The Vespa Trip Magazine 2024 (EN) by Travelbase.eu

SUMMER 2024

Drive along the sunny roads of the Amalfi Coast

Discover Tuscany and its magical landscapes

Discover authentic Puglia, Italy's hidden treasure.

Voyages Laponie

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PREFACE

Explore Italy all from your own Vespa

Dear ‘soon to be’ Vespa Tripper!

In this brochure, I'll show you what your Vespa trip will look like, and introduce you to the the different destinations and routes you can discover this season. All bookings for this adventure are made online via www.thevespatrip.com. I could write hundreds of pages about the beauty of Italy... but I will try to keep it short in this brochure. As you may have guessed, in my opinion the best way to discover these beautiful regions is by riding an authentic Vespa!

After several editions of The Vespa Trip, I dare to call myself a specialist in the organization of trips in La Bella Italia. Our offer is the best on the market in terms of price/quality - but you can be the judge of that! You are about to discover why in the following pages of this booklet. Enjoy reading - I remain at your disposal for further questions!

Ciao, Ansita

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INDEX

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THE VESPA TRIP

TUSCANY

AMALFI COAST

6. Italy in short

10. Your Vespa Trip

31. Your Vespa Trip

7. The ultimate roadtrip

17. The routes

39. The routes

9. Four destinations

27. The hotels

48. The hotel

29. How to get there?

49. How to get there?

PUGLIA

THE ROADTRIP IN DETAIL

53. Your Vespa Trip

74. The Vespa

60. The routes

75. What's included?

69. The hotel

76. The options

70. How to get there?

79. The Vespa Trippers

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La Bella Italia Italy, the country of pizza, pasta and

In the north of the country lie the Alps, a

endless flowing wine. The country where

mountainous region bordering Austria,

food lovers, beach lovers, nature lovers and

France and Switzerland. The Alps are an

city-trippers can enjoy themselves to the

impressive piece of nature that you will

fullest. Italy is known for its charming

never tire of and is the ideal vacation

cities, enchanting landscapes, welcoming

destination for avid cyclists, hikers and

locals and much more!

winter sports enthusiasts.

This is not the only reason why this country

Rather a less active holiday?

attracts many tourists every year. Another

With a total coastline of approximately

reason is its rich history. The Romans first

7,500 km, there are enough beaches in

conquered Italy from the city of Rome and

Italy for everyone to enjoy. The total land

then formed an empire that stretched

area is 300.000 km2, which is 10 times the

from England to Syria and from Romania

size of Belgium. Italy has about 60 million

to Morocco; an area larger than today's

inhabitants,

European Union!

Italian and the currency is the Euro.

Italy is a boot-shaped country located in southern

Europe,

with

many

islands

including the most famous: Sicily and Sardinia.

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the

national

language

THE VESPA TRIP? Want to escape from your routine and experience a real adventure? Then The Vespa Trip is a wonderful way to discover the

landscapes,

historic

towns

and

gastronomy of Italy, in a relatively short time. The

choice

combining

yours!

bucolic

Explore

Tuscany

landscapes

and

historical cities, discover the Amalfi coast, its impressive cliffs and turquoise water, or experience the carefree southern Italian lifestyle in Puglia Every day, you drive your Vespa on the most

beautiful

roads

wherever you want.

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and

you

stop

You are the one who decides of the course of your trip. With the help of your roadbook, you choose your pace and your stops. In Italy, you just need to have your driver or motorcycle license to drive the Vespa. Never driven a scooter ? Then take our "Start to Vespa" driving course with our english speaking guides. They will explain you in detail how to handle the scooter and how to drive on the Italian roads.

TUSCANY AMALFI COAST

The

Vespa

Trip

2024

takes

PUGLIA

you

Discover the different regions and

through 3 different regions: Tuscany,

what they have to offer! Just know

the Amalfi Coast and Puglia. Each tour

that

has its own unique characteristics,

embark on a wonderful road trip.

making it difficult to choose.

Discover

whatever for

destinations !

