Puglia Holidays

The Puglia region makes up the stiletto heel to Italy’s boot. It’s stretched over 19,300 square kilometres – with 800 of that devoted just to coastline. The Italians have managed to keep this place a bit of a secret, so you can expect some parts to come tourist-free. It’s all about wandering the Baroque churches, vineyards and fine-sand beaches completely undisturbed.

No spot of Puglia is the same. Gold-coloured wheat fields blanket the north, and sandy coves and sea caves take their place to the south. The coastline is punctuated with limestone cliffs, national parks and quaint towns. One of these is Torre Canne, which is worth a visit for its mineral-rich hot springs and dune-backed beach. Further along, Torre Guaceto’s wild beaches are all part of a beautiful nature reserve.

Puglia doesn’t fall short in the history department. Everyone from Greeks, Romans, Normans and Byzantines has left their mark on the region. Reminders of the centuries-old invasion threats still stand in the medieval watchtowers that dot the coastline. The city of Ugento houses some of the best ancient finds, including a 5th-century bronze Zeus statue. Then, there’s Fasano, just inland from the seaside hamlet of Savelletri, where you’ll find pre-Roman churches, palaces and crumbling walls.