walking in puglia A UTracks holiday is all about exploring Europe ‑ your way. It’s about U + the walking tracks and cycling trails you want to discover. Since we began in 2006, UTracks has quickly become known as the leaders in active European holidays. Our itineraries are creative ‑ and very affordable. Set your own pace on a flexible self guided trip or enjoy the benefits of an experienced local guide on a guided tour. Together with our sister company Sherpa Expeditions, we offer over 400 active tours across the continent and it’s many exotic islands. There’s an active holiday idea everyone including families, culinary enthusiasts, history buffs, experienced alpine walkers or those that just want to see Europe differently. The physical demands range from introductory to challenging ‑ with all offering unique opportunities to discover the ‘untrodden’ Europe, spanning postcard landscapes, centuries‑old cultures, rural lifestyles and tempting culinary delights. Compare the price and you will see that we offer exceptional value active programs that are virtually all‑inclusive, giving you more time to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders you’ve come to experience. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2‑star or 4‑star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
explore europe your way
TRIP COST
TRIP NAME: WALKING IN PUGLIA Joining Lecce low season:$1270 TRIP CODE: WIP
All prices are per person TRIP DURATION: 8 DAYS
Italy
Bari
Alberobello Ostuni Matera Lecce
OPTIONS & GRADE: INTRODUCTORY TO MODERATE ‑ 2 SUPPLEMENTS H - high season surcharge:$60
Saturday arrival
Otranto
ACTIVITY: SELF GUIDED WALKING ACCOMMODATION: 5 NIGHTS IN 3 STAR HOTELS
AND B&BS & 2 NIGHTS IN A TRULLO IN ALBEROBELLO
supplement - pp twinshare:$100
DAILY EXCEPT SATURDAYS FROM 1 MAR TO 24 JUL AND 1 SEP TO Single Supplement:$200 DATE DETAILS: 30 NOV Single Traveller Surcharge:$230 As the trip price is based on twinshare, a single supplement is payable if a single room is required ‑ or a single traveller supplement if you are travelling solo*. Please refer to the price options for costs or ask our office for details. Note regarding single rooms ‑ The single supplement guarantees the privacy of your own room, however, rooms can at times be small and in some places may not enjoy the same facilities as double/twin rooms. *The single traveller surcharge is only available on trips deemed suitable for solo travellers. It is usually more expensive than the single supplement due to the extra cost for luggage transfers and organisation.
IMPORTANT NOTES
highlights View the red earth of Salento and olive groves by the sea Discover Lecce and its historic centre, and the seaside town of Otranto Visit the UNESCO World Heritage trulli of Alberobello and the Sassi of Matera Stay in atmospheric hand picked hotels and guesthouses
the trip Puglia is a land forged in history by a mixture of civilisations and cultures. This enriching walking trip combines archeological and architectural treasures with hiking through valleys and along coastal paths surrounded by landscapes of red earth, olive groves and vineyards. See the unique dry stone cottages known as trulli in intriguing Alberobello and the cave houses known as Sassi in Matera. 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.
H - High Season DN1 - High season is 28 Jun to 29 Jul. A supplement applies for high season and further supplements may apply during special festivals, public holidays and Easter. Train transportation is not included - allow €30.
© 2011 World Expeditions Travel Group - Dana Garofani 11/1/2016 3:26:17 PM
Page 1
walking in puglia DN2 - We do not recommend this trip for solo travellers. If you decide to book this trip as a single person it is essential that you are a confident, experienced traveller and a strong walker with a keen sense of direction and risk averse nature. Note: - Saturday departures may be possible - supplement applies. Please note that if you choose to start this trip on a Sunday there is no train from Matera to Bari on Sundays. A limited bus service is available. Trulli accommodation is not guaranteed.
