Contrasts of Puglia

An outright winner from the start, this independent 7-night cycling holiday explores a sun-soaked region of empty beaches, unspoilt villages, and low fertile hills rolling down into the clear emerald seas of the Adriatic.Firmly tucked away 'on the heel of Italy's boot', Puglia offers extraordinary variety and beauty with a dramatically rugged coast providing total contrast to the lush interior. Your holiday starts just outside the historic town of Monopoli where you spend the first 2 nights. You then pedal north up the coast, passing hidden coves and gold sand beaches, where you have the chance to lunch in colourful fishing villages before heading inland. Here, you'll be intoxicated by the rich colours of the landscape - olive groves, fruit orchards, vineyards and ruby-red fields - all intensified by the wonderful limpid light of the Adriatic. Highlights include staying in unique Alberobello - a UNESCOWorld Heritage Site - and visiting the postcard-pretty white village of Ostuni as you wind your way back towards the sea.