Cycling the Itria Valley

Cycle to Castellana Grotte

about 35km

Today you will know one of the principal phenomena of this territory, the karst stone with its rock formations. Following gentle undulations, oak forests, vineyards and olive trees you will cycle up to the largest karst caves in Italy. The magnificent caves of Castellana are a truly unique experience: they run underground for over three kilometers in an atmosphere between evocative power and magic, reflections with stalagmites and stalactites grown with ancestral rhythms.
Back to Alberobello: another night among trulli is awaiting you.

From Alberobello to Martina Franca

about 17km

The route is almost completely flat; the only ascent will be the one that will take you to the town of Martina Franca.
San Martino is the patron saint of the city, from which it takes its name. The name "Franca", which means "free of expenses", was given by Prince Philip of Anjou in the 14th century, to exempt the city from paying taxes.
Besides the arch entrance of the old town, along the main street a rich and elegant scenery of striking buildings and churches will open up. Here the typical Baroque becomes almost Rococò and combining with the white lime creates an entirely unique style full of exotic charm.
To satisfy eyes and palate, don’t miss the famous local products: the Capocollo, Puglia appreciated cold cut, Slow Food Presidium since 2007, and the Bocconotto, sweet shortbread with a cream and black cherry heart, to taste strictly at Café Nuova Tripoli.
Overnight in Martina Franca.

From Martina Franca to Ostuni via Ceglie Messapica

about 35km

Day dedicated to the town of Ceglie Messapica, a small town where art and food coexist harmoniously…
In the centre a Norman Tower over 30m high overlooks the entire complex. All around an ancient and surreal atmosphere that ranges from the time of Messapians ancestors to Medieval times. Ceglie is  considered the gastronomic capital of the Itria valley: stop for lunch at one of its restaurants and check it for yourself! From the mashed Fava-beans accompanied by wild vegetables to the special Cookie of Ceglie, a Slow Food product, you will eat like locals do everyday.
Great help for digestion, a ride towards Ostuni, the White City par excellence. The custom of whitewashing the walls with lime dates back to the Middle Ages, to make brighter and fresher the narrow alleys. Besides being a natural disinfectant lime prevented the spread of the plague when an epidemic broke out in the 17th century.
Overnight in Ostuni.

Ostuni

After breakfast end of services.
If you have not already done so try to look for the shop of the master craftsman Tonino Zurlo and his fine works in olive wood.

Tour programme variations
Due to organizational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during the holiday.
Along the way you may find temporary deviations (for example road works) which cannot be foreseen; in this case each biker can decide autonomously how to deal with these stretches.