This 7-day Basilicata bike tour starts in Matera's cave-carved Sassi and finishes with wheels dipped in the Tyrrhenian Sea, covering the lesser-known Basilicata region of Italy. It includes climbing out of the Murgia plateau, rolling through clay badlands, and grinding up into Pollino National Park before dropping into Maratea's cliffside finish. The tour emphasizes remote, quiet cycling with challenging climbs and descents, suitable for those seeking an alternative to crowded destinations. The accommodation varies with the terrain, including a hotel in Matera, a traditional masseria (working farmhouse retreat) in the countryside, a seaside hotel on the Ionian coast, a mountain inn in Pollino National Park, and a final stay in the historic village of Maratea. The route is suitable for road, gravel, or e-bikes, with daily distances up to 85 km (53 mi). Specific challenging days include a demanding 10 km (6 mi) climb on day 4 and a full mountain stage through Pollino National Park on day 5. The tour includes an experienced local cycling guide, 5 days of cycling over 7 days, accommodation for 6 nights, most meals (6 breakfasts, 2 light lunches, 6 dinners), airport transfers from Bari Airport (BRI) to Matera, van support, luggage transfers, technical and emergency assistance, and GPX tracks. The adventure architect service allows for custom-designed adventures, and private group bookings are available with customized dates, group sizes, terrain, guides, and accommodations.
Arrival in Matera
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Into the Calanchi badlands
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A pioneer's route to the Ionian
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Toward Pollino National Park
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On the peaks of the massif
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Maratea village
Departure
Hotel
A dedicated guide for this region is not available yet.
