Discover untouched Puglia by bicycle

Puglia the heel of the great boot of Italy is still largely untouched by mass tourism. However, tourists keen to discover the region will be pleased to learn that Essential Italy is offering bike hire, enabling travellers to explore the area's beautiful countryside.

Olive groves, vineyards and ancient trulli surround the country lanes and cycling is the perfect way to enjoy Puglia's riches. Bicycles are delivered to and collected from Essential Italy's holiday accommodation, making the hire process totally hassle free.

Rental rates are for 5 days and include helmets, security locks and a pre-hire bike safety check with bike adjustments as required. Adult bikes cost just Euros 45, children's bikes Euros 30, with tag along trailers and child seats available from Euros 12.

There is still good summer availability at the following two properties, with of course other accommodation choices also available through Essential Italy.

Villa San Michele, (sleeps 8): 
This Masseria with 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms sits in an impressive five acres of land with the grounds planted with indigenous trees providing wonderful harvests of almonds, olives, walnuts, mulberries, figs and lemons. The swimming pool is approximately 40 meters from the house along with sunbeds and an external shower – the perfect place to while away the day in the warm Pugliese sunshine. Hidden in the extensive grounds is a large natural limestone grotto, which is an impressive 52 metres deep.

Price: Summer rate: £4270 per week
Location: nearest beach 'Diana Marina' 21kms, Ostuni 11kms, Martina Franca 19km, Alberbello 34km, Bari airport 94kms, Brindisi airport 42kms

Masseria Guarino:
Many old masseria have been converted into apartments but few to the standard of Masseria Guarino - these trulli maintain many of the local features and yet have a contemporary feel and modern comforts. The lovely pool makes Masseria Guarino an ideal place to relax and the location a perfect place from where to explore this fascinating area of Puglia.

Each of the four apartments (sleeping from 2 - 4 people) has its own private terrace and offer great value for families, friends and couples.

Price: £495 - £710 for an apartment sleeping 2, £550 - £810 for an apartment sleeping 4
Location: Alberobello 7kms, Martina Franca 8kms, Cisternino 10kms, Ostuni 20kms, Bari 70kms, Brindisi 60kms

For more information and bookings, visit: essentialitaly.co.uk