel.
Activity:
45 km (28 mi.) ride from the hilltop town of Alberobello to Ostuni
Day 4
Pedal along the border of ancient lands of the Messapi and Peuceti—where trulli and masserie castles begin to dot the landscape. Back in Ostuni, enjoy some downtime before venturing into town for dinner, and if you’re up for it, a mixology class.
Activity:
46 km (29 mi.) loop ride on gently rolling terrain from your hotel through the countryside and to the coast again
Day 5
Cycle the ancient via Traiana, built in 109 AC, biking among thousand-year-old olive trees. Reach the archaeological site of Egnazia and explore the ruins before savouring an ocean-front lunch. Tonight, toast to an incredible adventure over one final dinner.
Activity:
50 km (31 mi.) relatively flat ride finishing in Monopoli
Day 6
Based on your outbound flight time and onward travels we have organized a drive to Brindisi airport. Arrivederci!
* Itineraries are subject to change. Please confirm exact Trip Start and Trip End locations upon booking.
Featured stays
Sant'Angelo Luxury Resort
Location: Matera, Italy
Paragon 700
Location: Ostuni, Italy
Don Ferrante
Location: Monopoli, Italy
What's included
Accommodation & dining
All accommodation as indicated on the itinerary.
All breakfasts, lunches and dinners as indicated on the itinerary.
Restaurant suggestions along the way.
Active essentials
Choice of bike as appropriate for terrain (see below), equipped with handlebar bag and helmet.
A biodegradable B&R water bottle.
Use of a smartphone with downloaded GPS routes provided via RideWithGPS.
Guided services
Local host support every step of the way.
All special events as indicated on the itinerary.
Transportation & logistics
All baggage transportation.
Pick up and drop off at Bari Airport.
Transportation as indicated on the itinerary.
What's Not Included: International flights, travel protection, gratuity for your guides.
This trip is carbon neutral. Learn more about our Sustainability commitment.
Experience Designer
Good to know
Get involved
B&R’s Slow Fund currently supports Olivami, an organization helping to restore Puglia’s olive tree population.
Accommodation
The Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort features both traditional rooms and cave rooms. The cave rooms, carved into the ancient stone of Matera, are windowless and feature glass doors separating the bathroom area.
Pre and Post trip
If you have extra time, considering exploring Salento, the southern part of Puglia.
Why choose a Self-Guided trip?
Total Freedom, Tailored to You
With a self-guided trip, you are the master of your own adventure. Every route, hotel, and dining experience is meticulously planned by our expert team, leaving you free to explore at your own pace. Follow our guidance or take that unmarked path that catches your eye—it's your call.
Set Your Own Pace
Whether you're an early bird who loves watching the sunrise or a traveller who prefers leisurely mornings, self-guided trips let you design each day to your rhythm. No strict schedules or group timetables—just the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, as you like it.
Support Behind the Scenes
Though you're on your own, you're never truly alone. Our local experts are just a call away, ready to offer support if needed. From roadside assistance to restaurant recommendations, we're there to ensure your journey is seamless and stress-free.
A Private Escape
Craving a solo adventure or a getaway with your closest companions? A self-guided trip offers the privacy to create lasting memories with your travel partner(s), free from distractions. The world is yours to explore, with no group to keep up with or slow you down.
