FREE EVENT – On a Vespa through the Sea, Countryside, and Trulli of the Itria Valley – November 23, 2024

Description

I tour sono GRATUITI (indicativo solo per i costi relativi al carburante) in quanto tutti i servizi sono omaggiati grazie alla misura “Nuovi prodotti turistici” promossa da ARET Puglia – Pugliapromozione.

This itinerary offers a day filled with discovery, moving from the stunning Adriatic coast to inland villages and the scenic countryside of the Itria Valley, blending history, nature, food, and artisan culture. The tour begins in Polignano a Mare, famous for its cliffs and marine caves. After a brief introduction, we’ll start our Vespa journey along the coast toward Monopoli, with panoramic views over the Adriatic.

In Monopoli, we’ll explore the picturesque historic center, a maze of whitewashed streets and quaint squares. Here, participants can visit the Carlo V Castle and the Cathedral of the Madonna della Madia, admiring baroque architecture and the city’s maritime past. A peaceful stroll along the ancient port completes the immersion into Monopoli’s charm.

Leaving Monopoli, the route follows the coastal road southward toward the Egnazia Archaeological Site, a significant Roman city. Here, participants can tour the well-preserved ruins, including ancient walls, tombs, and Roman roads, discovering the region’s history with a guided tour of the site and its museum.

After Egnazia, the tour heads through the Lama d’Antico Park, a natural area filled with caves and ancient settlements. En route, we’ll stop in Speziale at a local farm hosting “Agrobistrot.” Here, guests will enjoy a picnic among the olive trees, savoring fresh, locally grown produce like extra virgin olive oil, vegetables, cheeses, and country bread. This break offers a relaxing moment under the olive trees, immersing participants in the authentic flavors of rural Puglia.

After the picnic, we head to Cisternino, one of the most charming villages in the Valle d’Itria. In Cisternino’s old town, known for its whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and breathtaking valley views, we’ll pause for a brief exploration before continuing to Locorotondo. This leg takes us through picturesque country roads lined with trulli in the heart of the Itria Valley.

In Locorotondo, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, participants will stroll through the historic center with its white houses and flower-filled balconies, while narrow streets reveal scenic valley views.

On the return journey, we’ll stop at the renowned Santoro Salumificio, famous for artisanal cured meats like the Capocollo of Martina Franca. Here, participants will discover traditional curing techniques and taste some local products.

After this stop, we’ll pass through the Selva di Fasano, a lush hilly area with panoramic views stretching from the Itria Valley to the sea. This scenic road offers a final chance to enjoy Puglia’s natural beauty before returning to Polignano a Mare.

Back in Polignano a Mare, we’ll conclude the day with an immersive and authentic culinary experience: a cooking class featuring iconic Apulian dishes. Guests will learn to make traditional Apulian pasta, orecchiette, guided by local chefs who pass down generations-old techniques. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients, participants will master this symbol of Apulian cuisine.

Besides orecchiette, participants will also prepare the flavorful Apulian focaccia, crispy and rich with Mediterranean flavors thanks to extra virgin olive oil and local tomatoes. Finally, they’ll craft almond pastries, a delightful local specialty that combines the sweetness of regional almonds with traditional flavors.

This cooking class is the perfect culmination of the tour, offering a hands-on experience that lets participants take home a piece of Puglia—not just as a memory, but as a new culinary skill.

This itinerary offers a complete experience that combines history, culture, gastronomy, and artisan crafts, all set against the unique and stunning backdrop of the Itria Valley and Puglia’s Adriatic coast. A journey that promises to reveal the authentic beauty of the region in a personal and sustainable way.

For information about our experiences and bookings, visit our website or contact us. We will be happy to answer all your questions and help you plan your visit.