Mountain Biking

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Ride breathtaking coastal trails across Italy and Croatia, where rugged cliffs meet the sea. Experience world-class MTB routes, stunning panoramic views. Discover hidden gems and savor authentic Mediterranean cuisine along the way.

Adventure Insights

Location:

Gargano National Park, Puglia (Peschici, Vieste, Mattinata, Rodi Garganico)

Difficulty:

Advanced (Trails range from 30–40 km, 850–1,150 Hm, with technical singletracks and steep climbs)

Duration:

8 Days

Itinerary

The Gargano is more than dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters - it’s a paradise for mountain bikers and sailors. Over eight days, tackle documented, challenging MTB trails, from coastal loops with Adriatic views to rugged mountain ascents in the Foresta Umbra. Whether navigating technical descents or climbing to panoramic summits, this trip blends adrenaline and relaxation, culminating in a scenic sail to the Tremiti Islands. Disclaimer: Trails and activities are tailored for advanced riders, with adjustments to ensure safety and enjoyment based on group dynamics and weather conditions.
Day 1:
Welcome and Sail to Peschici

Your journey begins at 15:00 with check-in at Marina di Rodi Garganico, Puglia. Meet your crew, board the yacht, and set sail for Peschici, a charming coastal town (10 nautical miles, ~2 hours). Arrive late afternoon, anchor in the sheltered Peschici Bay, and explore the medieval old town on foot. No biking today due to late arrival.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Private SailboatElevation: 600 m
Day 2:
Peschici Coastal Trail

After breakfast, start your first MTB adventure directly from the Peschici Bay anchorage. Spend the day riding a challenging coastal loop, returning to the anchorage for the night.

MTB Spots:

  • Peschici Coastal Loop (Advanced, 32 km, 850 Hm): this trail follows coastal paths toward Zaiana Beach and Valle Clavia. Features technical singletracks, steep climbs, and rocky descents.
  • Highlights: Panoramic Adriatic views, limestone cliffs, hidden coves. Starts and ends at Peschici Bay.

Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and dinner
Accommodation: Private Sail Boat
Day 3:
Sail to Vieste and Countryside Explorer

Early morning sail from Peschici to Vieste (12 nautical miles, ~2.5 hours). Anchor in Baia di San Felice, a sheltered bay with a flat beach for dinghy landing. Ride a demanding hinterland trail, returning to the anchorage.

MTB Spots:

  • Vieste Hinterland Explorer (Advanced, 35 km, 900 Hm): this route winds through olive groves and coastal paths toward Scialara and Defensola. Expect technical descents and long climbs. 
  • Highlights: Pizzomunno rock, sea views, ancient dry-stone walls. Starts and ends at Baia di San Felice

Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and dinner
Accommodation: Private Sail Boat

Day 4:
Monte Sacro Enduro

Remain anchored in Baia di San Felice. The support vehicle delivers MTBs to the beach. Spend the day riding a rigorous enduro trail to Monte Sacro, returning to the anchorage for the night.

MTB Spots:

  • Monte Sacro Enduro (Advanced, 38 km, 1,050 Hm): this trail ascends to Monte Sacro (787 m) through dense forests. Features singletracks and steep gravel climbs. 
  • Highlights: Monastery ruins, 360° views, lush vegetation. Starts and ends at Baia di San Felice.

Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and dinner
Accommodation: Private Sail Boat

Day 5:
Sail to Mattinata and Monte Barone

Morning sail from Baia di San Felice to Mattinata (10 nautical miles, ~2 hours). Anchor in Baia di Mattinata, with a sandy beach for dinghy landing. Ride a coastal and mountain trail, returning to the anchorage.

MTB Spots:

  • Mattinata Coastal and Monte Barone (Advanced, 34 km, 880 Hm): this route combines coastal paths and climbs to Monte Barone. Features narrow singletracks and rocky descents. 
  • Highlights: Turquoise sea, Tremiti Islands views, olive groves. Starts and ends at Baia di Mattinata.


Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and dinner
Accommodation: Private Sail Boat
Day 6:
Monte Calvo Challenge

Remain anchored in Baia di Mattinata. The support vehicle delivers MTBs to the beach. Tackle the demanding Monte Calvo trail, returning to the anchorage for the night.

MTB Spots:

  • Monte Calvo Challenge (Advanced, 40 km, 1,150 Hm): this route climbs to Monte Calvo (1,065 m), Gargano’s highest peak, via gravel paths and singletracks. Features long ascents and technical descents.
  • Highlights: Panoramic views, alpine flora, birds of prey. Starts and ends at Baia di Mattinata.


Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and dinner
Accommodation: Private Sail Boat
Day 7:
Sail to Rodi Garganico and Canneto Loop

Early morning sail from Mattinata to Marina di Rodi Garganico (25 nautical miles, ~5 hours, with a swim stop at Baia di Campi). Anchor in the secure marina. The support vehicle delivers MTBs directly to the marina. Ride a coastal and forest trail, returning to the marina.