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your

yourself

choice, our

you'll

dreamy

Tuscany

Tuscany at a glance

The beautiful landscapes and the typical Italian cypress trees : that's how we all see when we think of Tuscany. Add to this a big variety of vineyards, medieval towns, art and culture,

and

you'll

get

why

Tuscany

undoubtedly the most famous region in Italy. Tuscany has something for everyone. For 'Vespisti',

Tuscany

offers

numerous

hills,

gourmets enjoy the delicious gastronomy in the small osterias, and artists, photographers, poets and writers also get their money's worth here with the large concentration of art, history and culture the city has to offer. Florence, Lucca, Siena and Pisa will most likely ring a bell. These cities are all located in Tuscany. You cannot say you have really seen Tuscany if you have not visited at least one of these cities. A short walk will immediately make you feel the charm and magic of these cities!

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Vineyards One of the most important wine regions in Italy is located in Tuscany: the Chianti region. The wine produced here, the ‘Chianti Classico’, enjoys worldwide fame. With, among others, the Sangiovese grapes that are used for this, the region has many beautiful grape varieties and wines. Besides the famous Chianti wine region, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Carmignano and Bolgheri are also very well-known wine regions. Tuscany has many premium quality wines due to a very specific soil structure and an ideal climate

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All their wines are mainly made from blue grapes. There are 11 DOCG wines and no less than 40 DOC wines in the area. Tuscany has several wine routes that you can follow. We'll take you to Chianti where, if you wish, you can participate in a wine tasting at an authentic farm.

Sloping landscapes Surrounded by the typical rolling hills with cypress trees, a pleasant climate and fertile valleys with rich vegetation, Tuscany is a destination you will not easily forget. It is one of the most idyllic rural places you will ever visit. The sun slowly dissolves the morning mist here, creating an enchanting effect. Tuscany is undoubtedly linked with cypress trees. Just try to take a picture without one in the background...it’s pretty much impossible ! You can easily recognise the tree by its atypical shape.

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Lapland Travel

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Medieval towns You can stroll for hours on your Vespa through the medieval towns full of history. The best-known historic cities are Florence, Siena, Lucca and Pisa. But perhaps San Gimignano also rings a bell. The atmosphere of the Middle Ages is still tangible here. The symbol of this town are the 14 medieval towers that are still standing. These were built to defend the city against the ennemies. It also allowed the rich families to show the outside world their privileged position and power. In 1990, the centre of San Gimignano was even recognised as a Unesco World Heritage site because of its architecture and historical framework.

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The routes Il Giro Classico starts and ends in Pisa, the stages are between 70 and 120 km each. You can choose to drive on your own (using your roadmap & GPS), or follow our guide to have a completely carefree drive.

PISA - SIENA 114 KM This route takes you to one of the most beautiful skylines in the world, San Gimignano. The route features rural and authentic winding roads that adorn the Tuscan landscape so beautifully. You'll get to enjoy an incredible lunch in one of the cute restaurants in the area, s and continue the trip to beautiful Siena with a very happy belly.

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SIENA - FLORENCE 93 KM You will discover the famous wine route that takes you on curvy roads past vast vineyards and introduces you to a lot of wineries of the Chianti.

FLORENCE - LUCCA 107 KM This route seems made for Vespas, there is no other way of following it ! The roads are too narrow for cars. This itinerary will make you discover the birthplace of Leonardo Da Vinci.

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LUCCA - PISA 114 KM If you prefer a day of rest, you can choose to spend a day on the beach. You end your f by driving back to Pisa (25 km). If you just can't get enough of the Vespa and the culture, you can make a detour to the beautiful historical village of Montefegatesi. After 95 km, you end up in Pisa again.

Your Vespa Trip Tuscany

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Program of the week PISA

On the first day (Monday) you are welcome at the hotel in the afternoon (3 PM). You can check into your hotel room and get a brief explanation from the Vespa Trip guides. Afterwards you are free to explore the city. In the evening you will be invited by your guide to have a drink together with all the Vespa Trippers in one of the nicest bars in Pisa.

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If you have never ridden a Vespa before, a Start-to-Vespa course is highly recommended. This course is given by our Vespa Trip guides. They will teach you how to drive this elegant scooter through the Italian countryside.

PISA - SIENA

The Vespa Trip really begins on day 2. You'll leave the busy and touristy Pisa almost immediately for rural and authentic winding roads that adorn the Tuscan landscape so beautifully. The first stop of The Vespa Trip is in Pontedera, the birthplace of the Vespa. Here the factory that produces the Vespas (Piaggio) has its home base. You can visit the Vespa museum for free. This is where you’ll also find the most colourful and historical models. Definitely worth a visit!

