Magna Grecia road bike tour

A thrilling cycling tour through Southern Italy, from Apulia’s olive groves and trulli to Matera’s Sassi. Ride along Basilicata’s Ionian coast with golden beaches and ancient sites, cross Pollino National Park, and finish on Calabria’s Tyrrhenian coast, enjoying breathtaking views, nature, and history at every turn.

This nine-day tour spans seven stages, covering about 600 km with 8,300 meters of elevation gain—perfect for medium-experienced cyclists. It combines stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and authentic flavours, such as Altamura bread, Matera’s crispy peppers, and Calabrian specialities. It’s an unforgettable adventure on two wheels!

Day 1:
Arrival at Bari or Brindisi airport and transfer to the hotel in Castellana Grotte.

Day 2:
Stage 1: Castellana Grotte Loop with Alberobello (approx. 75 km with 800 m elevation gain)
The first day offers a captivating loop starting and ending in Castellana Grotte, exploring the Trulli region and the renowned Alberobello. You’ll cycle through countryside dotted with trulli, dry-stone walls, and centuries-old olive trees, passing authentic villages and breathtaking landscapes. Alberobello greets us with its unique trulli and the charm of the Itria Valley. This rolling terrain is perfect for warming up for the upcoming stages. Upon return, a visit to the Castellana Caves, with their extraordinary limestone formations, is a fitting conclusion to the day.

Day 3:
Stage 2: From Castellana Grotte to Matera (100 km with 900 m elevation gain)
This epic stage takes us from Castellana Grotte to historic Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, we pass through Altamura, famous for its DOP bread and stunning cathedral, and Gravina in Puglia, with its charming historic centre and aqueduct bridge. The route combines hilly and flat sections, providing a varied and rewarding ride. Arriving in Matera is an unforgettable experience: its famed Sassi and ancient caves create a unique spectacle, best explored through a guided tour.

Day 4:
Stage 3: Matera Loop to Lake San Giuliano (85 km with 1,400 m elevation gain)
The third stage is a loop from Matera to the San Giuliano Lake Nature Reserve, a peaceful oasis surrounded by nature. You’ll cycle through gentle hills, golden fields, and rural landscapes, enjoying stunning views and encounters with local wildlife. This is a perfect day to immerse yourself in tranquillity, followed by relaxation in Matera’s historic ambience. Conclude the day with a traditional dinner in one of its rock-carved restaurants.

Day 5:
Stage 4: From Matera to Metaponto (83 km with 1,250 m elevation gain)
Leaving Matera, this stage takes us toward the Ionian coast, blending history and nature. You’ll traverse plains filled with olive groves and cultivated fields, transitioning from hilly to coastal scenery. Metaponto, an ancient Magna Graecia colony, welcomes us with its archaeological treasures, such as the Temple of Hera, and golden Ionian beaches. After a day of cycling, unwind with a sunset over the sea and savour local specialities like fresh seafood and regional wines.

Day 6:
Stage 5: From Policoro to Oriolo via Rocca Imperiale (70 km with 1,000 m elevation gain)
This stage takes us inland, from Policoro to Oriolo, with a stop in Rocca Imperiale, renowned for its medieval castle and fragrant IGP lemons. The route winds through hills and valleys, offering spectacular views of the coast and Lucanian hinterland. Oriolo, a hilltop village with a charming historic center, welcomes us at the end of the day. This stage combines enchanting landscapes, history, and unique flavors, providing a full cultural and sensory immersion.

Day 7:
Stage 6: From Oriolo to Morano Calabro via Civita (80 km with 1,200 m elevation gain)
This day takes us through some of Calabria’s most picturesque villages. Starting from Oriolo, you’ll cycle to Civita, famous for its views of Pollino National Park and the Devil’s Bridge. The route continues to Morano Calabro, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, with its maze of alleys and imposing castle. The climbs and descents along the way challenge your legs, but the stunning landscapes and warm welcomes of the villages make every effort worthwhile.

Day 8:
Stage 7: From Morano Calabro to Praia a Mare via Arcomagno Beach (75 km with 1,500 m elevation gain)
The final stage leads from the heart of Pollino National Park to the Tyrrhenian coast, with a stop at the stunning Arcomagno Beach, a hidden natural gem nestled among cliffs. The route alternates between hilly terrain and exhilarating descents toward the sea, offering unforgettable views. Arriving in Praia a Mare, with its beaches and Dino Island, is the perfect finale to the Magna Grecia Tour. After an exhilarating week of cycling, relax on the Tyrrhenian coast and celebrate the conclusion of an unforgettable adventure.

Day 9:
Departure: Transfer to Naples Airport (or Naples City) or Lamezia Terme Airport.

Total distance: 600 km

Total elevation gain: 8300 m

Season: from September to June

Included:

• 7 road bike guided excursions
• Qualified bike guide (Italian and English)
• 3 nights in 3/4 star Hotel/Agriturismo. Double or twin room. Half board accommodation, including water. Other beverages not included
• 5 nights in 3/4 star hotel. Double or twin room. B&B accommodation
• Luggage transfer from one accommodation to another
• Van support
• Transfer from Bari/Brindisi airport at arrival and to Naples/Lamezia Terme airport at departure

Extras:

• Single room accommodation: €300 per person
• Road bike rental (or e-bike) Giant TCR carbon: starting from €220 for the whole tour

What to wear and bring with you:

• Comfortable clothes suitable for biking, at least 2 complete sets and gloves
• Bike shoes or closed shoes e.g. trainers (no flip-flops or sandals!)
• A rain/wind jacket
• Sunglasses & sun cream
• A camera or smartphone if you want to take pictures
• A spirit of fun and adventure!