Italy Coast to Coast by E-bike: Puglia to Sorrento

Italy Coast to Coast by E-bike: Puglia to Sorrento

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8 Days From

$4198

$3990

Italy Coast to Coast by E-bike: Puglia to Sorrento

8 Days Starting in Monopoli and ending in Sorrento

Visiting: Monopoli, Matera, Castelmezzano, Montesano sulla Marcellana, Padula, Paestum, Salerno, Amalfi, Sorrento

Tour operator:

Exodus

Tour code:

MEI3

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 16

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans

Tour operated in:
English
Trip Styles:

Active

Interests:

Cultural, History

Activities:

Cycling, Sightseeing, Walking

From:
$4198
$3990 (USD) Operator discount: -$208

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Combining highlights from two of our most popular Italian cycling trips, this itinerary offers the challenge of riding right across southern Italy, with the added support of an e-bike. Starting from the coastal city of Monopoli, we take quiet routes through the mountainous Basilicata and Campania regions, finishing at Sorrento on the Tyrrhenian Sea. The trip includes time in the Unesco-listed city of Matera, home to ancient cave dwellings, plus lesser-known (but no less beautiful) attractions, including Castelmezzano, a postcard-ready mountainside village where we stay for a night. Our journey ends with a memorable ride along the scenic Amalfi Coast all the way to Sorrento.



For those seeking a challenge, it is possible to join this trip with a road bike rather than an e-bike. Please see our 'Is this trip for you?' section under Essential Info for more information.

Did you know you can travel by train to this trip? Find out more here

Highlights

  • Stroll through the Unesco-listed Sassi district of Matera, home to ancient cave dwellings

  • Visit the well-preserved Greek temples of Paestum

  • Stay in mountainside Castelmezzano, one of the prettiest villages in Italy

  • Cycle the Amalfi Coast, one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Start In The Coastal City Of Monopoli

Location: Monopoli

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: No Meals

We start in the historic coastal city of Monopoli. Depending on when the group arrives, we might have time for a relaxing stroll through the town’s narrow alleys and along the Adriatic shore. We strongly recommend arriving a day or two early to visit some of the other regional highlights, including the Unesco-listed town of Alberobello, home to trulli (traditional stone huts with conical roofs), or Ostuni, known as the White City for its whitewashed old town. Speak to your sales representative to book pre-tour accommodation.

Day 2 : Ride Through Fields And Ancient Olive Groves To The Unesco City Of Matera

Location: Matera

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breakfast

Today we start cycling from the coast and go inland, heading for Matera, one of the most fascinating cities in southern Italy. A warm-up climb brings us onto a large rolling plateau, where we pedal through fennel fields and ancient olive groves. We pass several Apulian villages, where we stop to regroup, take a coffee or rest. As we cross into the Basilicata region for the last part of the route, we cycle through open fields and partly along the , also known as the Appian Way, an ancient Roman road that was strategically vital to the empire. We should reach the Unesco-listed town of Matera in the afternoon with time for a relaxing stroll in the Sassi district, home to ancient cave dwellings, and for an aperitivo in one of the beautiful squares. You are free to choose from the wide selection of restaurants and pizzerias for your evening meal; however, the leader can suggest a spot for a group meal for those interested.



Ascent: 3,115ft (950m)

Day 3 : Challenging Ride Into The Heart Of Basilicata To The Mountainside Village Of Castelmezzano

Location: Castelmezzano

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breakfastdinner

Today will be our longest ride but the destination will be more than worth the effort. We start with an easy downhill through fields towards the Lake of St Giuliano. We then follow an old road along a ridge, encountering several historic villages, including the old Byzantine capital of Tricarico, before arriving in sight of the Lucan Dolomites, known as the Dolomites of the South.



We have a downhill ride and gather strength for the challenging but rewarding steep climb to Castelmezzano, a beautiful village clinging to a sandstone mountain. The support vehicle is available if you would prefer to skip this last ascent. Castelmezzano, rated as one of the prettiest villages in Italy, is very remote and set in a breath-taking location with mountain views – a perfect reward for our long ride today. A short walk through the village and up to the Norman steps is a must before dinner at the hotel restaurant. Overnight in Castelmezzano.



Ascent: 6,235ft (1,900m)

Day 4 : Cross The Border Into Campania By Bike And Reach Montesano

Location: Montesano sulla Marcellana

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breakfastdinner

Today we head west into the Campania region. In the morning, we cross the National Park of the Basilicata Apennines, a sparsely populated wilderness area of mountain scenery and historic villages. Towards the end of the afternoon, after a last challenging climb, we reach the top of the ridge between Basilicata and the Campania region. From here, we cycle down into the Vallo di Diano, a fertile high plain with several beautiful medieval towns. We settle into Montesano sulla Marcellana, a beautiful hilltop village.