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From Pontedera, head for the Tuscan town with one of the most beautiful skylines in the world, San Gimignano. Just before you reach this town, you can stop to take in the view of the town and snap some pictures. You can also have a delicious lunch here before heading to your final destination for the day, the beautiful city of Siena.

SIENA-FLORENCE

The third day of your trip is an absolute highlight. You drive right through the famous Chianti region, visiting numerous picturesque villages along the way. You leave the city of Siena and enter the Chianti region. On the agenda : endless vineyards and rolling landscapes. That's it. You will probably notice some imposing castles along the way before arriving at the official capital of the Chianti region: Radda in Chianti.

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You can stop here and then head for another gem of the Chianti region, Greve in Chianti! This is the unofficial capital of the Chianti region. Greve in Chianti has an impressive central square and many authentic shops such as the Macelleria Falorni (perhaps the oldest butcher shop in the world). On the way to Florence, you pass the historical village of Montefioralle and then, via Piazza Michelangelo, you arrive in one of the most beautiful cities in the world!

FLORENCE - LUCCA

This morning you will have some time in the morning to explore the beautiful city of Florence. Because this particular leg of the trip is a bit shorter than the others, you can easily leave for Lucca in the afternoon. You leave Florence via the winding roads on the Florentine hills which offer impressive views on the Tuscan landscapes. The roads are just too narrow to pass by car.

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A few dozen kilometres further on, you can stop at a lake where you can relax for a while and then head back to the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci. From Vinci you can drive straight on to the favourite city of many Italian connoisseurs: Lucca.

LUCCA - SIENA

During this fifth and last day on the Vespa you have two choices. You can either spend the day at the beach and only ride a small number of kilometers on the Vespa. Or you can make another beautiful loop via the Bagni di Lucca and a historical village that is completely closed off from the outside world: Montefegatesi. During the route to Montefegatesi you follow the river Lima and you can take a swim in a very special & secluded place.

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The spot is not indicated on the map and you can only find it via the GPS coordinates that we provide you. The day ends as usual in Pisa where you can spend a last evening in this beautiful city. Time to say goodbye to your new two-wheeled best friend and to end this amazing adventure.

PISA

On the sixth day, you can still have a quiet breakfast at the hotel, but after this, unfortunately, the trip is over. You can choose to travel a little more in Italy by yourself or return home, the head full of beautiful memories.

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The hotels We have selected hotels for you that are the perfect stops to relax on your road trip through Tuscany.

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La Pace Voted the hotel with the best breakfast in all of Pisa, the hotel La Pace certainly cannot disappoint! It is a 3* hotel next to the centre and the railway station of Pisa. When entering the hotel, you immediately feel like being in the old authentic Italy of the 70's.

PISA

Siena

SIENA

Depending on which period you travel to Tuscany, you will stay in a different hotel. Each hotel will give you a warm welcome. The hotels are located just a short walk from the center of Siena. Breakfast is served daily with local products.

Camplus At the Camplus, you get a modern room where you can rest perfectly after a whole day of exploring. In addition, the hotel has communal facilities. FLORENCE

Carignano

LUCCA

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This hotel, situated in the peaceful countryside of Lucca, is the perfect ending to your trip. The hotel is ideally located, surrounded by fruit trees, vineyards and olive groves. It also has air conditioning, a traditional restaurant and a swimming pool overlooking the hills.

How to get there?

The best way to travel to Italy for your Tuscany trip is by flying to Pisa International Airport (PSA). You can find more information about the flights on our website. The airport of Pisa is situated quite close to the hotel where you start your Vespa Trip, so no shuttles are provided. From the airport there are 3 different ways to get to the hotel:

You can take the PISAMOVER, an electric metro that will take you to the Pisa train station in 5 minutes, and from there, the hotel is only a 2 minute walk. A ticket costs €5 per person and can be bought on site from a ticket machine. This mini metro leaves every 5 to 15 minutes. You can also take a taxi from the airport to the hotel. You’ll pay a maximum of € 20 and this will take you about 10 minutes. Since the airport is only 1.7 km from the hotel, you could even walk there. It will take you about 20 minutes.

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Did you know that... 1

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Your luggage will be taken from one hotel to another every day by the Vespa Trip guides? Tuscany has a volcanic island? And even more so, did you know that Napoleon spent a year here during his first exile? That’s right! It's called the island of Elba.