MTB Spots:

  • Sentieri 21 Canneto Loop (Advanced, 30 km, 850 Hm): this route runs through pine forests and along Lago di Varano. Features gravel paths and singletracks. 
  • Highlights: Lago di Varano, Mediterranean scrub, historic wells. Starts and ends at Marina di Rodi Garganico.


Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and dinner
Accommodation: Private Sail Boat
Day 8:
Departure

Enjoy last breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 AM. Say goodbye to your crew and new friends, leaving with unforgettable memories of your adventure.

Meals: Breakfast

Meet your guides

Robert - Chief Guide

Robert is a seasoned mountain biker with years of experience exploring Europe’s most challenging and scenic trails. His passion for MTB, combined with his deep knowledge of diverse terrains, makes him an excellent guide for your Gargano adventure. Whether navigating technical routes or sharing trail tips, Robert ensures an unforgettable and rewarding biking experience.

Carlo - Chief Skipper

With years of experience navigating the Adriatic and beyond, Carlo is the backbone of every sailing adventure. As Chief Skipper, he ensures smooth sailing, safety, and the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation on the open sea.

Explore the Boats

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Matì - Catamaran

Sail with Maca’s Excess 14, where unmatched comfort meets top-tier performance. Perfect for unforgettable adventures on the open sea.

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Don Carlo - Sailing Yacht

Explore the Adriatic aboard the Sun Odyssey 490 - spacious, comfortable, and built for adventure.

8

Days

€ 2.108 EUR
/ Trip
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Things to Know

What’s included?

What’s Included in Your Maca Adventure?

  • 8-day adventure featuring guided and supported mountain biking on documented Gargano trails.
  • Private yacht or catamaran accommodations (Sun Odyssey 490 / Excess 14).
  • All meals listed in the itinerary (3/4 onboard, 1/4 ashore in local trattorias).
  • Support vehicle for MTB transport to anchor bays.
  • Tender boat support for access to trail start points.
  • Mountain bikes (suitable for technical trails), helmets, and repair tools (multi-tool, spare tube, pump, tire levers).
  • Bed linen and bath towels.
  • Safety equipment and full onboard comfort (Wi-Fi, AC, generator, watermaker, SUP, snorkel gear, etc.).
  • Fuel and onboard utilities.
  • Technical briefings and daily itinerary support from the adventure team.

Optional Add-Ons:

Mountain Bike Rental – Available for an additional €435

What’s Not Included?

  • Flights to and from Italy.
  • Personal expenses & souvenirs.
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory).
  • Port fees outside Marina di Rodi Garganico.
  • Alcoholic beverages (shared onboard fund optional).
  • Shuttle service to/from Bari or Pescara (available upon request).

How fit do I need to be?

To join this guided MTB adventure, a solid fitness level is required. Participants should have a regular training routine, including 2 to 3 workouts per week of at least 30 minutes each, incorporating high-intensity intervals. Expect daily rides of 4 to 6 hours over 7 consecutive days, often covering technical and challenging terrain.

Your experienced guide will assess your skills, offer support, and provide coaching throughout the journey. Each rider will have two batteries per day for their e-bike, allowing flexibility in effort and endurance. If fatigue sets in, our logistics team is available to assist and provide transfers when needed.

To prepare, focus on cardiovascular endurance and strength training, ensuring you're ready to tackle the adventure with confidence.

What if I’ve never mountain biked before?

Prior mountain biking experience is essential for this guided e-MTB adventure. Participants should have at least two years of experience, feel confident navigating gentle singletrack, rocky terrain, and steep, flowing trails, and be comfortable with slightly exposed paths. Expect to cover up to 40 km (25 miles) per day, with elevation gains of up to 1,200 m (3,937 ft). Routes can be adjusted based on group ability and preference.

Riders should know their limits, feel comfortable dismounting when needed, and be prepared for varied and technical terrain. To get the most out of the trip, increasing your riding frequency in the weeks leading up to departure is recommended.

Your expert guide will provide coaching, refine technique, and ensure safety throughout the journey. If needed, a support vehicle is available to assist or transfer riders to the next destination for rest and recovery.

What do I need to bring?

