A few years ago, I visited the city of Matera, in southern Italy, with a large group of friends, knowing almost nothing about its history. Matera is a unique place and this can be clearly seen by visiting Casa Noha, one of the most celebrated places belonging to the Italian Environmental Fund.

The city’s most renowned and oldest parts are the districts of Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. Collectively referred to as the Sassi di Matera, these districts comprise buildings and rock structures that attained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1993. These structures served as dwellings for people until 1950. In that year, the first post-fascist Prime Minister, Alcide De Gasperi, displaced the approximately 15,000 residents of the Sassi due to health and sanitation concerns.

The contradictions of Matera and of some of the places this Collection passes through are recounted by Carlo Levi in his book 'Christ Stopped at Eboli'. In the 1930s, the Piedmontese writer was confined by the fascist regime between Grassano and Aliano, where he could do nothing but note the sad state of those lands.

Today, however, the situation is quite different. While the Sassi di Matera attracts thousands of tourists each year, the most inland and hidden areas of the Basilicata region are perfect for bike touring thanks to unspoilt nature, little traffic and abundant history. A touring bike is the best choice for this route. You’ll need a range of gears, and tyres suitable for uneven asphalt, as well as space for equipment such as camping gear.

Besides the beauty of Matera, the other gem of this Collection is the Dolomiti Lucane mountain range. So-called because of their similarity to the Dolomites in the Triveneto region and also known as 'the Giants emerged from the sea', these rock formations in the Lucanian Apennines are as peculiar as they are ancient. Their formation dates back some 15 million years and the highest peak is Monte Caperno, which reaches an altitude of 1,455 metres (4,774 ft). Along the way, you’ll ride for many kilometres at an altitude of more than 1,100 metres (3,600 ft).

Due to the limited number of accommodation options, I’d advise booking ahead. As the route runs between 100 metres and 1,200 metres (320 - 3,900 ft) above sea level, you’ll need to bring suitable clothing to cope with significant temperature fluctuations, especially in the colder months. The wilderness areas you pass through are perfect for observing flora and fauna. The Dolomiti Lucane is home to red kites, kestrels and other rare birds, but watch out for dogs and other animals.

Matera, along with Andria and Nuoro, is one of three Italian provincial capitals not served by motorways. It’s located on the route from Bari to Montalbano Jonico, operated by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane. Once you reach your destination, the Albano di Lucania station, you can use the Battipaglia-Potenza-Metaponto line to reach the main cities in southern Italy.

This wonderful itinerary from Matera to the Dolomiti Lucane is waiting for you.