Ascent: 4,920ft (1,500m)

Day 5 : Ride To Corleto Sant'angelo And Spend A Night In A Family-Run Agriturismo

Location: Padula

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breakfastdinner

Today's ride is relatively short, allowing us time to sightsee. We first cycle down to Padula, where we recommend paying a morning visit to the Padula Charterhouse, the largest monastery in Italy and Unesco World Heritage site. After the visit, we get on our bikes again and cycle into the heart of Cilento National Park. First, we follow a mainly flat route through the Vallo di Diano and continue with a climb up the Sentinella pass (3,058ft/932m), which winds high above the plain. The last part of the route descends into Cilento National Park, where we settle into our homely agriturismo with a pool. We have lunch (if we arrive on time), after which we can relax or go for a short optional ride to the nearby ghost town of Roscigno, which was abandoned in the early 20th century after a landslide. Tonight, we dine at the agriturismo on local specialties prepared with organic produce.



Ascent: 2,460ft (750m)

Day 6 : Cycle To The Coastal Town Of Paestum; Visit The Excellently Preserved Greek Temples

Location: Paestum

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breakfastdinner

Today we ride in the shadow of the Alburni Mountains making our way down to the Tyrrhenian Sea. Early in the afternoon, we arrive at the excellently preserved Greek temples of Paestum. Our hotel is close, so we have time to visit this impressive archaeological site, home to three columned temples dedicated to the Greek gods Hera and Athena. Alternatively, you could opt to relax at the swimming pool. The sea is only a few minutes’ away by bike, so you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the late afternoon. Tonight, we eat at the hotel.



Ascent: 3,280ft (1,000m)

Day 7 : Train Ride To Salerno; Cycle One Of The Most Spectacular Coastal Roads In The World To Sorrento Via Amalfi

Location: Salerno, Amalfi, Sorrento

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breakfast

We start the day with an early train ride to Salerno. Here we get on our bikes and begin our final cycle along one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world: the Amalfi Coast. After a short climb up to Vietri, we follow the undulating coastal route to Cetara and continue uphill to the dramatic viewpoint of Capo d’Orso. We then head towards Amalfi itself, where we have time for a short stop and stroll. In the afternoon, we ride past Positano and cross the ridge to then wind down to the resort town of Sorrento. Here we can toast our accomplishment with a drink or two at the beach and a dive into the Bay of Naples in sight of Mount Vesuvius. Those who wish can opt for a stroll in the historic centre, or perhaps just a few hours of relaxation. In the evening, we gather together for a last evening meal (optional).



Ascent: 4,590ft (1,400m)

Day 8 : End Sorrento

Location: Sorrento

Meals Included: breakfast

The trip ends this morning, but if want to explore more of this stunning part of Italy speak to your sales representative about adding extra nights in Sorrento or the Amalfi Coast.

What's Included

  • Meals
    7 breakfasts, 0 lunches, 4 dinners.

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

  • Single accommodation (available on request)

  • Visas and vaccinations

  • Local city taxes (approximately €15)

Food

All breakfasts and four dinners are included.



A typical hotel breakfast consists of toast/bread with jam or honey, cereal, cheese and ham, served with coffee, tea, milk, orange juice, fruit, cake and yoghurt. Lunches are normally arranged as picnics or taken in small cafes along the route. Four dinners are included on this trip and they normally consist of a three-course menu with a choice of regional specialities. Vegetarians and people with special dietary requirements can be catered for but please inform us prior to travel.

Accommodation

We spend six nights in different three- and four-star hotels and one night in a traditional agriturismo – a beautifully converted farmhouse in Cilento National Park. The hotels have been chosen for their warm hospitality and their typical Italian character. Some have a swimming pool or beach nearby, which will be greatly appreciated in summer. Most of the hotels have restaurants serving typical regional cuisine and delicious local produce.



List of hotels normally used:



Monopoli: Palazzo Indelli

Matera: Hotel Italia

Castelmezzano: Becco Della Civetta

Padula: Grand Hotel Certosa

Bellosguardo: Agriturismo Villa Vea

Paestum: Hotel Villa Rita

Sorrento: Hotel Ulisse

Check out our Q&As

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 16 years old.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, our local guides are English speaking.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.

  • Who is Exodus Travels?

    At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included with this tour.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews of this Operator

Gergana Racheva  

Very helpful and prompt service

06-Jan-2023

Very helpful and prompt service. I called to check for an already booked trip and once we sorted this, the agent was ready to help me with another booking as well. He actually waited for me to book my flight tickets, answered all my questions, informed me of all my options. Exodus is a tour company I am using regularly due to the quality of their trips, ease of booking and helpfulness of their customer service team

Trustpilot
Tim Hardy  

Stunning walking. Walking the Amalfi Coast

04-Nov-2021

This trip takes you through the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean walking with a guide and also discovering the wonders of Pompeii and Vesuvius. The hotel had a nice feel as family run, spotless and comfortable rooms, we were well looked after for breakfasts and dinner each day, and the barmen fixed some mean cocktails for us.!