The tower of Pisa is not the only leaning tower? It is the most known, but the Campanile San Michele degli Scalzi and the Campanile of San Nicola (both also in Pisa) are at least as leaning. Tuscany is the region of origin for a plethora of sayings? Just think of the famous Pinocchio story, a delicious ‘gelato’, the well-known saying ‘all roads lead to Rome’ and even the Italian language! All of these have their origins in Tuscany. Seven monuments in Tuscany have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status? That is even more than Australia and South Africa put together! That San Gimingnano has the best ice cream in the world?

The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast at a glance The Amalfi Coast is a unique region located in the province of Salerno and the Campania region in Italy. These romantic villages are located south of the Gulf of Naples and are a popular holiday spot among Italians, but also among other foreign tourists. The Amalfi Coast has a wide variety of charming pastel-coloured villages that cosy up the mountainside, delicious Italian food, the necessary amount of ‘mundane’ hidden beaches, and so much more. Since 1996, this entire coast has been on UNESCO's World Heritage List because of its rich cultural history and rugged nature. In our eyes, this region is a real Italian dream spot, so let us take you on this Italian adventure!

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Lemons and limoncello Lemons grow in abundance from trees clinging to the cliffs of the spectacularly beautiful Amalfi Coast. These Amalfi lemons possess a unique sweetness that is the result of a combination of the volcanic soil, year-round warm temperatures and a perfect amount of rain.

In the kitchens (cucine) of every ristorante, trattoria or home along this divine coast, lemons are part of the life of the locals and are used for everything from cooking, to cleaning, to beauty treatments. As always, nothing is wasted in Italy. And of course, there is also an alcoholic drink brewed from these yellow fruits, limoncello! The story goes that fishermen and farmers used limoncello to keep themselves warm, which is why homemade limoncello's still contain a very high alcohol content.

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Mountainside villages Coastal villages seem to rise out of the sea and to be hewn from the rocks. The many houses in the villages have all kinds of bright colours that, together with the surrounding forests, form a true painting. All buildings are surrounded by terraces, vineyards and gardens. Lemons, olives, grapes and flowers fill the air with a divine smell. Narrow streets are covered with pebbles and of course there are a lot of stairs; endless stairs.

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From castle to hotel Along the jagged coastline you will see many rocky points with (ruins of) old castles and fortresses. There are quite a few of them, but there used to be many more. Many of these buildings have been bought up and turned into hotels. And what hotels they are ! They have the most beautiful sea views and are often built with the most luxurious materials. You often pay at least €1,000 for a night in one of these.

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Your Vespa Trip on the Amalfi Coast

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The routes The routes always start from the hotel O Sole Mio. You explore the area in a loop and return to the hotel. Each day you can choose to do the itinerary by yourself (with roadbook & GPS), or follow our guide. When you drive solo, you decide which route to take on which day. If you are riding in a group, you and the guide decide on the order of the routes for your week.

SANT'AGATA - POMPEII 75 KM On this first leg you will discover the north coast of the Amalfi Peninsula. During this route you will drive to the historical city of Pompeii which was completely destroyed by the Vesuvius volcano during the ancient times. From Pompeii it is only a few kilometres to the volcano that once destroyed this beautiful city. You drive uphill for a while but are rewarded with unparalleled views. The way back from the volcano is best travelled via the coastline back to the hotel.

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POSITANO, AMALFI & RAVELLO 65 KM On the second leg (65 km) of the trip you will discover the gems on the south coast of the peninsula: Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. This road has been proclaimed the most beautiful road in Europe several times. You stop in the various picturesque mountain villages. Let yourself be enchanted by the colourful palettes that this stage has to offer.

MONTE FAITO & BAGNI REGINA GIOVANNA 70 KM During this day, you will move a little more inland and away from the traditional tourist trail. The final destination is one of the best-preserved gems in this region. Villaggio Monte Faito. It is a laid-back village where there are some people, but almost exclusively Italians. It gives a completely different feeling than the other villages along the coastline. The road goes up a bit and you pass many sleepy, but typical Italian, villages. A little further on, you get a beautiful view of the Vesuvio and Napoli. The way back is via small lanes and a hidden swimming spot to Sorrento, one of the most beautiful towns of the Amalfi Coast.

