BARI, ITALY

After departing the pier we will have a short panoramic drive of Bari, before we begin our journey past rich vineyards, olive and almond trees, and typical country houses (‘Caselles’) which are scattered amongst the countryside.

After departing the pier we will have a short panoramic drive of Bari, before we begin our journey past rich vineyards, olive and almond trees, and typical country houses (‘Caselles’) which are scattered amongst the countryside. A stop is made as a farm, where we will have the opportunity to sample some local produce of taralli (a type of bread stick) and olives, before our tour continues. As the road we travel along smoothly climbs a hill, we will see Castel Del Monte towering above a seemingly endless number of live trees, overlooking the plain. The castle dates back to 1240 AD, when it was the residence of Frederick II from Svevia. After Fredrick’s death, it was used as a prison and then fell slowly into great disrepair and was stripped of its marble and sculptures. Recovered by the state in 1876, restoration initiatives were commenced and today it is considered to be of the most significant examples of medieval military architecture.

Please be advised that the stop at the local farm is subject to change. This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking; uneven, hilly ground and steps can be expected, particularly at Castel Del Monte therefore this tour is not recommended for passengers with limited mobility.