Basilicata and Calabria Bike Tours
Little Basilicata touches two seas and is known for forests and mountains; while Calabria, last stop before Sicily, is a spicy mix of Greek, Latin, African and Norman influences. Basilicata and Calabria are where the ‘Mezzogiorno’ (Southern Italy) shows all its throbbing intensity. Long stereotyped as the poorer, more passionate regions they are finally being appreciated for their true richness. Laundry hung on weather-worn balconies, scooters speeding down medieval alleys and ancient towns crumbling under Mediterranean suns. But look past the tv ad stereotypes and you’ll find things altogether more complex and wonderful; gritty, unsentimental cities with pedigrees stretching back thousands of years; dramatically broken coastlines that have harbored fisherfolk and pirates for millennia; and above all, proud and generous people, eager to share all their special delights with you.
Essence of Basilicata and Calabria
- Enjoy the captivating clusters of conical “trulli” structures, the region’s typical architecture
- The constant perfume of orange and eucalyptus
- Amazing guided visits of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites
- Experience “Old World” hospitality from Italian natives
- Sampling freshly-made Mozzarella and fresh peperoncini
Add Exclusive Travel Offers and Stories to Your Inbox
Ciclismo Your Way
Don’t see what you’re looking for among any of our existing itineraries? We can create a trip just for you!
The Experience
Culture
From Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to over 1,000 trulli, to Matera, a town that is simply unique, it warrants exploration and aimless wandering. Although many buildings are crumbling and abandoned, others have been restored and transformed into cozy abodes.
Food & Wine
The two regions of Calabria and Basilicata celebrate produce and seafood along with hearty, local red wines. Many dishes are a mix of fresh ingredients, preserved vegetables, and meats and fish with oil and spices.
Landscape
See and experience an Italy you never imagined, as our bike trip takes us from Puglia into the trulli region with its captivating clusters of conical trulli structures, and across the Basilicata region to Matera, the famous city of stone. We’ll ride through vast cultivated fields, natural preserves, lava formations, and tiny ancient towns.
Best Time to Visit
April through end of October
What to Bring on Tour
On the Bike:
- 2-3 pairs of cycling shorts with chamois lining
- Chamois cream
- 2-3 brightly colored bicycle jerseys (one will be provided by us)
- Cycling gloves
- Cycling shoes and pedals (if you use them)
- Sunglasses
- Waterproof wind breaker or rain jacket
- Light weight jacket or vest
- Bicycle helmet
- Day pack/hip pack
- Arm and leg warmers
- Saddle (optional)
Off the Bike:
- 2-3 interchangeable evening outfits – our style is very casual and comfortable; jacket and tie not necessary
- We occasionally have a more formal evening, feel free to bring something for that occasion
- 1-2 lightweight sweaters
- 1-2 pairs of shorts or slacks
- Intimate clothing/sleepwear
- Comfortable walking shoes for evenings in town
For Alpine Tours:
Pack warmer clothing (layers), waterproof gear, warm gloves and hat
Personal Supplies:
- Passport and photocopies of your passport
- Wallet ☐ Airline ticket/e-ticket information
- Camera and camera charger
- Cell phone
- Electrical adapter and adapter plug
- Toiletries
- Prescriptions or other medications
- Bathing suit and sunscreen
- Cash for guide gratuity and meals on own
- Cash for wine kitty (optional)