Puglia
Italy
A trulli magical region
Carpeted with laden olive trees and dotted with ancient settlements, Puglia surely presents Italian countryside at its most rustic and idyllic. Sprawling over the ‘heel’ of Italy’s boot, unspoilt Puglia is blessed with a vast coastline, baroque towns and its own distinct identity. If you can tear yourself away from the sparkling turquoise waters, Puglia offers a wealth of historic riches – from splendid Lecce, the ‘Florence of the South’, to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello – a unique and immaculately preserved town filled with rustic trulli (rotund whitewashed huts with conical roofs).
ECHOES OF HISTORY IN RURAL PUGLIA
A taste of authentic Italy
- Alberobello – formed of ancient trulli dwellings
- Locorotondo – with a wine tasting in the lovely centro storico
- Lecce – the ‘Florence of the South’
- Matera – home to the fascinating Sassi cave grottos
- Visit to an olive oil mill and a mozzarella-making demo
- Castel del Monte – an intriguing medieval castle of spectacular geometry
- Return flights included
- 5 nights half board accommodation in a beautiful hotel in Alberobello
From £1,199 per person
based on two sharing in a twin/double room, with a minimum of 35 passengers travelling in a specific month
Best time to go
April, May, June, September, October
Suggested Hotel
Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
- Modern yet rustic 4-star hotel, surrounded by sprawling gardens
- Tranquil and relaxing in a stunning rural setting
- Fantastic swimming pools and leisure facilities
- Picturesque seating areas, ideal for groups
- A great value, luxurious retreat
Attractions:
Alberobello
Explore the quaint streets of Alberobello, home to the unique trulli – over 1,500 round white houses with cone-shaped roofs. The districts of Rione Monti and Aja Piccola date back to the 14th century, and are built using a prehistoric dry-stone technique. Tipped with white, these whimsical constructions create the look of a fairytale town dusted with sugar.
Locorotondo
Another historic town with unique architecture, the tranquil town of Locorotondo is a visual delight. Seeing fewer tourists than neighbouring Alberobello, its round and ancient centre (for which the town is named) is the perfect place to explore – and to enjoy a glass of the wine which Locorotondo is also famous for. Dotted with trulli dwellings, the creamy buildings shimmer in the sun, and reveal why Locorotondo is widely considered to be one of the prettiest towns in Italy.
Lecce
Once part of the Kingdom of Naples, the grandeur of Lecce is expressed by its ornately sculpted buildings. The pale hues of the limestone emit a warm glow in the sun-baked centro storico, and a closer inspection of the richly adorned façades reveals an elaborate and riotous style of baroque known as barocco leccese. Beyond the drama of its architecture, Lecce is a lovely city with a lively character, and its Roman amphitheatre reveals its more ancient past.
Matera
The ancient city of Matera is home to the Sassi grottos, which have been sheltering human inhabitants for an incredible 7,000 years. These extraordinary cave dwellings form an underground city cut into the limestone of the landscape, and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Castel del Monte
A striking octagonal tower, Castel del Monte is visible for miles around thanks to its hilltop position. To this day, however, this UNESCO World Heritage Site remains something of a mystery. Despite being part of the landscape since it was built in the 13th century, the unique geometric fortress does not appear to have had any defensive purpose.
Team Comments:
“When you’re in Puglia, you know you couldn’t be anywhere else – it is so unique.” (Jo)
Alternatives
Make this tour your own
Why not begin your tour by spending a couple of nights in Lecce first, or add a visit to the fine archaeological museum in Taranto?
Castellana Caves
The Castellana Caves are a fascinating geological formation comprising caves, canyons, stalactites and stalagmites. Surreal, otherworldly spires emerge from the walls in a rich array of colours creating a phantasmagorical spectacle that sparks the imagination.
Monopoli
The coastal town of Monopoli shines luminous white against the deep blue water. The town’s fortifications reveal its storied history, with its Aragon fort and various bastions facing the Adriatic Sea. Today, maritime traditions prevail, and colourful fishing boats bob in the port. Within Monopoli’s lovely centre, the cathedral dominates with its towering belfry and incredible, ornate interior filled with artistic treasures.
Polignano a Mare
Dramatically perched upon the craggy coastal rocks, the ancient settlement of Polignano a Mare has a fascinating historical centre. Whilst taking in the authentic atmosphere and spectacular views, don’t miss an opportunity to try the fabulous ice cream!
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