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Program of the week ARRIVAL

O SOLE MIO

On your arrival day, you can choose the Early Pick-Up option, which will allow you to take your Vespa on a first spin and discover the region around your hotel. It's the perfect opportunity to get to know your scooter, the winding roads and the traffic on the Amalfi Coast a little better. Your guide will give you a little route to follow!

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You'll receive your Vespa the next morning (without the Early Pick-Up option) and that's the official start of your Vespa Trip! If you want to drive solo, you can decide which route you take on which day, there is no fixed order. When you follow the guide, he will determine the best order for your week in concertation with the group and based on the weather forecast.

ROUTE 1:

SANT'AGATA - POMPEII

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The first route takes you to Pompeii, the once-popular Roman city that (literally) rose from its ashes after centuries of darkness.

Being there feels as if you have been taken back in time and are walking in the same footsteps as the Romans did in the year 79.

The city was buried under a thick layer of ash and rubble in 79 AD, after the famous eruption of the volcano Vesuvius. After centuries of being buried under the ashes, excavations started in the 18th century and now you can

You can visit grand villas and admire the colourful frescos on the walls.

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ROUTE 2:

POSITANO - AMALFI - RAVELLO

You will immediately become acquainted with the famous Amalfi Coast. Within minutes of leaving the hotel, you will be able to enjoy the magnificent views of this worldfamous coastline. On the way, you will pass through the ideal village for a short stop: Positano. The many pastel-colored villas, the mountainside layout and its location on a beautiful pebble beach make this village extremely photogenic! After this short stop, continue to Amalfi, an unpretentious coastal village with a short seaside promenade and a beach lined with colorful umbrellas in symmetrical patterns. Here you can have lunch and visit the cathedral.

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In the afternoon, you will head to the mountain village of Ravello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its imposing villas with beautiful gardens. You can walk through the narrow streets, past small stores selling handmade ceramics. On the way back to the hotel, you can stop at several bays to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. Throughout the day, you are of course free to stop wherever you like. The possibilities are endless.

ROUTE 3:

MONTE FAITO

You drive straight inland to the highest point of the Amalfi Peninsula: Villaggio Monte Faito. A mountain village that offers you a breath-taking view of Sorrento, Naples and the Vesuvius volcano. It is a small village in the mountains, less known to tourists, where you get that typical Italian feeling. Enjoy an Italian espresso and let yourself be enchanted by the view. After that, you will head to Sorrento, a famous Italian seaside town with nice streets to walk, stores to explore, beaches to relax on and culinary specialties to taste such as 'Gnocchi alla Sorrentina'.

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This gnocchi recipe contains three of Campania's most famous ingredients: fresh, flavorful tomatoes, green basil and creamy mozzarella. It's the perfect combination of a hearty meal and the flavors of Italian summer. After a lunch break in the port of Sorrento, you can choose to walk around the town in the afternoon or drive another fifteen minutes to Bagni della Regina Giovanna. It is a natural seaside resort, hidden in a small cove completely surrounded by rocks, with the sea entering through a natural opening.

LAST DAY

CIAO BELLA

On the last day you can enjoy one more breakfast at the hotel. From now on, you decide whether you continue your trip through Italy or whether you return home. You can also choose the Late Drop-Off option and then you only have to return your Vespa at 2 PM on this day. Perfect for a final little ride !

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The hotel Centrally located in the green hills of the peninsula and a stone's throw from Sorrento, the 4-star Hotel O Sole Mio**** offers the perfect base. The centrally located hotel offers a delicious (included) breakfast, lunch and dinner. You sleep in comfortable rooms and have access to the beautiful garden with refreshing swimming pool. Close to the hotel, there are also many nice restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

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How to get there? The best way to travel to Italy for your Amalfi trip is by flying to Naples International Airport (NAP). You can find more information about the flights on our website. The airport of Naples is about 60 km away from the hotel where you stay during your Vespa Trip. There are different ways to get from the airport to the hotel: The first option is to book an airport - hotel or hotel - airport shuttle: via The Vespa Trip for € 30 p.p. Please note, these shuttles are only available on the first and last day of your Vespa Trip. Unfortunately it's not possible to book the shuttle on other dates. You'll find the shuttle schedule on our website. By taxi: From Naples airport to the hotel is about one hour by taxi. We recommend that you book a taxi at the hotel in advance, for around €90. If you take a taxi at the airport without making a reservation, you will easily pay between €150 and €200 for a single ride. By public transport: You can take the bus to Naples train station, where you take the train to Sorrento, and from there you can take a bus to the centre of Sant'Agata. The hotel is about five minutes' walk from the centre.

