Coast to Caves Puglia Italian Fitness Adventure 5th-13th June 2026

LOCATION Italy
Start Date 4:00pm, Fri, 5th June 2026
Duration 9 Days
  • Description
  • Tour Plan
  • What You'll Get
  • WHY You'll LOve This
  • FAQS
  • TESTIMONIALS

Description

Coast to Caves: Puglia Italian Fitness Adventure

9 days – 8 nights

Our Coast to Caves journey is a celebration of connection, movement and self‑care set against the sun‑drenched backdrop of southern Italy. Rather than racing from site to site, we slow down to appreciate the details – the salty breeze on a cliff hike, the scent of citrus groves in the Valle d’Itria, the cool quiet of an ancient cave church. From our base in Alberobello we meander through UNESCO‑listed trulli villages, wander under cobalt skies along the Adriatic coast and follow country lanes through vineyards and olive groves towards hill‑top towns.

Each day on the trail is designed to be moderately challenging yet achievable with the support of your Women’s Fitness Adventures CREW Leader and local hiking guide.  Distances range from 7–18 km with gentle elevation changes (up to ~300 m). We build rest and exploration into the itinerary, allowing time to savour local gelato, shop for linens or simply sit in a piazza with new friends. Our rest day in Alberobello is a chance to recharge, while the final two days in Matera reveal the stories of the Sassi cave dwellings through guided hikes in the surrounding Murgia Park and through the canyons and cave‑strewn paths of the old town.

As with all Women’s Fitness Adventures, we provide a structured training program before departure, a supportive leadership team on the ground and a community of women who will become your hiking sisters. Comfortable hotel accommodation and private bus transfers mean you can focus on the experience, not the logistics. Join us in Italy’s heel for an enriching, confidence‑building journey from the sparkling coast to the silent caves.

We’ve graded the adventure as INTRO PLUS-MODERATE. You can read more about the Adventure Type & Grading, as well as Fitness Levels, further down the page. Please ensure that you read the Booking Terms and Conditions associated with this adventure before you make your booking. They can be found on the FAQ page for this adventure.

If you are a Women’s Fitness Adventures member, be sure to log in to access member prices.

Not a member yet, click here for more information.

Tour Plan

Friday 5th June 2026
Arrive Bari, Italy – transfer to Alberello

 

Today we meet at the hotel in Alberobello, Italy, about a 55 minute transfer from Bari Airport. 

Depending on your arrival time, there may be time to wander around this quaint town.

If you are travelling with your Women’s Fitness Adventures CREW leader OR arriving into Bari Airport around the same time, a private bus takes us to our hotel 

Tonight we gather round to talk about the week ahead, have our briefing and enjoy a special Welcome Dinner.

Accommodation: Alberobello – Hotel Twin Share

Meals:  Dinner

Alberobello with Women's Fitness Adventures

Saturday 6th June 2026
Alberobello Urban Hike 

Today we explore Alberobello on foot, wandering between the famous limestone Trulli and through quiet lanes.

We have the option of an 8 km or 14 km loop; both have minimal elevation (80–120 m).

Accommodation: Hotel Twin Share

Hiking Distance: 8–14 km;

Elevation: 80–120 m ascent

Meals: Breakfast| Dinner

Note regardless of hiking time, we are out all day.

Alberobello on the Women's Fitness Adventures Urban Hike

Sunday 7th June 2026

Monopoli – Polignano Al Mare

After breakfast, a short transfer takes us to Monopoli where we begin a coastal hike to Polignano a Mare.

The trail hugs the cliffs and visits the old town and the famous Baia dei Saraceni.

Hiking Distance: approx 9.5 km

Elevation: 80 m 

Accommodation: Hotel Twin Share

Meals:Breakfast| Dinner

Note regardless of hiking time, we are out all day.

Polignano Al Mare hiking with Women's Fitness Adventures

Monday 8th June 2026
Locorotondo countryside hike

After breakfast at the hotel we transfer to the hill‑top village of Locorotondo where we take some time to wander its charming streets before hiking back through vineyards and olive groves to Alberobello.

Our walking & hiking distance today is about 16 km with a total of 250 m ascent.

Accommodation: Hotel – Twin Share

Hiking Distance: Approx 16km

Elevation: approx 250m

Meals: Breakfast|Dinner

Note regardless of hiking time, we are out all day.

Locorotondo with Women's Fitness Adventures

Tuesday 9th June 2026

 

Cisternino to Ostuni on the Cammino Materano

Today our bus takes us to the town of Ostuni – also  known as “The White Town”.