Personal Gear

  • MTB-specific helmet and shoes (suitable for both biking and hiking)
  • Bike gloves and protective eyewear
  • Knee and elbow pads for added protection
  • Waterproof jacket for unexpected weather changes
  • Biking shorts (at least 2 pairs) for comfort on long rides
  • Breathable base layers (merino wool recommended)
  • Short-sleeved & long-sleeved MTB tops for varied conditions
  • Socks (at least 4 pairs) and a buff/neck gaiter
  • Warm down jacket, hat, and gloves for cool evenings
  • Sunscreen & SPF lip balm to protect from the elements
  • Hydration system (Camelback or water bottles)
  • 20L+ daypack with rain cover for essentials on the go
  • Towel, swimsuit, and personal toiletries

Bike Essentials (If renting, guides will provide necessary equipment)

  • Spare brake pads (x2 sets)
  • Tire repair kit, inner tubes (min. 2), and small pump
  • Tubeless repair kit (if using tubeless tires)
  • Chain-specific quick link and additional derailleur hanger
  • Any unique spare parts for your bike
  • Full service completed before the trip, including suspension check
  • Extra e-bike battery & charger (essential for long daily rides)<

General Gear for All MACA Adventures

  • Flip flops or sandals for use on the boat
  • Clean, non-marking rubber-soled shoes for the deck
  • Beach towel
  • Personal towel for outdoor use
  • Waterproof windbreaker
  • Swimwear
  • Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
  • Any personal medications
  • Power bank for charging devices
  • Small daypack for excursions

Weather & Conditions

Expect mild to warm temperatures, with occasional rain and wind.

  • Spring (May-June): 15°C – 26°C (59°F – 79°F)
  • Autumn (September-October): 15°C – 26°C (59°F – 79°F)
  • We recommend checking the forecast before departure and adjusting your gear accordingly. Be prepared for all conditions, because the adventure never stops!

What will the meals and accommodations be like?

Your adventure is not just about the trails - it’s also a culinary journey. The package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring authentic regional cuisine and select meals at top local restaurants. Lunch will vary between picnic-style meals and restaurant stops, ensuring a diverse dining experience. Snacks and wine tastings are also included. However, additional drinks (alcohol, coffee, and personal treats like gelato) are not covered.

For accommodations, your floating basecamp will be a comfortable sailing yacht, featuring shared cabins, two bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, simply let us know when booking, and we’ll make the necessary arrangements.

Group sizes and age requirements

Our group tours typically include 5 participants with one guide, though the final group size depends on skill level. The tour requires a minimum of 5 participants to run, with a maximum of 10.

For private adventures, groups can range from 5 to 11 people, and itineraries can be customized to fit your needs. Solo travelers are welcome—if you don’t opt for a private cabin, you’ll be paired with another participant.

Larger or fully private MTB sailing trips can be arranged - contact us before booking to discuss options.

Minimum Age Requirements

  • 18+ – No restrictions.
  • 60+ – Please contact us before booking to assess suitability.
  • 14+ – Young riders are welcome if they can manage sustained climbs and rough terrain. Keep in mind that e-bikes can weigh up to 24kg (53 lbs).
  • Under 18 – Must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Contact us before booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

The journey begins in Rodi Garganico, Puglia, our departure point for the adventure. Most travelers fly into Bari International Airport (BRI), which is about 3 hours away. From there, you can reach Rodi Garganico by train, bus, or private transfer.

We recommend arriving the day before departure to allow time to settle in. Once your itinerary is confirmed, we will provide the exact meeting time and location for Day 1 to ensure a smooth start to your trip.

Safety measures and insurance

  • We strongly recommend securing comprehensive travel and medical insurance to ensure peace of mind throughout your adventure. Coverage should include trip cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuation, and unexpected travel disruptions, especially in remote locations.
  • Once your booking is confirmed and fully paid, you’ll have the option to purchase specialized adventure travel insurance. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out - we’re happy to help!

Payment policies, cancellations, special notes

To guarantee your place on an unforgettable Maca adventure, the full trip amount must be paid at the time of booking. Book early and enjoy a 12.5% early bird discount, ensuring smooth preparations and priority access to your trip.

Cancellation Policy

If your plans change, refunds are processed as follows:

  • More than 45 days before departure: Full refund of the total amount.
  • 45–30 days before departure: 50% refund of the total amount.
  • Less than 30 days before departure: No refunds available.

Important Notes

  • All cancellation requests must be submitted via email.
  • Payments for extras on board (such as additional services or equipment) must be paid in cash at boarding.
  • If Maca cancels the trip, you will receive a full refund or have the option to transfer your payment to another trip. Maca is not responsible for additional costs like flights or accommodations.
  • Force Majeure: In cases of unforeseen events (severe weather, political unrest, or other emergencies beyond our control), refunds cannot be provided. However, we will assist in transferring your booking to a future trip whenever possible.

Book early, secure your spot, and get ready for an adventure like no other!

Travel and Medical Protection

Maca recommends securing comprehensive travel insurance to ensure coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, travel delays, and lost baggage. A well-rounded policy protects your investment before departure and provides essential support during your journey.

For added peace of mind, we can assist in finding a customized protection plan that suits your needs. If you have any questions or require guidance, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help!

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