itinerary at a glance Day 1
Arrival in Lecce for sightseeing in Salento’s baroque style regional capital
Day 2
Visit Otranto and hike along the Adriatic coastline, overnight in Lecce (4hrs)
Day 3
Transfer to the charming whitewashed hilltop village of Ostuni, explore on foot (2hrs)
Day 4
Explore the countryside of Ostuni, transfer to Alberobello, renowned for its ‘trulli’ (3hrs)
Day 5
Discover Itria Valley and Locorotondo (4hrs)
Day 6
Transfer to Matera, guided visit of the ‘Sassi’ area and tasting of local products
Day 7
Hike to discover the Murgia plateau and its 8th century rock churches (3hrs)
Day 8
Trip concludes
detailed itinerary DAY 1 Arrival in Lecce for sightseeing in Salento’s baroque style regional capital Make your own way to Lecce. From the train station you can walk to your accommodation (800m) or take a taxi (allow EUR15). A charming B&B in an historic building, located in the historical centre of the city, will be your home for 2 days. This afternoon you are free to discover the main monuments of the capital of the Salento region, which are Baroque style. Dinner in a typical restaurant and overnight in Lecce. meals: D
DAY 2 Visit Otranto and hike along the Adriatic coastline, overnight in Lecce (4hrs) The focus today is Otranto, a little seaside village facing the Adriatic sea. Visit its Norman Cathedral to see the unique ‘Tree of Life’ mosaic floor. Hike along the coastline, discovering flowers and Mediterranean vegetation and the Saracen watchtowers. Train back to Lecce to your B&B. Distance 11km, ascent +100m, descent -100m Attention: No train connection between Lecce and Otranto on Sundays - a private transfer is required (supplement applies). meals: B
DAY 3 Transfer to the charming whitewashed hilltop village of Ostuni, explore on foot (2hrs) Private transfer to the station, then take a train to Ostuni. This striking hilltop village, a short distance from the seashore, is known as the “white city” due to its fortress of whitewashed buildings clustered together on the hillside. Private transfer from the station into town, with free time to discover this fairytale-like town with its enchanting maze of Greek-style narrow streets and fine Mediterranean architecture. Dinner in a typical restaurant and overnight in hotel in Ostuni. meals: B,D
DAY 4 Explore the countryside of Ostuni, transfer to Alberobello, renowned for its ‘trulli’ (3hrs) Hike to discover the unique countryside of Ostuni. Enjoy a nice walk through millenary olive groves on red clay-like soil with wonderful views of the Adriatic. At 4pm, private transfer to UNESCO World Heritage listed Alberobello, with its intriguing dry-stone dwellings known as trulli, in the beautifully exotic Itria valley. Your accommodation is in the historical centre. Wine and typical product tasting, overnight in Alberobello in a trullo (subject to availability) Distance 9km, ascent +100m, descent -100m meals: B
© 2011 World Expeditions Travel Group - Dana Garofani 11/1/2016 3:26:17 PM
Page 2
walking in puglia DAY 5 Discover Itria Valley and Locorotondo (4hrs) Today you discover the Itria Valley, walking along an old aqueduct to Locorotondo. Pass between olive trees, vineyards and trulli through this enchanting landscape. Return by train to Alberobello. Distance 15km, ascent +90m, descent -70m meals: B
DAY 6 Transfer to Matera, guided visit of the ‘Sassi’ area and tasting of local products After breakfast, transfer to World Heritage listed Matera. Its fascinating ‘Sassi’, ancient cave dwellings that have been inhabited since Paleolithic times, have been excavated in the rocks facing a deep canyon. Upon arrival, after you check into your accommodation, enjoy a guided visit of the ‘Sassi’ area and afterwards taste some typical products of the region. Overnight in Matera. meals: B
DAY 7 Hike to discover the Murgia plateau and its 8th century rock churches (3hrs) A wonderful hike to discover the Murgia plateau facing Matera, admiring rock churches painted with Byzantine frescoes. The landscape here is of pastures and stone farmhouses, and there is the chance to watch the flight of different types of falcons. Dinner in a typical restaurant and overnight in Matera. Distance 7km, ascent +150m, descent -150m meals: B,D
DAY 8 Trip concludes The trip concludes after breakfast with your transfer to the bus or train station. meals: B
inclusions
7 breakfasts, 3 dinners 5 nights in 3‑star hotels and charming B&Bs and 2 nights in a ‘trullo’ on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (hotel taxes may apply ‑ payable locally, trullo subject to availability) Private transfers as noted and luggage transfer (max 15kgs pp) Wine and typical product tasting at Alberobello Sassi Matera guided visit and typical products tasting Emergency hotline Information pack including route notes, maps and roadbook per room booked
items not included Travel to Lecce and from Matera Beverages, lunches and 4 dinners (days 2, 4, 5 & 6) Train transportation and public bus (allow EUR30 per person) Travel insurance Hotel taxes (allow EUR10‑15) Note: Prices indicated above are subject to change
getting there BY CAR Driving routes can be accessed via the following websites: www.viamichelin. com BY TRAIN Lecce is well connected by train to many places throughout Italy. The train from Rome takes 5hrs 40mins. To view timetables and make bookings go to www. trenitalia.com. We are happy to assist you with your train bookings.
© 2011 World Expeditions Travel Group - Dana Garofani 11/1/2016 3:26:17 PM
Page 3
walking in puglia BY AIR The nearest airport for arrival into Lecce is Brindisi Airport. This airport is serviced by low cost flights with Alitalia and Ryanair. From Brindisi Airport you can take a shuttle bus directly to Lecce. There are regular buses daily with duration between 25‑40 minutes. See http://pugliairbus.aeroportidipuglia.it/ for timetables. Alternatively you can take a bus to the train station and a train to Lecce which takes 26 minutes. At the train station take a taxi to the joining B&B. If you arrive at Bari airport, take the train to Bari Centrale then another to Lecce. At the end of the trip the nearest airport to Matera is Bari. Trains operate to Bari, and buses operate directly to the airport: http://pugliairbus. aeroportidipuglia.it/default.aspx
trip grading - introductory to moderate
The walking is introductory to moderate (2) grade with daily walks between 3 and 4 hours. The accent is on keeping a steady pace with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. We recommend that you have some previous experience of trekking. Waymarking ‑ there are no official walking trails maintained by the government in Puglia nor waymarking. We have carefully constructed walking routes on mainly dirt paths and along rural trails but from time to time the farmers who also use these tracks may asphalt them. The maps are not of the same standard you would find in other walking destinations. However the countryside is wonderfully suited for walking and carefully reviewing the notes and visualising the route before you set out will optimise your walking and navigational experience.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering these medications.