We start by strolling its labyrinthine backstreets before hitting the Cammino Materano for a rural hike back towards Cisternino.

Along the way we pass traditional masserie (farmhouses) and dirt paths through the countryside.

Distance approx:18 km 

Elevation: approx 300 m ascent.

Accommodation: Hotel Twin Share

Meals: Breakfast|Dinner

Note regardless of hiking time, we are out all day.

Ostuni Old Town with Women's Fitness Adventures

Wednesday June 10 2026

Rest day in Alberobello

Today is yours to spend as you wish.

Perhaps start with a  leisurely breakfast and spend your time exploring the boutiques, cafés and museums of Alberobello. 

Exploring Alberobello is largely about soaking up it’s atmosphere.

Accommodation:Hotel -Twin Share

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Rest day in Alberobello with Women's Fitness Adventures

Thursday 11th June 2026
Alberobello to Matera via Murgia Park

 

Today we say goodbye to Alberobello and depart for Matera. A new location and new accommodation.

En route we hike through the Murgia Materana – a wild plateau dotted with rupestrian churches – and arrive at the famous Sassi di Matera.

Here we have a guided tour of the Sassi and Matera. These are two ancient districts – the Sasso Caveso and the Sasson Barisano-  famous for their cave dwellings, carved into the soft limestone hills. 

Hiking Distance: approx 7km

Elevation: approx 300 m ascent.

Accommodation:Hotel Twin Share

Meals:Breakfast| Dinner

Note regardless of hiking time, we are out all day.

Matera with Women's Fitness Adventures

Friday 12th June 2026

Matera caves & canyons

Today is our final hiking day and we spend it exploring Matera’s caves, canyons and footpaths.

This unique urban hike  offers endless photo opportunities and a deeper understanding of Matera’s history.

Tonight we celebrate our Italian journey with our Traditional Awards & Celebration Dinner .

Accommodation: Hotel Twin Share

Hiking Distance: approx 10 km

Elevation:  200 m ascent 

Meals: Breakfast| Celebration & Awards Dinner

Note regardless of hiking time, we are out all day.

Sasson Barisano with Women's Fitness Adventures

Saturday 13th June 2026

Departure day
After a week of immersion in the sights, tastes and sounds of Puglia, we transfer to Bari Airport for onward travel. 

Meals: Breakfast

Bari, Italy on the Women's Fitness Adventures Hiking holiday

Here's What You Get

On our Coast to Caves Puglia Italian Fitness Adventure all our accommodation supports local businesses. And the hotels are CENTRALLY located, being walking distance to the village.

Staying twin share in comfortable hotels, giving you the opportunity to rest, relax and recharge after a days hiking.

We only change accommodation TWICE on this adventure – 6 nights in one location and two in another.

Note: Single supplement (as in you want your own room) may be available upon request subject to availability. There is no extra charge if you book on your own and share a room.

It’s Italy – the food is awesome.

From arrival in Alorobello and every day in between, the food is fantastic.

Breakfasts are in the hotels and dinner is at a local restaurant.  Snacks and lunches are up to you.

Our Traditional Celebration and Awards Dinner is held at a fabulous location on our final night. A perfect way to recognise achievement and end the adventure.

7 breakfasts, 8 dinners

Please note that YOU are responsible for any dietary allergies and intolerances on this adventure. Italy is known for pasta and bread.

All transfers that form part of the adventure are included.

If you are travelling with the Women’s Fitness Adventures Leader, your transfer from Bari airport to the hotel and return is included.

All of our transfers are private and occur in Commercially Operated and Transport Department Approved Vehicles.

Your experienced Women’s Fitness Adventures C.R.E.W. Leader is with you all the way.

From the moment you meet at the hotel in Alberobello,  (or if you are travelling there together) until the time you leave she will be your ultimate fan and support.

Your C.R.E.W Leader is fully trained in Remote Area First Aid and is your first point of call once you are on the adventure.

Within a few weeks of your booking being confirmed, you will have access to your Gear and Packing list.

By sticking to the list, you will be well prepared for Coast to Caves Puglia Italian Fitness Adventure.

Each day you will be required to carry your own day pack.

If you are new to adventures and do not have the gear, we recommend you watch the Masterclasses on topics such as boots, backpacks and raincoats.

Additionally, make contact with us via the Facebook Group or by contacting the office.

Your membership gives you access to a discount with our Adventure Store partner based in Brisbane. This generous discount is available for use in store, online or over the phone – so can be accessed wherever you live.