Paul Green  

It's amazing what you can do in a week! Cycling the Dalmatian Coast.

08-Oct-2021

This holiday was extremely enjoyable. The itinerary is well planned and the route takes you to a variety of destinations. Not having been to Croatia before I didn't know there were so many beautiful small islands and I loved the ferry and catarmaran rides. The coastal route we took was dramatic and the World Heritage sites in Split and Dubrovnik very interesting and worth visiting. The Adriatic Sea was warm, blue and inviting, good for swimming even in October. The hotels we stayed in varied in size from medium to large. I particularly liked the one just outside Dubrovnik as I had a sea view. Tourists were plentiful in Split and Dubrovnik but in the other places we stayed there was an end of season feel and it was quiet on the roads and in the resorts. The food was good and our guide was always able to recommend a nice restaurant for our evening meal. The weather in October was good for cycling - not hot, partly cloudy most days and one day it rained!

Mrs Y Morrison  

Fabulous company and trip

06-Jan-2023

We went overland from Cape Town to Zimbabwe through Botswana and Namibia. What a fantastic trip. Our first time with Exodus although we have travelled extensively around the world. We would highly recommend this company for such a brilliant trip - we got everything and more all at a good price. Thanks to everyone involved. We are looking at our next trip!

Trustpilot
John Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I went cycling in Albania...

19-Aug-2023

I went cycling in Albania with exodus as my first holiday with them. Such a well organised and wonderful experience where I met multiple fellow travellers who have been advocates of them for many years. You can't argue with happy repeat customers and I'm planning my next adventure with them soon

Rob Burridge (Google Reviewer)  

I'v just come back from...

17-Jul-2022

I'v just come back from an amazing Wildlife & Wilderness trip in Botswana and I highly recommend Exodus Travels. Our guide Brian, was extremely knowledgeable on both the wildlife and history of Botswana and neighbouring countries. The other three staff, Abbis, Chief & Mr T, who accompanied us through out our 2 week trip, put in the hard work and made sure our camp was always prepared and that we we're well fed and looked after. The tour took us to some beautiful places and we saw some amazing wildlife, and on several occasions this was due to Brian's knowledge of the area and wildlife behaviour. Exodus have been very quick to respond to any queries I had, and the whole experience ran smoothly. I was also pleased to hear that during lockdown they provided staff with food packages 👍. I'd normally go on self organised trips, however, with this trip, the tour and guide Brian took us to places not possible otherwise and showed us things that we would'v missed out on. All of which were the highlights of the tour.

Daphne Partridge (Google Reviewer)  

After 14 roup adventure holidays...

26-Nov-2023

After 14 roup adventure holidays with Exofus we would not hesitate to recommend them as an excitingholiday company. They take you off the beaten track but offer great support and expertise :)

Alison Payton (Google Reviewer)  

I've done 8 trips in...

17-May-2023

I've done 8 trips in the last 14 years with Exodus, and have been rewarded with a 10% discount on all future bookings. I feel very confident that I'll receive pleasant, efficient service, and have the unusual holiday experience that I'm looking for each time. I've trekked to the top of snow-capped peaks, wild-camped in the desert, seen amazing spectacles of nature, visited 4 capital cities in a week, and learned about local culture and experienced local hospitality in a way that I simply wouldn't on a conventional holiday. The quality of the accommodation and guides can vary, but this is mainly down to cultural differences and things that Exodus can't control. I've only ever complained once, my complaint was taken seriously, and I was sent a discount voucher - you can't say fairer than that. I remain a loyal customer.

Jacquelyn Moore (Google Reviewer)  

Food came quickly. Staff very...

07-Mar-2024

Food came quickly. Staff very friendly and polite . However the chef or person preparing the food did not seem to read the menu! If it says a meal should come with vegetables, you should not have to ask for them. They served shepherds pie with garlic bread! The munchies ice cream sundae said it should come in a glass with a flake but came in a little bowl with just a few munchies! When asking the staff were happy to replace and correct but customer should get what they order and what menu says first time round!!

johanna leonor (Google Reviewer)  

If you like to be...

07-Sep-2023

If you like to be mistreated Exodus is perfect for you. If you enjoy terrible choices for hotels and pseudo restaurants Exodus is perfect for you. Careless about their clients and loveless about their propositions. Exodus has been a dissatisfaction and disappointment about every dealing i and my group have had with him. Especially a man called Simone who just cares about the money he can get from you couldn’t care less about service.

Dates & Availability

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

May 05, 2024 - May 12, 2024
$4425 (USD)
Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 15, 2024 - Sep 22, 2024
$4198 $3990 (USD)

Operator discount: -$208 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 13, 2024 - Oct 20, 2024
$4125 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exodus allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus, 43 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exodus requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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