Hiking in the Alta Murgia National Park: the forest and the ancient farmhouse
Location: Basilicata, Italy
Country: Italy
Rating: 4.8
Supplier Name: Tandoi Marinella Guida Ambientale Escursionistica
Similar Experiences: Experience 1, Experience 2
Meta Description: Explore Alta Murgia’s forests and rural architecture on a 3-hour guided hike, uncovering legends, biodiversity, and stunning views in Italy’s unspoiled landscapes.
Stepping into the Scoparella Forest near Ruvo di Puglia, you’re immediately struck by the sense of calm and untouched nature that surrounds you. This 3-hour guided hike, led by expert guide Tandoi Marinella, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historic rural architecture, and intriguing local stories at a very reasonable price. The tour is flexible in timing—check availability for the start that suits your travel plans—and it’s accessible for most visitors, including those in wheelchairs.
What we love most about this experience is how it combines biodiversity with cultural heritage. The towering centuries-old oaks and lush undergrowth offer a shaded, cool escape, while the dry stone walls and old sheep farms (“Jazzi”) tell silent stories of rural life. We also appreciated the chance to learn about the legend of the “Devil’s Jazzo”, which adds a layer of local folklore to the walk. On top of that, walking along the Pugliese Aqueduct provides a fascinating glimpse into engineering marvels that have stood the test of time.
A potential drawback? Since the tour emphasizes natural and cultural sights, it requires moderate walking, and the terrain might be uneven in parts. Also, since the activity lasts three hours and involves some uphill sections, it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of mobility. If you love nature, history, and authentic stories, this tour is an excellent fit, especially if you’re looking to escape busy tourist spots and experience a quieter side of Puglia.
Key Points
- Natural surroundings: Walk through one of the oldest and largest oak forests in Alta Murgia.
- Cultural heritage: Discover traditional dry stone walls and rural architecture like the “Jazzi.”
- Legend and folklore: Hear the story of the “Devil’s Jazzo,” adding a mystical touch to your walk.
- Engineering marvels: See the Pugliese Aqueduct and its impressive architecture from above.
- Wildlife: Observe various animal species and edible plants in their natural habitat.
- Sunset views: The walk offers especially stunning scenery during the quiet, glowing hours of sunset.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
Starting Point and Meeting Arrangements
Your adventure begins at the Bosco di Ruvo “Scoparella”, a parking area that serves as the gateway to this enchanting forest. The guide, Tandoi Marinella, meets you in this quiet countryside, setting a relaxed tone right from the start. The meeting point is straightforward, and since no transportation is included, you’ll need to arrange your own way there—consider carpooling or local transport if you’re staying nearby.
Exploring the Forest
Once the group gathers, the walk kicks off into the ancient woodland dominated by huge oak trees. These giants are centuries old and provide a spectacular canopy that filters sunlight, creating a dappled effect on the ground. The guide will point out the Osyris alba, a plant that used to be used for brooms—hence the forest’s name. You can expect to hear about the biodiversity of the area, including the various animal species that find refuge here.
Many reviews highlight how the guide’s storytelling brings the landscape alive. One comment mentions, “Tandoi was a fantastic storyteller, weaving legends into the walk and making the whole experience feel like stepping into a living history book.” The undergrowth is lush, and many plants are edible, a reminder of how rural communities traditionally relied on local flora for sustenance and medicinal uses.
The Cultural Heritage: Jazzi and Rural Architecture
As you stroll along the dry stone walls, you’ll notice the “Jazzi”, ancient sheep farms built from limestone. These structures, often with small, arched roofs, are silent witnesses of a pastoral lifestyle that shaped the region. The guide explains how these walls and buildings were constructed entirely by hand, showcasing local craftsmanship that has persisted through generations. Several guests appreciated this insight, noting that “seeing the Jazzi gave us a real sense of how people lived here, sustainably and close to the land.”
