Self guided hiking holiday in Puglia: Hike from Lecce to Matera

Discover the history of Italy on this self guided hiking holiday in Puglia. Hike from Lecce to Matera on this leisurely paced (7-13km a day) walking trip in Italy

Italy is a land forged in history by a mixture of civilisations and cultures. This enriching self guided hiking holiday in Puglia combines archaeological and architectural treasures, with waling through valleys and along coastal paths surrounded by landscapes of red earth, olive groves and vineyards.

See (and sleep in!) the unique dry stone cottages known as Trulli in intriguing Alberobello as you hike from Lecce to Matera. Have time to discover the cave houses known as Sassi in Matera on a guided tour. Explore the enchanting maze of narrow streets in the ‘white city’ Ostuni, the seaside village of Otranto facing the Adriatic and visit the elegant Baroque city of Lecce.

The level of walking is Grade 2: Introductory – Moderate

Price Includes

• 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners
• 5 nights in charming B&Bs or 3 star hotels and 2 nights in a typical Trullo (subject to availability) on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (hotel taxes extra, payable locally - allow €10-15)
• Private transfers as noted (Public transportation not included)
• Wine and product tasting at Alberobello
• Sassi Matera guided visit & typical products tasting
• Emergency hotline
• Mobile App with GPX tracks for navigating
• Information pack including route notes and maps per room booked
• Luggage transfer

Price Excludes

1. Travel to Lecce and from Matera
2. Beverages, lunches and 5 dinners
3. Public transportation, allow €30
4. Travel insurance
5. Hotel taxes (allow €10-15)

What to expect

Plan to hike from Lecce to Matera

Day 1: Arrival in Lecce for sightseeing at your leisure in Salento's baroque style regional capital. Overnight in Lecce.

Day 2: Visit Otranto and hike along the Adriatic coastline. Distance 11km/6.8mi, ascent +100m/328ft, descent -100m/328ft. Overnight in Lecce.

Day 3: Private transfer & public train to the charming whitewashed hilltop village of Ostuni where you have time to explore the maze of Greek-style narrow streets and fine Mediterranean architecture. Dinner in a typical restaurant. Overnight in Ostuni.

Day 4: Explore the countryside of Ostuni on a self guided walk through millenary olive groves on red clay-like soil with wonderful views of the Adriatic. Distance 9km/5.6mi, ascent +100m/328ft, descent -100m/328ft. 4PM transfer to Alberobello, renowned for its Trulli, wine and typical product tasting. Overnight in Alberobello in a trullo (subject to availability).

Day 5: Discover the Itria Valley walking along an old aqueduct to Locorotondo. Pass between olive trees, vineyards and trulli through this enchanting landscape. Distance 13km/8mi, ascent +475m/1560ft, descent -410m/1345ft. Overnight in Alberobello.

Day 6: Transfer to World Heritage listed Matera, known for its fascinating 'Sassi': ancient cave dwellings that have been excavated in the rocks facing a deep canyon. After you check in to your accommodation, enjoy a guided visit of the 'Sassi' area (approx. 2 hours). Overnight in Matera.

Day 7: Enjoy a wonderful hike to discover the Murgia plateau facing Matera, with its rock churches painted with Byzantine frescoes. Distance 7km/4.3mi, ascent +150m/492ft, descent -150m/492ft. There is the chance to watch the flight of different types of falcons. Dinner in a typical trattoria to experience the flavour of the region and overnight in Matera.

Day 8: This self guided hiking holiday in Puglia concludes after your breakfast in Matera. Transfer to bus station for your onward journey or request an optional private transfer to Bari, ask for our rates.

Self guided hiking holiday in Puglia: Hike from Lecce to Matera: From £930 to £977 for 8 days

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