Your C.R.E.W Leaders are carrying Emergency Communications Equipment and a group first aid kit.

Our Coast to Caves Puglia Italian Fitness Adventure comes complete with its very own private Facebook Group.

This is designed specifically for maximum interaction and communication to ensure you never miss a moment in the lead up.

Additionally there is an online meeting designed to bring the group together, check in on your training and provide any updates.

Here's Why You'll Love This...

Safety is our number one priority.

Your Women’s Fitness Adventures Leader is fully trained in Remote Area First Aid and holds current CPR Qualifications.

In addition, we carry a group first aid kit and emergency communications equipment

In the event of extreme weather conditions or conditions beyond our control, the adventure may vary from the itinerary. Please be aware of this and accept this as part of the adventure. Your personal safety is our highest priority.

Your C.R.E.W Leader is supported by a Local Italian Hiking Guide – ensuring we come away with a greater understanding of this magical and UNESCO listed region.

Your C.R.E.W Leader brings with her extensive knowledge in training women for multi day hikes.

From the moment you book on to the Coast to Caves Puglia Italian Fitness Adventure, you will begin to make new friends.

Our adventurers tell us that they love the opportunities of meeting others before the adventure in the Closed Facebook Group or in person at training.

Many of our members have gone on to become great friends. You can read some of the friendship stories by clicking here.

Our multi day hikes are transformational. Some kind of “magic” happens with the group.

Here is what our members had to say…

” For me the highlight was participating! I had been longing to do a multi day hike since joining Women’s Fitness Adventures 2 years ago. I jumped at the opportunity to take a risk and commit. Being physically able to complete the walk without too much difficulty was also a highlight. Having never done back to back walks I wasn’t sure if my legs would co-operate with my heart and mind! It just shows what can happen when you put one foot in front of the other and begin. Peta, 

And on our adventures in general…

Thank you very much for a great weekend. I was anxious that I would not be up to the challenge but with the help of everyone’s support and confidence I was able to complete it. I also enjoyed the great camaraderie between all of us. Hoping I will see everyone on another Women’s Fitness Adventure one day. Carol

This is a MODERATE multi day adventure.

The majority of our urban walks and hikes are on flat terrain, however we are in the early days of Summer in Europe, so there may be above average temperatures, which always has an impact on how you hike.

MODERATE level of fitness is required.

What this means is:

  • There are consecutive days hiking where we are out “all day”, so having a good level of endurance (the ability to be out hiking all day) is necessary
  • The hiking consists of undulating hills and paths that are old and possibly uneven underfoot. You need good balance & stability.
  • A good level of cardio fitness is required – so being able to recover your breath after hiking hills; hiking up hills / stairs without stopping.
  • Strength in your legs is required so that you can handle the distance over time.
  • You will need to keep an average pace of 4km/hour over each and every day for the duration of the hikes.

Moderate Fitness Grading

The Coast to Caves Puglia Italian Fitness Adventure is graded MODERATE.

The hiking is moderate with daily hikes ranging from 7-16km

The terrain is undulating and it continually is either ascending or descending.

One of the most common asked questions is “Will I be fit enough?”

As soon as you book into the Coast to Caves Puglia Italian Fitness Adventure you can get started with training.

Through booking into the adventure early and allowing time to train, those with a current introductory plus level of fitness will find this an achievable goal – provided you put in the training.

Here’s what you get:

  • A Three MONTH hike training plan relevant to your adventure.
  • A structured ONLINE Adventure Meeting that covers fitness motivation, gear & equipment, logistics and more. AND introduces you to the rest of the group.
  • Access to the closed Coast to Caves Puglia Italian  Fitness Adventure Facebook Group – which provides your fitness accountability.

Your ONLINE training program has been developed by Women’s Fitness Adventures, based on years of experience and qualifications in both the fitness industry and hiking in the outdoors.

By following (that is “doing”) our training programs and actively moving “toward” your adventure you will become Adventure Ready.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

You will be required to carry a day pack of approximately 5 – 7kg.

Your pack will include the following items: minimum of 2 litres water, sunscreen, warm top/light jacket, lunch, camera, hat and any items of a personal nature, including personal first aid/medications.

A comprehensive gear list will be supplied and explained once your booking is confirmed.

 

This adventure is graded as MODERATE. Please use this table as a guide and contact us if you have any questions regarding your current or future fitness level. We are here to help!!

Moderate Fitness Grading

If you are unsure as to your current fitness level please use this handy resource: How to find your hiking fitness level

It is important to come along with an open mind ready for an awesome experience whatever the weather, whoever the group. It is very important you bring the right gear for the conditions.

