From Naples, the grand capital of southern Italy, we travel south to the magnificent Greek temples at Paestum. Standing immovable on this spot for more than 2000 years the three temples are quite simply spellbinding. Next we travel south into one of Italy's best kept secrets - the Cilento National Park. Here we enjoy a scenic boat journey around the mythical Cape Palinuro atop crystal clear seas with a chance of a refreshing swim. We settle in the charming Marina di Camerota from where we take a wonderful walk that brings us to a beach - once an ancient Roman harbour - where local fisherman will prepare our lunch. This evening we celebrate the food and traditions of the region with a 'Highlight Experience' dinner. We then travel a day through the Basilicata region, the real epitome of the 'Deep South'. Rural life here is simple and bucolic based around agriculture and community. The people are hardy and renowned for their conviction and are wonderfully hospitable. It is a melting pot of astounding nature and ancient villages that have survived generations of invaders. Continuing on we head to Matera a city literally hewn from the earth beneath it. Much of Matera lies underground built into caves. We end our tour in the region of Puglia, the heel of Italy’s ‘boot’, and a fascinating place to explore. Whitewashed cottages, intriguing and unique ‘trulli’ structures and the gently rolling hills surrounding Alberobello draw the curtain on a magical week.
Itinerary
| Day Number(s) | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | (Sun) Arrive in Naples. |
| 2 | Visit Greek temples at Paestum. Boat ride around Capo Palinuro. |
| 3 | Easy walking around coves of Cilento National Park. Lunch with local fisherman; scenic boatride back to Marina di Camerota. |
| 4 | En route to Matera, visit Roman site of Grumentum and ghost town of Craco. |
| 5 | Walking tour of fascinating Matera. |
| 6 | Visit Martina Franca. Visit tiny Locorotondo en route to Alberobello – town of the whitewashed 'trulli'. |
| 7 | Tour of Alberobello. Lunch and stories from Italy's last wolf hunter. |
| 8 | Trip ends after breakfast with transfer to Bari (Sun). |
Trip Highlights
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At A Glance
Trip Length |
8 days |
Trip Code |
PESI |
Activities |
|
| Walking (Easy), Culture (Easy) | |
Countries Visited |
|
| Italy | |
Start City |
|
| Naples | |
End City |
|
| Bari, Apulia, Italy | |
| * Per Person, Twin Share | |
