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An Undiscovered Gem
October 22-30, 2005
Designed as a themed, quick getaway, this "delightful jaunt for those pressed for time" is an excellent occasion for discovery, touring Italy's seldom-visited southeast peninsula. Casual and unregimented, this one-of-a-kind itinerary - custom-designed and exclusively available through INTRAV - has an intimate ambience that invites camaraderie. Although as fascinating as upper Italy, the beautiful region of Apulia - with its sunny, mild climate - is entirely different and much less explored than its northern counterpart. Join us for an experience like no other exploring Italy's Apulia - An Undiscovered Gem!
DAY 1 Depart U.S.A.
DAY 2 Bari, Italy (Northern Apulia)
Upon arrival in Italy, transfer to the Hotel Villa Romanazzi Carducci Bari - set within walking distance of the historic city center. For the next three nights, acquaint yourself with northern Apulia while enjoying the amenities of this first-class property.
A museum of the ages, Bari - once the Byzantine Empire's Italian capital - also prospered greatly during the Middle Ages as a port of embarkation for the Crusades. Following lunch, a fascinating walk through old town begins at San Nicola Basilica - a fine example of Romanesque architecture dating from the 12th century. Then continue to the inner courtyard of a 13th-century castle built by Frederick II of Hohenstaufen, where you'll ascend one of two fortification towers for remarkable views.
A reception and dinner officially welcomes you to Apulia tonight.
DAY 3 Bari (for Castle del Monte)
During a fullday excursion along northern Apulia's Adriatic shores, explore coastal villages such as colorful Bisceglie, with its busy harbor and numerous fishing boats; and Trani, famous for its castle and cathedral. Enjoy a hearty lunch before visiting the 12th-century duomo in nearby Barletta. Then venture inland to the mysterious, octagonal Castle del Monte - a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1240. Standing atop the Murge Hills, this solitary fortress successfully blends strict architectural planning, balance, and logic with delicate decoration.
DAY 4 Bari (for Alberobello & Trulli Region)
Today, travel southward through Trulli - named for the unique whitewashed cone buildings found only here in Apulia. Marvel at the peculiar beehive-like, dry-lime-stone structures that abundantly dot the scenic countryside. The distinctive round shape, with conical roof, is like nothing ever seen - and, no two trulli are alike, each is built individually by hand.
Next, stop in the small town of Alberobello - another of Apulia's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and one of the best places to view trulli up close. Visit Alberobello's St. Anthony Church, designed and built in true trulli fashion. Perhaps, after today's excursion, you can discern for yourself the reasons behind this enigmatic architectural style. During lunch at a nearby trattoria, dine on spicy "orecchiette" pasta for a bit of local flavor.
DAY 5 Lecce, Italy (Southern Apulia)
Make a scenic overland journey today to the Castellana Caves - just 25 miles southeast of Bari. Only discovered in 1938, this vast network of grottoes - created by underground rivers - showcases the awesome splendor of nature. Sparkling calcite crystals reflect off the deep, white cave's bizarre natural "draperies," comprised of richly colored stalactites and stalagmites - a truly unforgettable image!
After this morning's speleological explorations, stop at a quaint countryside restaurant for a lunch of local specialties. Then continue your trek down the bootheel of Italy toward Lecce, at the heart of southern Apulia. Upon arrival, transfer to the distinctive Hotel Albergo delle Palme - your home-away-from-home for the next four nights.
DAY 6 Lecce
At the very core of Apulia's Salento plain, historic Lecce dates back to Roman times. Your morning tour, however, focuses on a more "modern" theme - "Baroque Leccese." A result of great prosperity and splendor in the 16th to 18th centuries, this regal architecture dominates Lecce's beautiful cityscape. Stroll among the many rococo and baroque monuments that dramatically reflect this ornate decorative style. First tour the lovely Basilica of the Holy Cross, then explore one of Italy's finest squares - Piazza Duomo. Next, you'll be treated to another delicious Italian specialty, cappuccino. For those who wish, lunch and dinner are served at the hotel, but you may choose to remain in town on your own for a taste of local culture and fare.
DAY 7 Lecce (for Salento Peninsula & Gallipoli)
Today's excursion takes you through outlying hills and valleys, past sprawling olive-tree orchards and lush vineyards to the port city of Gallipoli - set in a beautiful region, nestled along the Ionian Sea. Meander through the attractive harbor area of Gallipoli's old town, connected to Italy's mainland by a small bridge. Then stop at historic Angevine Castle and the Church of St. Teresa, renowned for its intricate interior. Next, continue to the town's exquisite Hellenistic fountain, capped off by an impressive baroque pediment. Enjoy lunch in this panoramic seaside setting.
DAY 8 Lecce (for Otranto & Santa Maria di Leuca)
Another highlight of southern Apulia is the classic town of Otranto, which you'll visit today during a full-day excursion along the Adriatic's rugged, indented coastline. First, stop at Otranto's 15th-century castle with its massive cylindrical towers, perched high atop a cliffside overlooking the glistening sea and old town below. Then stroll past the cathedral for a look at its magnificent 12th-century mosaic floor. Marked by rich, vibrant colors and extraordinarily expressive figures, this stunning masterpiece is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Next, journey on to the very tip of Italy's bootheel - Santa Maria di Leuca, where you'll delight in lunch while overlooking the point where the turquoise waters of the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet.
Tonight, say ciao to Apulia - this newly discovered gem of Italy - at a farewell reception and dinner.
DAY 9 Return to U.S.A.
Following breakfast, transfer to the airport in nearby Brindisi for your return flight to the United States.
IMPORTANT
This is merely an announcement of the tour program of the Commonwealth Club of California. Please refer to individual tour folders/agencies for specific itineraries, tour inclusions, exclusions and responsibilities. It shall be the responsibility of the tour participant to ascertain directly with the vendor agency of each program what the exact requirements, payment due dates and fees pertaining to each program are. A Commonwealth Club representative accompanies each tour to enhance the study tour aspects and to represent the Club on the tour. The Club reserves the right to cancel the tour and/or not provide a Club representative if the number of participants falls below the number sufficient for a Club-sponsored tour.
All tour prices are per person, double occupancy and airfare, when included, is from San Francisco unless otherwise noted; all travel dates and tour costs are subjected to change. Included in all tour prices is a modest charge to cover the Commonwealth Club's costs of administering a membership tour program. All dates and tour costs are subject to changes at any time. Tour participants must be members of the Commonwealth Club of California or belong to their immediate family.
If you wish to receive more information on our
2005 Tour Program, please contact The Club's travel desk at (415) 597-6720 or email the Club Tour Desk
with the following information:
-Your Name
-Address
-Home Phone
-Tour Name/s
