Petruscio ravine excursion to Mottola, Taranto

The Gravina di Petruscio is a genuine hidden gem in the Mottola area, located in the province of Taranto. This spectacular canyon stretches for almost 4 kilometers and plunges over 100 meters deep, carved out by water erosion over the centuries. Inside, you’ll find traces of ancient cave-dwelling civilizations, including the Petruscio Village—a troglodytic settlement featuring homes, places of worship, and millennia-old steps carved into the rock.

Did you know? “Gravine” are karst formations typical of Puglia: dramatic gorges where history and nature merge, making them unmissable destinations for lovers of trekking and archaeology.

1. A Journey into the Past

Descending these rocky walls is like flipping through a diary written in water and stone. Every step reveals the lives of ancient communities that once took shelter in this natural canyon, showcasing their remarkable ability to adapt.
If you crave adventure and want to explore a place where time seems to stand still, this experience is perfect for you.

2. The Trekking Experience

Get ready to follow age-old trails carved into the rock. Along the way, you’ll enjoy moments of wonder and silence, surrounded by towering ravines and jaw-dropping viewpoints. Don’t be intimidated by the challenge: our accredited nature guides will assist you every step of the way, sharing fascinating facts about the site’s flora, fauna, and history.

3. Daily Program

• 3:00 PM – Meet-up and participant registration
  (Exact location will be provided upon booking, with GPS coordinates)
• 3:10 PM – Start of the trekking adventure
• 5:30 PM – Scenic break with an aperitif (where flavor meets nature!)
• 6:30 PM (approx.) – Return to the cars

4. Technical Details

• Length: 4 km
• Duration: about 3.5 hours
• Difficulty: E (Hiking)
• Elevation Gain: 117 m
• Trail Surface: natural terrain
• Route: out and back
• Location: Mottola

Our experiences include a professional photo service to capture every moment of your adventure.

5. Recommended Minimum Equipment

• Trekking shoes (comfortable with good grip)
• Technical/breathable clothing in layers
• Backpack (no shoulder bags)
• Hat (for sun and wind protection)
• Water bottle (at least 1 L)
• Snacks (to refuel on the trail)
• Personal cup or mug (no disposable items—let’s respect the environment)

6. Four-Legged Friends

For this specific experience, pets are not allowed.
(We know Fido loves adventures, but this time he’ll have to wait at home!)