Unveiling Puglia: Exploring the Hidden Gems of Italy’s Enchanting Southern Region

Introduction:

Puglia is one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. It’s a place where you can relax and enjoy the stunning coastline, charming towns, and delicious food. The region is also home to some of Italy’s most important historical sites. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled trip exploring ancient ruins and medieval castles, Puglia has something for everyone.

There are plenty of things to do in Puglia. You can explore the hilltop towns, castles, clifftop villages, beaches and olive groves in peace and quiet1. Some of the top attractions are Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a geometric shape on a hilltop, the cathedral of Otranto with its mosaics, skulls, and crypts, the conical houses of Alberobello, and the archaeological caves
of Sassi di Matera. Other places to visit are San Giovanni Rotondo, Padre Pio, Ostuni, the White City, Castellana Caves, and the Tremiti Islands.

Places to visit:
Puglia offers a wealth of captivating destinations to explore. Here are some must-visit places in Puglia, along with the nearby city of
Matera, which is located in the neighboring region of Basilicata:
1. **Alberobello**: Famous for its unique Trulli houses, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a picturesque village with cone-shaped
buildings dating back centuries.
2. **Lecce**: Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce boasts stunning Baroque architecture, charming piazzas, and intricate
stone carvings.
3. **Polignano a Mare**: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, this coastal town is a postcard-perfect destination with its
stunning vistas and narrow streets.
4. **Ostuni**: Often referred to as the “White City,” Ostuni showcases a dazzling maze of whitewashed buildings and a rich history
dating back to ancient times.
5. **Matera** (in Basilicata): Just a short distance from Puglia, Matera is renowned for its ancient Sassi cave dwellings, a UNESCO
World Heritage site and a fascinating glimpse into human history.
6. **Bari**: The capital of Puglia, Bari offers a mix of historical charm, bustling markets, and a beautiful old town known as Bari
Vecchia.
7. **Gallipoli**: This coastal town boasts beautiful beaches, a historic old town, and a charming fishing port.
8. **Martina Franca**: With its well-preserved historic center and Baroque architecture, Martina Franca is a delightful town to
explore.
9. **Taranto**: A city with a rich ancient past, Taranto is home to impressive archaeological sites and a bustling waterfront.
10. **Castel del Monte**: Located in the northern part of Puglia, this unique and mysterious castle is a UNESCO World Heritage
site.

These are just a few of the many wonderful places to visit in Puglia, each offering a distinct blend of history, culture, and natural
beauty. And while not technically in Puglia, the nearby city of Matera is an absolute must-see, making it a convenient addition to any Puglia itinerary.

How to get here
To get to Puglia, there are several transportation options, including flights and trains:

1. **Flights to Bari or Brindisi**: Bari and Brindisi are the two main airports in Puglia, both offering domestic and international flights.
Travelers can find direct flights from major cities in Italy and other European destinations. Airlines like Alitalia, Ryanair, EasyJet,
and others operate regular flights to Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) and Brindisi Airport (BDS).

2. **Trains from Milan or Rome**: Puglia is well-connected by train from major cities like Milan and Rome.
Two main train operators,
Italo and Frecciargento/Frecciabianca, offer high-speed train services to Bari and Brindisi.

**Italo**: Italo is a private high-speed train operator in Italy, offering modern and comfortable trains. It connects Milan and Rome to
Bari with several daily departures. The journey from Rome to Bari takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, while the journey from Milan
to Bari takes around 6 to 7 hours.

**Frecciargento/Frecciabianca**: These are operated by Trenitalia, the national railway company of Italy. They also provide highspeed train services from Rome and Milan to Bari and Brindisi. The travel time is similar to Italo’s trains.
Travelers can choose between these train services based on their schedule preferences and travel budget.

Once in Puglia, there are several other transportation options, such as regional trains and buses, to explore the various cities and
towns within the region. Renting a car is also a popular option for travelers who prefer to have more flexibility and independence
while exploring Puglia’s charming countryside and hidden gems.

Electric car options:
For environmentally-conscious travelers planning a trip from Holland to Puglia, www.lowcarbontravels.nl offers an excellent option.
With a fleet of electric cars available for rent, you can explore Puglia while minimizing your carbon footprint. These electric vehicles
are not only eco-friendly but also allow you to enjoy the scenic routes at your own pace. What’s more, many accommodations in
Puglia offer charging facilities for these electric cars, making it convenient and hassle-free to recharge during your stay. Choose low
carbon travels for a sustainable and responsible way to experience the wonders of Puglia.

Accomodation: 1: Borgo Rita Valle
Nestled amidst the olive groves and vineyards of Puglia, Borgo Rita Valle is a true oasis of tranquility and sustainability. This eco-friendly retreat, offered by www.lowcarbontravels.nl, showcases a harmonious blend of traditional charm and modern comforts.

The historic buildings have been lovingly restored to preserve their authenticity while incorporating sustainable practices.
Guests at Borgo Rita Valle can immerse themselves in the serene countryside, enjoying leisurely walks through the scenic landscapes or relaxing by the refreshing swimming pool. For those who seek to explore the region, the electric cars available for rent provide a low-carbon way to discover Puglia’s hidden gems.
One of the standout features of Borgo Rita Valle is its commitment to sustainability. With a focus on renewable energy, eco-friendly practices, and locally sourced produce, this charming accommodation allows travelers to make a positive impact on the environment without compromising on comfort. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an eco-conscious base to explore the wonders of Puglia, Borgo Rita Valle offers an unforgettable experience that resonates with both the heart and the environment. Discover the true essence of
sustainable hospitality and immerse yourself in the authentic beauty of Puglia at this remarkable low-carbon destination.

Want to stay here? Click on the link:
https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/valle-rita

Accommodation: 2: Tenuta Donn’anna is an eco-friendly retreat located in Puglia, Italy. It is offered by www.lowcarbontravels.nl. The agriturismo is
surrounded by olive groves and vineyards and offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The traditional stone
buildings have been lovingly restored and exude a sense of history and connection to the land. Guests are welcomed with open
arms and the warm hospitality of the hosts creates a welcoming atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. The
accommodation boasts a generously sized pool for moments of relaxation. Guests can indulge in delectable farm-to-table cuisine, savoring the flavors of locally sourced produce and organic ingredients. The commitment to sustainability extends to energy-efficient facilities, ensuring a low-carbon footprint. Tenuta Donnanna’s strategic location provides easy access to charming towns and scenic landscapes in Puglia. Guests can opt for electric car rentals, embarking on eco-friendly journeys to discover the region’s hidden treasures while preserving the environment.

Want to stay here? Click on the link:
https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/tenuta-donnanna

Accomodation 3 Masseria Capece:
Masseria Capece is an ancient Masseria located in the countryside of Cisternino, Puglia. The Masseria has an ancient oil mill dating back to 1846 with wooden presses, cast iron and steel with a perfectly functioning millstone. The Masseria has a beautiful citrus grove of 5000 meters with more than 40 varieties of citrus fruits, vegetables and mixed vegetation that we serve at our breakfasts as genuine fruit or delicious homemade jams. The Masseria consists of eight suites restored for a total of 32 beds, equipped with private garden, kitchen, air conditioning and Wi-fi. The nearest beach is 6 km away and we have an agreement with a wonderful beach club with a pool Viar Beach Club, 15 km away. We do not have a fixed catering service but we organize traditional dinners on request. There are many activities that can be undertaken: cycling, hiking, horse riding, museums.

Sustainability