Italy and Europe in early Summer has been heating up and can be warmer than expected.  “Average” temperatures in the region vary from 18-28 degrees celcius.

In the event of extreme weather conditions, the adventure may vary from the itinerary. Please be aware of this and accept this as part of the adventure.

Your personal safety is our highest priority.

The following items are INCLUDED as part of the adventure

  • All transfers that form part of the daily activities whilst on the adventure
  • 8 breakfasts, 8 dinners
  • Nightly accommodation – twin share in hotel style accommodation
  • One Women’s Fitness Adventures C.R.E.W Leader
  • One Local Italian Hiking Guide
  • All necessary permits and licences
  • Public Liability Insurance
  • Comprehensive First Aid kit and emergency communications equipment
  • Hike Training Plan

The following items are NOT INCLUDED as part of the adventure

  • Tips and gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Transfers other than specified
  • Alcohol
  • Airfares to the start of the adventure in Italy.
  • Souvenirs, gifts
  • Meals & food not specified on the itinerary
  • Entrance fees unless specified

The Coast to Caves Puglia Italian Fitness Adventure

5 – 13 June 2026

A Quick Guide to Our Booking Terms and Conditions

We’re thrilled you’re considering joining us for the Coast to Caves Puglia Italian Fitness Adventure. Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect when you book:

Payments: Start your adventure with us by securing your spot with a 35% non-refundable payment. We’ll provide the specific payment deadlines below for your convenience.

Cancellation Policy: Life happens, and we understand. If you need to cancel, just let us know in writing. Below you’ll find important dates and the associated cancellation fees.

  • Travel Insurance: To ensure everyone has peace of mind, travel insurance is required shortly after your booking—within five days. Your policy should cover everything from medical emergencies to trip cancellations.

  • Itinerary Changes: Adventures are full of surprises! Sometimes, external factors may necessitate itinerary changes. While we can’t offer refunds for these changes, we strive to ensure every adventure is as amazing as planned.

  • If you have specific dietary requirements (including dairy-free, gluten-free, or vegan), please inform us prior to booking, as additional charges may apply based on requirements from our suppliers. We’ll do our best to accommodate your needs, but some requests may require prior discussion and approval.

Once you make your first payment, we’ll send you a document with all the details of these terms. Please read it carefully, sign via JotForm, and return it to us to confirm your spot.

For all the details and to read our full terms, please read the pdf for this adventure

We can’t wait to have you on this adventure!

Our fabulous adventures allow you to create memories and friendships that last a lifetime. At Women’s Fitness Adventures we are also committed to sustainable adventures so that the places and spaces we go will also last well beyond our lifetime and the many generations to follow. Sustainability starts when you join our community and never ends.

We are committed to the principles of minimal impact, leave no trace, tread lightly  and give back to the local community. Here’s how we do that for all of our adventures (short and long)

Consumables

  • We encourage “no plastics” so bringing refillable water bottles, reusable cups and cutlery where applicable and using lunchboxes where plastic can be minimised
  • It’s a leave no trace principle, so all food scraps, toilet waste and rubbish items are carried out. (See our Masterclass on Toileting for the Trail)
  • We are committed to reducing paper waste inside our organisation and have implemented a paperless booking system.

Transport

  • For this adventure, once in country, we use either foot or public transport as our mode of movement.
  • When flying, we encourage you to offset your emissions by purchasing carbon offsets.

Minimal impact

  • We have a “tread lightly” policy where we stay on known tracks and paths, minimising our impact to bush, plants and wildlife.
  • Before we embark on an adventure or trail, we brief you on the flora, fauna and any other considerations that form the uniqueness of the environment so that you understand and appreciate the minimal impact approach.

Accommodation & Adventure Partners

  • Where possible we partner with Eco Certified businesses who follow the same eco philosophies
  • Our adventures have all the applicable National Park permits and licenses to operate (or International equivalents)
  • Our “give back” policy also applies to the locations we stay – choosing local operators, businesses and townships where funds spent go directly to small business owners – doing our part to create sustainable communities.

Testimonials

Merlene has been part of many Women’s Fitness Adventures hiking holidays and was a Founding Member back in 2014.

Hear her talk about the hikes in general.

Merlene

“What’s the best thing about a Women’s Fitness Adventure? Where to start… In hindsight the highlight was definitely the company and fun times with the other women. Support and laughs along the trails and the hilarity of the dinners”

Sharon

$7,499.00

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