a note on our self guided adventures
Self guided walking or cycling requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. On self guided cycling tours it is expected that you will know how to repair punctures and make minor adjustments to gears, handlebars and seats. For anything more serious, our local partner will be able to assist. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!) Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is all part of the adventure. If you’ve never been on a self guided trip, after the first couple of days you will get the hang of it as the vast majority of our first time travellers attest. Please be assured that our written material issued to you for route finding is updated regularly and we provide a 7day service hotline in the event of any problems. Using directions and maps can be more difficult for solo travellers as often two heads are better than one when it comes to finding your way. There is a certain level of the unknown that comes with self guided trips, however with a methodical approach potential problems will be averted. The freedom of a self guided trip is something that, once experienced, is sought time and time again.
© 2015 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 11/18/2016 1:28:09 AM
Page 4
walking in puglia joining instructions
Around 3 weeks before departure you will receive your hotel list and instructions on how to reach the first hotel. On check‑in at the first hotel you will receive the maps, roadbook and a detailed description of the route. If you have any questions on receipt of this information you should contact our partner who is happy to help.
the region
Puglia is a region in south‑eastern Italy and includes the heel of Italy’s boot. It stretches to the extreme south‑east of the peninsula and borders the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. In the north of the region there are the mountains of the Gargano peninsula and the Umbrian Forest. The coastal shores are partly rocky and partly sandy. The region is characterised by endless olive groves, long fields of grain and vineyards.
fast facts COUNTRIES VISITED Italy VISAS Visas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www. schengenvisainfo.com/schengen‑visa‑countries‑list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements. CLIMATE This trip runs from March to July and September to November. August is too hot for walking. Puglia has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and low rainfall. Spring and Autumn are usually warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 18 ‑ 25 degree Celsius and sometimes higher. MIN GROUP SIZE 1 SPECIALIST GEAR REQUIRED Wet weather gear, sunscreen, good walking boots / shoes and sun hat ‑ walking poles optional but recommended. (A comprehensive gear list is included in the pre‑departure information provided on booking).
luggage
You will need to carry your main luggage for a short distance in Matera. We recommend you bring either a suitcase with wheels or a bag you are able to carry comfortably.
how to book
To book a UTRACKS trip, complete our booking form which is found at the back of our brochure or can be downloaded from our website www.utracks.com. On completion, fax or post the form to your nearest UTRACKS or World Expeditions office along with full payment by cheque or credit card (note: surcharges apply for credit card payments). UTRACKS / World Expeditions has access to pre and post accommodation and competitive airfares to Europe. Call your nearest UTRACKS /World Expeditions office or travel agent for assistance with your travel arrangements including flights, travel insurance & additional accommodation.
follow us
https://www.facebook.com/UTracks © 2015 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 11/18/2016 1:28:09 AM
Page 5
walking in puglia https://www.instagram.com/utrackstravel/ https://twitter.com/UTracks_Travel There’s even more tips and ideas on our blog at http://www.utracks.com/discover
slide shows
UTracks invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel slide shows. These special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced and passionate adventure travellers. Ask our staff for a slide show schedule or register on our website – www.utracks.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
e-newsletter
To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our website, www.utracks. com or contact our office.
IMPORTANT NOTE
THESE TRIP NOTES REPRESENT THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION AVAILABLE FOR THIS ITINERARY, AND SUPERSEDE ANY INFORMATION DETAILED IN THE CURRENT BROCHURE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE ITINERARY AND PRICE.
talk to us
If you require any further assistance regarding this trip or any other adventure, please contact your nearest UTRACKS or World Expeditions office.
© 2015 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 11/18/2016 1:28:09 AM
Page 6
walking in puglia
AUSTRALIA UTracks / World Expeditions Level 5, 71 York St Sydney NSW 2000 T: (02) 8270 8488 F: (02) 8270 8489 Toll free: 1300 303 368
[email protected] Feel free to visit our World Expeditions offices in:• Melbourne • Perth • Brisbane • Adelaide (Thor Travel) Our staff will be happy to assist with your enquiries. For address and office phone numbers see our website at www.worldexpeditions.com NEW ZEALAND World Expeditions Level 1, 59-67 High St Auckland CBD PO Box 106-275 Auckland City 1143 T: (09) 368 4161 F: (09) 368 4162 Toll Free: 0800 350 354
[email protected]
CANADA - OTTAWA World Expeditions 47 William St Ottawa, Ontario Canada K1N 6Z9 T: 613 241 2700 F: 613 2414189 Toll Free: 1-800-567-2216
[email protected] UNITED KINGDOM World Expeditions 1B Osiers Road Wandsworth London SW18 1NL T: 0845 241 7599 F: 020 8870 7014 T: 1800 946 258 (Ireland)
[email protected]
© 2015 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 11/18/2016 1:28:09 AM
Page 7