More Great Tours NearbyThe Legend of the “Devil’s Jazzo”
One of the most captivating stories shared is the legend of the “Jazzo del Demonio”. According to local lore, on a rainy night many years ago, two shepherds were visited by an eerie presence in one of these ancient structures. The tale adds a mystical aura to the landscape, making the walk not just about nature but also about local mythology.
The Pugliese Aqueduct and Its Marvels
A highlight of the tour is walking along the Pugliese Aqueduct, an impressive feat of engineering. This aqueduct, one of the longest in Europe, includes a scenic “Aqueduct Bridge” from which you will enjoy panoramic views of the forest and surrounding countryside. The guide shares stories of its construction and historical significance, making it clear why the aqueduct is considered an architectural treasure.
Sunset Magic and the Final Moments
Timing your walk around sunset transforms the experience. As the sky turns shades of pink and orange, the air is filled with intoxicating scents of herbs and wood. Many participants have remarked how this golden hour enhances the natural beauty, turning the landscape into a painter’s palette. The tranquility during this time leaves visitors with a satisfying sense of connection to the land.
Practical Details and Value
Duration and Group Size
At approximately three hours, the hike is a manageable length for most travelers looking for a half-day activity. The group size is typically small, which allows for personalized attention from the guide and more intimate storytelling.
Cost and What’s Included
For a reasonable fee, you get a local guide well-versed in local ecology and history. The price covers the guided walk but does not include transportation to the meeting point or meals, so plan accordingly. Since the tour is designed to be flexible, you might find it fits well into a broader day of exploring Puglia.
Accessibility and Suitability
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many visitors with mobility challenges. However, since the terrain involves uneven paths and gentle inclines, some physical effort is required. It’s not suitable for babies under one year or those with significant mobility issues.
What to Bring
Be sure to carry a sun hat, water (at least one liter), sturdy hiking shoes, outdoor clothing, and a small daypack. Since there are no drinking fountains along the route, hydration is critical. Avoid bringing large bags or open-toed shoes, as safety and comfort are priorities.
Authentic Experience and Final Thoughts
This tour offers more than just a walk in the woods. It’s a chance to connect with local history, legends, and natural biodiversity in a setting that feels far from the busy tourist trail. Many reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see a less commercialized side of Puglia, filled with authentic rural architecture and age-old stories.
The value for money is high, especially considering the expert guidance, the scenic views, and the cultural insights. It’s a perfect activity for travelers who appreciate nature, history, and storytelling, and want a peaceful escape into Italy’s lesser-known landscapes.
If you’re curious about rural Puglia’s way of life, enjoy walking in shaded forests, or wish to learn about local legends, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially suited for those who prefer small-group, meaningful outdoor experiences that combine physical activity with cultural discovery.
FAQ
- Is transportation included? No, you need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point, which is a parking area at the Bosco di Ruvo “Scoparella”.
- How long is the hike? The guided walk lasts around 3 hours.
- Can I join if I have limited mobility? The tour is wheelchair accessible, but some uneven terrain may require a reasonable level of mobility.
- What should I bring? Bring a sun hat, water, hiking shoes, outdoor clothing, and a small backpack.
- Are meals included? No, meals are not included; plan to bring snacks or eat before/after the hike.
- Is the tour suitable for children? It’s suitable for most ages, but not recommended for babies under one year or those with mobility issues.
- What makes this experience special? The blend of natural beauty, rural architecture, local legends, and panoramic views makes it authentic and memorable.
- Is the guide bilingual? Yes, the tour is conducted in Italian and English.
- Are there any restrictions on luggage? Large bags are discouraged; a small daypack is best.
- When is the best time to do this hike? Sunset offers particularly beautiful scenery, but the tour is available during daylight hours based on availability.
To sum it up, this hike in Alta Murgia provides a genuine slice of rural Italy, combining scenic walks, intriguing stories, and a chance to see one of the region’s oldest forests and historic structures. It’s ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking for a peaceful way to connect with local culture away from crowded tourist spots. If you’re prepared with the right gear and a sense of curiosity, this tour will leave you with lasting memories of Italy’s unspoiled countryside.
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