Puglia
Puglia
Puglia, at Italy’s heel, is a region defined by its character and variety. Here you’ll find Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site of trulli houses with their distinctive conical roofs and the likes of Lecce, with its elegant squares and ornate churches showcasing Puglia’s baroque splendour. Meanwhile, Otranto and Gallipoli bring history and seaside life together on the Adriatic. Nearby Matera – though not considered Puglia – is certainly worth visiting for its picturesque views and cave dwellings, among the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. The coastline offers stretches of sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs, while inland the landscape changes to olive groves and vineyards that have shaped both the economy and the cuisine for centuries. Driving through Puglia is a pleasure, as winding roads connect small towns where traditions remain at the heart of daily life. Local produce takes centre stage, from simple orecchiette pasta served with seasonal vegetables to robust wines and peppery olive oils.
A journey through Puglia brings together culture, history and food. In Alberobello, step inside traditional trulli dwellings and learn about the history of these unique structures. Take part in a hands-on cooking class at a countryside masseria, preparing orecchiette and tasting cheeses and olive oils made on the estate. In Lecce, a guided walk reveals the city’s striking baroque buildings and quieter corners, while evenings might be spent at open-air concerts or sampling wines in nearby cellars. On the coast, explore Otranto’s old town and castle before enjoying fresh seafood by the harbour. You might also choose to visit Ostuni, the ‘White City’, whose hilltop streets overlook a sea of olive groves.
Typical trulli in Alberobello, Puglia
Typical food in Puglia
Vineyard in Puglia
Accommodation in Puglia often reflects its rural heritage. Restored masserias, once working farmhouses, now offer rustic charm, cooking classes, pools and spa facilities. In nearby Matera, cave hotels provide an atmospheric stay in the city’s historic Sassi quarter. Along the coast, properties such as Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel offer seaside luxury with easy access to nearby towns. For something more exclusive, boutique retreats in Ostuni and Fasano bring together design and character. Each stay is chosen for its style, service and authenticity, ensuring your accommodation is an integral part of your Puglian journey.
Spring brings wildflowers across the countryside and warm but gentle days for exploring Alberobello’s trulli or Lecce’s baroque splendour. Autumn is deeply tied to food and tradition, with olive and grape harvests filling the landscape with activity and offering travellers a chance to join tastings and festivals.
In summer, beaches from Polignano to Gallipoli bustle with Italian holidaymakers, creating a lively, local atmosphere. It’s the moment for long, sun-soaked afternoons by the Adriatic and late dinners under the stars. Winter slows the pace dramatically – perfect for those seeking cultural immersion, wandering whitewashed towns and indulging in the hearty cuisine that defines this season, however, be aware that many hotels close during this period.
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