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Did you know that... 1

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The Vesuvius is still an active volcano? The last eruption dates back to 1944. The ‘Amalfi lemon’ is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)? It was awarded this title by the European Union and there are very strict conditions to obtain this label. The Faraglioni rocks often get featured in Dolce & Gabbana commercials? The Italian luxury brand likes to use this beautiful location near Capri to promote their perfumes.

Positano is known as the ‘vertical’ town? There are, in fact, more steps and stairs than roads there!

The Amalfi Coast attracts many celebrities? Some names that have already spent plenty of time here: Beyoncé, Mick Jagger, Vanessa Hudgens, Sophia Loren, Mark Zuckerberg and Kim Kardashian. .

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Puglia

Puglia at glance An authentic region in the south of Italy, Puglia forms the "heel" of the Italian boot. Nestled between the coastlines of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, it is beloved by both locals and travelers. Especially renowned for its white villages such as Ostuni and Cisternino, the iconic Trulli houses will also be a highlight on your route. Along the coast of Polignano a Mare, you'll discover

charming

fishing

villages,

idyllic

beaches, and breathtaking views over the azure blue sea. The region boasts a warm climate and is the ideal destination to enjoy a late summer. Immerse yourself in the relaxed lifestyle of Southern

Italy

and

experience

Mediterranean charm of the locals.

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the

Olive trees and olive oil Puglia hosts one of the largest concentrations of olive trees in the world. With over 50 million specimens, the region is a significant producer of olive oil. The extensive olive groves adorn the landscape and constitute an essential part of the local economy.

The olive oil produced here is also known as the 'gold of Puglia.' The oil is globally renowned for its excellent quality and is considered one of the best in Italy. The harvest is often a collective effort, with families and communities coming together to handpick the olives. The harvesting season primarily takes place in the fall. The harvested olives undergo cold pressing, enhancing the unique flavor. Apulian olive oil is an indispensable ingredient in the local cuisine of Southern Italy.

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Trulli On the routes, you'll pass by iconic landmarks such as the Trulli houses. Trulli are coneshaped cottages that are characteristic of Apulian architecture. They are mainly found in Alberobello and date back to the 19th century.

Today, many Trulli have been repurposed. Various cottages have been transformed into cozy accommodations, giving tourists the unique opportunity to stay overnight in these historic structures. Some Trulli have become charming shops where you can buy authentic local

products

handmade

souvenirs.

Moreover, there are Trulli that have been converted

into

atmospheric

restaurants

where you can savor Mediterranean cuisine. These houses are rightfully recognized as cultural heritage.

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Your Vespa Trip in Puglia

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The routes The routes always start from Masseria Don Sante, allowing you to explore the region in a loop and return to the hotel. Each day you can choose to do the itinerary by yourself (with roadbook & GPS), or follow our guide for a completely carefree experience. When you drive solo, you decide which route to take on which day. If you are riding in a group, you and the guide decide on the order of the routes for your week.

POLIGNANO A MARE MONOPOLI 87 KM On this first route, you'll discover the breathtaking coastline of Puglia. Along the way, you can admire one of Italy's most beautiful rock formations, the Castellana Grotte. You'll continue to Polignano a Mare, an absolute mustvisit where you can take a refreshing swim. If you prefer a quieter coastal village, San Vito is highly recommended. On the way back, you'll drive right through Monopoli. The village is known for its white streets and the idyllic harbor filled with colorful fishing boats. This route provides the perfect opportunity for swimming and snorkeling in the azure blue waters.

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ALBEROBELLO, LOCOROTONDO, MARTINA FRANCA 85 KM During this route, you'll venture into the inland areas and seek out the typical white villages. In the heart of Puglia, you'll find Alberobello, a village that is a true must-see. Get lost in its winding streets and admire the iconic Trulli houses. Next, you'll continue to Locorotondo, named after the round shape of the old town center. You'll conclude this route with a final stop in Martina Franca.

