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Join us for a 7-day adventure through Puglia and Basilicata, blending stunning scenery, rich history, authentic Italian food, and easy countryside trekking during the Italian Christmas season. Highlights include the ancient Sassi of Matera, the underground Castellana Caves, and the mountain villages of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa in the dramatic Appenines and the Piccole Dolomiti Lucane. Ring in New Year's Eve with traditional local fare in Castelmezzano, soaking up the everyday charm of mountain village life. Expect scenic treks, historic towns, delicious regional cuisine, and — weather permitting — the magic of snow-capped peaks. With comfortable bases in Castellana Grotte and Potenza, we'll have plenty of time to explore. It's the perfect way to welcome 2027 with adventure, culture, food, and great company.TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
👥 Small Group Travel – Limited number of people
🏨 Accommodation in 3 & 4 Star Hotels on BB and sharing basis
🚐 Transport in a comfortable minivan
📍 Visits to:
🕳️ Castellana Cavern – one of Italy's most spectacular show-cave systems, descending circa 70m underground, walking through chambers with names like "La Grave" and the brilliant-white "Grotta Bianca" ✨
⛪ Palombaro Lungo – Matera's underground water cathedral beneath Piazza Vittorio Veneto
🏛️ Alberobello – the home of the Trulli
🎨 Crypt of the Original Sin ("Sistine Chapel of rock art")
🚶 Urban Trek around the historical town of Matera, where people live in caves converted to residences to this day. Lots to see here — the Sassi, cathedrals, old palaces and more!
🥂 New Year's Eve in the regional capital – Potenza and the enchanting town of Castelmezzano
📍 More visits to:
🏔️ The enchanting and mesmerising Castelmezzano, wedged between two mountains
⛰️ The Dolomiti Lucane – Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa
🏰 The Castelmezzano Norman castle and steps
💦 A series of waterfalls that converge into one large pool set within a forest
🏡 The Pietragalla Palmenti – abandoned hobbit looking dwellings; unique, partially subterranean stone structures with green roofs 🍃
🚶♂️ Walk down Via Pretoria (Italy's longest pedestrian street) and the town's historic centre
🥾 Trek through the rock spires in Castelmezzano – Moderate 90-minute trail
🌿 Trek around Lago del Pantano di Pignola and countryside, a WWF oasis
💧 Trek to a series of waterfalls and enjoy relaxing to the soothing sound of the crashing water
🍽️ Typical lunch at Hermit's Cave (price not included)
🌉 Take on a walk across a suspension bridge (optional) above the Castalda canyon
💰 PRICE: ONLY €675 💰
✅ Includes:
🏨 Accommodation in 3 and 4 Star accommodation on Twin/Sharing basis
🚐 Transport – rental of minivan, fuel, van insurance, road tolls, and parking etc.
🎟️ All excursions
🕳️ Visit to the Grotte di Castellana
🧑✈️ Services of Tour Leader, Driver and Trekking Leader
❌ Not Including:
✈️ Flights – Malta / Bari / Malta by Ryanair
🛡️ Insurance
🍴 Meals
🎫 Entrance fees except for the Grotte Castellana
💶 Tips
💰 Personal expenses
⚠️ Limited places available
📌 Booking on a First Come, First Booked/Paid basis
Deposit of €300 to be paid upon booking by the 15th October.
A full programme will be sent out to those interested closer to the dates.
📞 For further information contact Bernard – 7947 8255
This event is being organised for Leisure Ventures friends and their friends and you are welcome to invite them along.
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Bari, Italy
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