DETAILED ITINERARY

Puglia (Apulia) forms the ‘heel’ of boot-shaped Italy. This lesser-visited region offers an authentic Italian holiday experience with an excellent mix of culture, history, gastronomy, unspoilt beaches, warm climate and very friendly people. There are many picturesque hilltop towns with whitewashed buildings, a range of UNESCO World Heritage sights and hundreds of miles of stunning Mediterranean coastline.

Sun-drenched vegetables ‘antipasta’ are served in terracotta dishes and the ‘orecchiette’ (little ears) pasta served with home-made tomato salsa, fresh basil and grated ricotta cheese is simply delicious. Burrata, an extra creamy type of Mozzarella, comes from this region and seafood and fresh fish also abound. Puglia is the largest producer of olive oil in Italy and its wines are also excellent.

The landscape is incredibly varied, ranging from the dramatic coastline of the vast Gargano National Park in the north, to the olive oil producing Itria Valley in the centre, and the crystal clear waters and white beaches of Salento in the south. Invaded and colonised by the Romans, Greeks, Spaniards and Normans, Puglia remains an unspoilt and fascinating destination with plenty to see and do.

The regional capital of Bari is a vibrant port and university town, with the largest airport. Castel del Monte is a 13th century Norman castle and protected UNESCO site that is well worth visiting. There are also many beauty spots within easy reach such as Polignano a Mare in the south, built on the edge of a craggy ravine pockmarked with caves, or the pretty fishing village of Trani in the north, with its imposing Romanesque cathedral.

Venturing inland, the picturesque town of Alberobello is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a high density of ‘trulli’ houses - traditional stone huts with distinctive conical roofs and white-washed exteriors, although many remain unpainted with stonework on display. A short drive away, Martina Franca is a hidden gem with a labyrinth of white streets and very few tourists. Capocollo cured meats come from here. You will also see many ‘trulli’ houses in the olive and wine producing Itria Valley.

In the Foggia Mountains to the north, a slower pace of life takes place in hilltop towns such as Sant’Agata di Puglia or Bovino, where locals meet on squares to share stories and coffee.

In the south, the ‘white city’ of Ostuni is slightly inland from the coast and the drive there provides many scenic views. The photogenic historical centre has an old medieval gate and a labyrinth of alleyways, whilst a mix of Gothic, Byzantine and Roman influences can be seen in the cathedral.

Lecce is a stunning Baroque town, known as the ‘Florence of the South’ because of its wonderful architecture, cathedrals with bell towers and Roman amphitheatre. Coffee culture is strong here, with a particular focus on almond milk iced coffee. There are plenty of bars and fantastic restaurants on little streets, and central squares with live music.

Further south you can visit Otranto with its massive castle, cathedral and wind-swept lighthouse overlooking fascinating rock formations. Don’t overlook the Bauxite Cave, which is surrounded by bright red soil and a lake that is home to turtles and much birdlife. Torre Sant’Andrea is another stunning spot, with yellow-hued rugged cliffs and sparkling emerald waters.

In neighbouring Basilicata, you can explore the ancient ‘sassi’ (cave houses) of Matera, with their cave dwellings and churches hewn into the soft limestone.

A variety of accommodation is available in Puglia, ranging from family-run B&Bs to chic ‘masserie’ (restored farmhouses). This region is particularly well suited to a twin-centre holiday, with car hire to explore the region, but transfers between hotels can also be arranged.

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing en-suite accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis. Puglia transfers from Bari, Brindisi or Pescara are included, as well as flights from London, with other regional departures on request. Car hire can also be arranged.

We offer a choice of hotels at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All hotels are subject to availability.

It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance, and an appropriate driving licence if you intend to hire a car. The FCO should also be consulted.