CISTERNINO & OSTUNI 62 KM On this day of riding, you'll explore the most charming villages. Live to the rhythm of Southern Italy and take it a bit slower today. The first stop is just a short drive away, about an hour: Cisternino. Here, you'll quickly feel the Mediterranean atmosphere as you wander through the streets and along small shops. Continue cruising on your Vespa to the delightful Ostuni. The village is built against a hilltop and treats you to views of olive groves and the Adriatic Sea. Here, too, the lively Apulian culture prevails. Immerse yourself among the locals and enjoy their warm hospitality. Afterwards, follow the coastline back to Fasano. Along the way, you can stop at various secluded beaches or indulge in another tasty treat in Torre Canne.

57 km 58 km 62 km

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Program of the week ARRIVAL

MASSERIA DON SANTE

On your arrival day, you can choose the Early Pick-Up option, which will allow you to take your Vespa on a first spin and discover the region around the Masseria. It's the perfect opportunity to get to know your scooter, the winding roads and the traffic a little better. Your guide will give you a little route to follow!

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ROUTE 1:

POLIGNANO A MARE - MONOPOLI

On this route, you'll first explore the inland areas before cruising along the beautiful coastline of Puglia. From your Vespa, you'll have an impressive view of the azure blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. This route begins with an optional visit to Grotte di Castellana. Explore the underground world with its majestic stalactites and stalagmites. After these impressive rock formations, you'll continue towards the coast. An hour further, you'll reach Polignano a Mare, a must-visit with its spectacular cliff coast.

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In addition to a lively city center, there is also a beach where you can bask in the sunshine. For those seeking a quieter environment, San Vito offers an ideal pitstop. You can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and take a refreshing dip. On the way back, you'll drive through the harbor town of Monopoli. Within the old city walls lies a historic center. The harbor, Porto Vecchio, is the perfect place to savor an Italian gelato. Monopoli combines the charm of an old town with the relaxed atmosphere of a coastal town.

ROUTE 2:

ALBEROBELLO - LOCOROTONDO MARTINA FRANCA

From the Masseria, it's a 40-minute drive to Alberobello, the first stop on this route. It is perhaps the most famous village in Puglia and is well worth a visit. Stroll through the narrow alleys and admire the iconic Trulli. From Alberobello, continue your adventure to Locorotondo. The village is also known as the balcony of the Valle d’Itria because of its stunning views. The region around Locorotondo is renowned for its wine production, especially the white wine Locorotondo DOC. Wander through the charming alleys with whitewashed buildings and discover hidden squares with cozy cafes.

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Hop back on your Vespa and ride to Martina Franca. This city has a rich historical past, and you can still feel its influence today. Martina Franca is strategically situated on top of a hill, and the city walls and 24 watchtowers once defended it. Today, you'll find only baroque and Renaissance gates separating the modern district from the old historic center.

ROUTE 3:

CISTERNINO & OSTUNI

During this route, take it a bit slower with a visit to two authentic villages. The first stop is in Cisternino. Cisternino is a charming village with a maze of whitewashed buildings. Get lost among the picturesque houses connected by archways. Take your time to enjoy a drink on Piazza Vittorio Emanuele. The square, with its bell tower, is a beautiful spot to soak in the village life. Then, it's time to restart your Vespas and continue riding to the second stop: Ostuni.

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Once you arrive in Ostuni, you immediately sense the authenticity of the village. Enjoy local specialties in the cozy trattorias and discover the unique blend of tradition and modernity that Ostuni has to offer. Whether you're strolling through the streets, exploring the local markets, or enjoying panoramic views from the city walls, Ostuni leaves an unforgettable impression during Your Vespa Trip. To conclude your trip in full glory, travel back along the coast to your base. This way, you can take another refreshing swim, go snorkeling, or simply relax for a while.

LAST DAY

CIAO BELLA

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The hotel Located in the heart of Puglia, you'll find the charming Masseria Don Sante hotel. It's the perfect accommodation for this trip. This beautiful Apulian country house offers a delicious freshly prepared breakfast every morning, as well as Italian lunch or dinner. Breakfast is included in your stay. After a day of exploration on the Vespa, you can relax here in the refreshing pool and peaceful surroundings. The Masseria is just a short drive from the bustling Fasano, the ideal place to immerse yourself in the delightful Italian atmosphere.

