Cycling Route of the Apulian Aqueduct

Day 1 – Arrival in Barletta (Puglia, Italy)

Welcome to Barletta, a charming coastal city on the Adriatic Sea, famous for the legendary medieval “Challenge of Barletta” between Italian and French knights. Take time to explore its impressive seaside castle, the beautiful Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre, and the city’s artistic heritage.
Overnight stay in Barletta.

Day 2 – Cycling from Barletta to Venosa (70 km / +850 m)

After bike delivery and a short briefing, your cycling holiday in Southern Italy begins. Ride inland from the Adriatic coast towards the rolling hills of Basilicata. Along the way, you will pass through Canosa di Puglia before reaching Venosa, birthplace of the Roman poet Horace.
Overnight stay in Venosa.

Day 3 – Venosa to Castel del Monte (65 km / +750 m)

Today you start following the fascinating route of the Apulian Aqueduct, one of the most important engineering works in Italy. Passing through Palazzo San Gervasio and Spinazzola, you will return to Puglia and reach the spectacular Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the region’s iconic landmarks.
Overnight stay near Castel del Monte.

Day 4 – Castel del Monte to Cassano delle Murge (58 km / +400 m)

Cycle through the breathtaking landscapes of Alta Murgia National Park, known for its wide pastures, oak woods, and rural countryside. The stage ends in Cassano delle Murge, a peaceful village surrounded by nature.
Overnight stay in Cassano delle Murge.

Day 5 – Cassano delle Murge to Alberobello (60 km / +400 m)

Ride through authentic Apulian farmland and visit charming towns such as Gioia del Colle and Noci. Your destination is Alberobello, world-famous for its unique trulli houses and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Overnight stay in Alberobello.

Day 6 – Alberobello to Grottaglie (55 km / +350 m)

Leaving Alberobello behind, you will cycle across scenic aqueduct bridges and reach Locorotondo, one of the most beautiful white villages in Italy. Continue through the heart of the Itria Valley until you arrive in Grottaglie, renowned for its centuries-old ceramic tradition.
Overnight stay in Grottaglie.

Day 7 – Grottaglie to Nardò (80 km / +280 m)

This is the longest but easiest cycling stage, mostly flat and ideal for enjoying the landscapes of Salento. You will pass through San Marzano and Manduria, famous worldwide for Primitivo wine, before reaching the elegant baroque town of Nardò.
Overnight stay in Nardò.

Optional split:

• Grottaglie – Manduria (30 km)

• Manduria – Nardò (50 km)

Day 8 – Nardò to Santa Maria di Leuca (72 km / +470 m)

Your final ride takes you to Santa Maria di Leuca, the southernmost point of Puglia, where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet. Along the way, you will cross traditional villages such as Ruffano and Montesardo before reaching the end of the Apulian Aqueduct route.
Overnight stay in Santa Maria di Leuca.

Day 9 – Departure from Puglia

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to beautiful Puglia.
Arrivederci and safe travels home!