Consider a Nature Holiday in Puglia

While often overshadowed by neighbouring tourist powerhouse Tuscany, Puglia is no less worthy a destination for nature-loving visitors to Italy. Much to the contrary; considered the ‘green lung’ of the country, the region offers more than its fair share of greenery, bucolic landscapes and quaint little towns. These aspects may just make it the ideal paradise for those wishing to enjoy a nature-centric holiday.

Tourists wanting to spend as little time as possible inside their Puglia hotels – as comfortable they may be – will find it easy to do. The region offers such a wealth of attractions for lovers of wildlife and the outdoors that very few people looking for an active holiday are likely to be disappointed. Below are just a few of the leisure activities that will take fans of nature away from their Puglia hotels on superb day trips.

Cycleriffic

Cyclo-tourism – in simple terms, a cycling tour of a region – is a perennial favourite among fans of the great outdoors, losing only to hiking in the pantheon of ‘must-dos’ for an activity holiday. Fortunately, for fans of this particular form of tourism, this is one of those regions that offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in a good cycle through country lanes, taking in the sights, smells and natural atmosphere inherent to this type of tour. The region’s cities are also remarkably cycle-friendly, and bikes can easily be rented in a number of locations in the area’s main towns, leaving cycling enthusiasts no excuse not to step out of their Puglia hotels and get some fresh air!

Can You Hear The Dolphins Cry?

Another huge argument in favour of nature buffs leaving the comfort of their Puglia hotels and exploring the region is the dolphin conservation centre at Taranto. Dolphins have long been among the most fascinating animals for humans to gaze upon, and this centre gives visitors the chance to do so in a controlled environment, increasing the chances of actually sighting one of these beautiful mammals. Aside from a very worthy project and cause in its own right, the Jonian Dolphin Conservation Centre asserts itself as one of the region's main nature-centric tourist attractions.

Cave In

Aside from the aforementioned opportunities for a ‘structured’ and themed day out amidst nature, the region also offers keen explorers the chance to visit any number of caves set deep in the local cliffs. And while some of these caves are simply interesting from a geological point of view, others hide surprises – such as the Grotta della Poesia (Poetry Cave), wherein is a beautiful natural swimming pool.

Lovers of the great outdoors are highly unlikely to be disappointed when visiting this delightful region of Italy; it offers plenty of chances to indulge in nature-centric activities, which make for some fantastic days out.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect Puglia hotels we can help. Our handpicked accommodation offers distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.