Nestled in the picturesque region of Apulia, the charming village of Ginosa invites explorers to embark on a captivating journey. This "Between Gravine and Sea Food and Wine Tour" unveils the town’s medieval essence, blending its stunning rock churches and cave dwellings with the culinary delights of fresh seafood and exquisite local wines. Guided by experts, visitors uncover Ginosa’s rich history and vibrant culture, seeing a world where the past and present seamlessly intertwine. What secrets and marvels await those who venture into this enchanting landscape?
Key Points
- Explore the medieval village of Ginosa, located in the Taranto province, known for its rock churches, cave houses, and vibrant local craftsmanship.
- Witness the traditional bread preparation in a wood-fired oven and sample typical Ginosa baked goods and specialties.
- Visit the Rivolta rock village, with 66 cave-houses across five terraced levels, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity of past inhabitants.
- Guided tour includes entrance fees to rock churches, an artisan’s cave-house, and a certified guide throughout the 2.5-hour experience.
- Tour may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility or recent surgeries, due to the uneven terrain and challenges for wheelchair users.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Ginosa Food and Wine Tour offers a 2.5-hour exploration of Ginosa, a medieval village in the Taranto province, priced at £42.17 per person.
The tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund and the option to reserve a spot without upfront payment.
Travelers can expect to discover Ginosa’s rock churches, cave houses, and local craftsmanship.
The tour includes guided group access to the rock churches of S.Sofia, S.Barbara, and the Mother Church, as well as an exploration of the Rivolta rock village and its 66 cave-houses.
Visitors will also experience traditional bread preparation in a wood-fired oven and sample typical baked products.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ginosa.
Ginosa’s Medieval Charm and History
Nestled in the Taranto province of Italy, Ginosa is a medieval village that captivates visitors with its remarkable history and charm. Surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped ravine, the area has been continuously inhabited since the Middle Paleolithic.
The village’s twin-like connection to Matera, the 2019 European Capital of Culture, adds to its allure. In 1957, the ancient Casali settlement within Ginosa was displaced due to uninhabitable conditions, leaving behind a legacy of rock churches, cave houses, and local craftsmanship.
Today, this picturesque town offers a glimpse into its storied past, inviting travelers to explore its winding streets, rock-hewn structures, and vibrant traditions.
Exploring Rock Churches and Cave Dwellings
One of the highlights of the Ginosa Food and Wine Tour is the opportunity to explore the area’s remarkable rock churches and cave dwellings.
Visitors can discover the ancient S.Sofia, S.Barbara, and Mother Church, each carved into the rocky landscape.
The tour also includes a visit to the Rivolta rock village, where 66 cave-houses are nestled across five terraced levels.
Guests will get an immersive experience, learning about the region’s long history of continuous human habitation and the displacement of ancient settlements due to uninhabitable conditions.
This unique architectural legacy provides a glimpse into the resilience and ingenuity of Ginosa’s past inhabitants.
Experiencing Local Traditions and Culinary Delights
Along With exploring the historic rock churches and cave dwellings, the Ginosa Food and Wine Tour allows visitors to enjoy the local culinary traditions. Guests will have the opportunity to witness the preparation of traditional bread in a wood-fired oven and sample the delectable baked goods. The tour also includes a visit to a local artisan’s cave-house, where travelers can learn about the unique craftsmanship and heritage of the region. Through these engaging activities, the tour provides a genuine taste of Ginosa’s vibrant culture and the close-knit community that has thrived in this remarkable landscape.
| Activity | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bread Preparation | Observe the traditional process of baking bread in a wood-fired oven | 30 mins |
| Tasting of Baked Products | Sample the freshly baked breads and other typical Ginosa specialties | 15 mins |
| Artisan Cave-House Visit | Explore the unique architecture and craftsmanship of a local artisan’s home | 45 mins |
Tour Logistics and Meeting Point
Conveniently, the tour meets at the clock tower in Piazza Orologio, allowing participants to easily find the starting point.
The tour includes a guided group experience, with entrance fees to the rock churches, an artisan cave-house visit, and tastings of typical local products. A certified guide accompanies the group throughout the journey.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, recent surgeries, or motion sickness, as well as for babies under 1 year.
Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring essential items like a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle to ensure a comfortable experience.
Accessibility and Mobility Considerations
The Ginosa Food and Wine Tour may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility or recent surgeries.
The tour involves exploring rock churches, cave houses, and navigating uneven terrain, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Wheelchair users may also find it difficult to fully participate in the tour activities.
Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for those prone to motion sickness, as the transportation to and from Ginosa may cause discomfort.
Infants under one year of age are also not permitted on the tour.
Potential participants should carefully consider their physical abilities before booking to ensure they can fully enjoy the Ginosa experience.
Recommended Attire and Essentials
To make the most of the Ginosa Food and Wine Tour, visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves exploring the rock village and visiting various sites. A hat and sunscreen are recommended to protect against the Apulian sun.
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the tour. Lightweight, breathable clothing is advised, as the region can be quite warm, especially during the summer months.
Avoid wearing anything too formal or bulky, as the tour involves navigating through narrow alleys and cave dwellings.
Restrictions and Photography Tips
Visitors on the Ginosa Food and Wine Tour should be aware of certain restrictions and guidelines to ensure an enjoyable and respectful experience.
While capturing the charm of Ginosa’s rock churches and cave houses, guests are asked to refrain from:
- Consuming alcohol or drugs during the tour
- Bringing glass objects that could pose a safety hazard
- Recording audio or video without the guide’s permission
- Littering or damaging the delicate historic structures
- Wearing inappropriate clothing that may not suit the tour’s religious and cultural sites
Bringing a camera to immortalize the tour’s highlights is encouraged, but visitors should be mindful of the local customs and tour leader’s instructions to preserve the integrity of the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Time Do We Have for Independent Exploration?
The tour lasts 2.5 hours, which includes guided visits to rock churches, a cave-house, and local product tastings. There’s no specified time for independent exploration, as the schedule is structured around the included group activities.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Requests Accommodated?
The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions and special requests, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. Guests should inform the tour provider of any dietary needs when booking to ensure a customized experience.
Can We Purchase Additional Local Products During the Tour?
Yes, the tour allows participants to purchase additional local products during the visit. Visitors can explore Ginosa’s artisan offerings and take home specialty foods, crafts, or other souvenirs from the region.
Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With the Local Community?
The tour offers opportunities to interact with the local community. Visitors can experience traditional bread preparation, visit a cave house, and sample typical baked products, providing a chance to engage with Ginosa’s artisans and residents.
What Is the Group Size and Tour Guide-To-Participant Ratio?
The tour has a small group size, typically limited to 12-15 participants. The guide-to-participant ratio is around 1:12, ensuring personalized attention and an intimate experience for the travelers.
Recap
The Ginosa "Between Gravine and Sea Food and Wine Tour" offers an immersive experience that showcases the town’s medieval charm, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene. Guests will explore stunning rock churches, savor fresh seafood and local wines, and uncover the region’s culture with the guidance of a certified professional. This enchanting journey through Ginosa’s picturesque landscape is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this remarkable tour.
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