Country Hikes and Coastal Walks in Italy’s Deep South

Apulia

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A SIGNIFICANT DISCOUNT ON THIS TRIP IS AVAILABLE, DUE TO THE REBOUND IN THE DOLLAR. SEE DETAILS BELOW TOUR COSTS.

With azure-blue Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, whitewashed towns reminiscent of Greece, centuries-old olive orchards in shades of green and gray, and a layercake of ancient cultures, Apulia is a delightful surprise in the “heel of the Italian boot.” In this deeply traditional realm, we discover the distinctive character of the Italian south on hikes among isolated villages and masserias (fortified farmhouses) and along one of Italy’s most spectacular coastlines. Along the way, we join the local tradition of the passeggiata (evening strolls), enjoy the hospitality of the Apulian people, and savor some of Italy’s best food, la cucina pugliese, with locally grown ingredients born of the sun-drenched countryside and the deep blue sea.

Below is an Itinerary-in-Brief. To view a complete Detailed Itinerary, Download Full Itinerary or Email our Area Specialist

Itinerary-in-Brief

Days 1-2
Trani / Matera

From the seaside town of Trani, we visit the unforgettable Castel del Monte, the octagonal hunting lodge of Frederick II of Swabia, then head to unique Matera, a trogolodyte town that sprawls down the edge of a ravine in a series of extraordinary sassi, or cave dwellings. Matera’s old quarter is the best surviving example of a rock-cut settlement in the Mediterranean. In Matera’s Chiese Rupestri Archeological Park, a World Heritage Site, we explore among the 10th century caves and churches with Byzantine frescoes, then head to a perfect white beach for a walk along the Ionian Sea. The next day, we enjoy a full day’s hike in the canyon below town. Our hotel in Matera’s charming old quarter is a restored ancient dwelling with unique rock-hewn cavern rooms.

Days 3-5
Taranto / Alberobello / Cooking Class

We hike in the deep-walled canyon of Gravina di Laterza, now a nature reserve, then enjoy a seafood lunch in the lively harbor town of Taranto. Heading inland, we hike along quiet rural roads among many trulli settlements interspersed in a lush landscape of olive groves, vineyards, and oak woodlands. Trulli are tiny cylindrical dwellings of stone with conical roofs, often several centuries old. Another walk brings us to Martina Franca, a lovely town with a Moorish flavor and a lively evening passeggiata in the narrow streets. One afternoon, we visit a family in their 18th century masseria for some local hospitality and a cooking class, a feast of Apulian specialities, including savory cheeses made at the farm. Overnights are at the World Heritage Site of Alberobello, a fairytale hilltown with a skyline of charming whitewashed houses.

Days 6-10
Otranto / Lecce

Medieval Otranto is an atmospheric port near the tip of the Apulian heel where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet. Here on one of Italy’s most breathtaking coastlines, our hikes bring us to the heel of the boot on the southernmost cape, past ancient Saracen watchtowers reigning over blue coves, and along the aquamarine sea at Porto Badisco, a charming hamlet on a lovely bay where Homer’s Aeneas is said to have landed. After a seaside lunch of freshly grilled fish, we enjoy our last night in elegant Lecce, Apulia’s cultural capital. With its artisans and exuberant Baroque architecture of pink sandstone, it is one of southern Italy’s most charming cities. Depart Day 10 from Brindisi.

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Tour Costs $4195 (13-15 members) $4395 (10-12 members) $4595 (6-9 members) Single supplement: $395 Prices are for 2009 dates The US Dollar rebounded in value against the Euro, and Wilderness Travel would like to pass the savings along to you! For those willing to make their first deposit ($500 per person) non-refundable, we will purchase the necessary Euros for your trip when you sign up. This will allow us to lock in the current exchange rate, and guarantee your savings. To find out the current discount available at today’s rate call us at 1-800-368-2794 or email us. **Airfare is not included in Tour Cost unless indicated

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