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How to get there? The best way to travel to Italy for your trip to Puglia is by flying to the international airports of Bari (BRI) or Brindisi (BDS). There are several ways to get from Bari or Brindisi Airport to the hotel: Shuttle via The Vespa Trip: You can book an airport-hotel or hotel-airport shuttle through The Vespa Trip for €35 per person. Please note that these shuttles are only available on the first and last day of Your Vespa Trip. Unfortunately, it's not possible to book the shuttle on other dates. Shuttle hours can be found on our website. Taxi: From Bari Airport, it's about an hour's drive to the hotel by taxi. A taxi from the airport can cost you between €120 and €150 for a one-way trip. From Brindisi Airport, it takes about 45 minutes, and the cost is between €110 and €140 for a one-way trip. Public Transport: From Bari Airport, you can take the train to Bari central station, then transfer to the train to Fasano. From Brindisi Airport, take a bus to Brindisi central (AP line), then transfer to the train to Fasano. From Fasano, it's about a 10-minute ride to the hotel.

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Did you know that... 1

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Ostuni, also known as the 'White City,' is named for its whitewashed buildings?

Puglia has its own traditional pasta? The pasta is called orecchiette, named for its unique shape resembling small ears?

Trulli is a plural form, referring to multiple cone-shaped houses, and one house is called a Trullo?

Puglia is home to the Taranta, a traditional music and dance style often associated with the Tarantula spider and the healing powers of the music?

The name Puglia comes from the Latin "apluvia," meaning 'lack of rain'?

The Vespa WHAT KIND OF VESPA? The Vespa you drive during your Vespa Trip is a Vespa Primavera 125 cc. These Vespas reach a maximum speed of 90 km/h, but you won’t drive at such speeds during your trip. Normally, you cruise through the Italian countryside at maximum 40 or 50 km/h. This gives you the freedom to drive in a relaxed way and fully enjoy the surroundings.

WHICH DRIVING LICENSE? To drive a Vespa 125 cc in Italy, you need to have a valid motorcycle license (category A) or a regular driving license (category B). You must be at least 18 years old at the time of your trip.

START-TO-VESPA To really enjoy your Vespa Trip and to make sure your trip goes safely, you need to have certain driving skills. If you have driven any other scooter before, you will be able to drive a Vespa. If you have never driven a Vespa or other scooter or you feel very insecure while driving, we strongly recommend taking this class first. You can choose to follow a Start-To-Vespa class on your arrival day, given by our Vespa Trip guide. He or she will teach you everything you need to know to drive a Vespa. You will get a detailed explanation of how the Vespa is built and how you drive it. Afterwards, you’ll take a few small test laps in a parking lot or on a street without traffic. The guide corrects and supports you if necessary until you feel safe enough to hit the road. Of course you can also choose to take classes yourself in advance or practise with a scooter or Vespa from a friend or family member.

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Price All this from 640€ in Tuscan, 610€ on the Amalfi Coast and 590€ for Puglia.

WHAT'S INCLUDED? You have chosen to join the Vespa Trip to discover Italy? Great! You don't have to worry about the logistics. We take care of it for you. No need to spend hours researching and organizing everything. From the moment you arrive, our guides will give you a warm welcome. They will brief you every day and provide you with all the information you need to discover the area on a Vespa.

THE SOLO TRIPPER GPS in one hand and the road book in the other, you can also discover the entire region on your own. The routes we’ve chosen will take you along the most beautiful roads and landscapes, with different stops in the most charming villages.

IN A GROUP In Italy, you can also choose to follow our guide and ride with other Vespa Trippers. Imagine the look on the faces of the locals when you pass them honking your horn!

*When you book, you can add some additional options such as cancellation insurance and travel assistance insurance.

Options 1

Cancellation insurance at € 49 per person - Protect yourself from unforeseen circumstances such as illness before departure or a new employment contract. This cannot be changed after your booking.

Travel insurance at € 39 per person - An accident happens quickly, so don't travel uninsured!

GPS: € 30 per Vespa Start to Vespa lesson : € 50 per person

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Early Pick-Up and Late Drop-Off: € 50 per Vespa

The Vespa Trippers A lot of Vespa Trippers have already thoroughly enjoyed their time on The Vespa. They took these beautiful photos to share with family and friends these amazing landscapes and views. Be sure to bring your camera along on Your Vespa Trip so you can capture all the beautiful moments and who knows, maybe your photo will be among them next year!

The Vespa Trippers @thevespatrip

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