Discovering the Lesser-explored Towns and Villages of Puglia

If you're looking for a location that can give you all the best aspects of Italy in an area filled with natural beauty, a rich archaeological history, the best foods and wines, and a variety of beaches, then head to Puglia. Holidays to the heel and spur of Italy’s peninsula are not only varied and exciting, but it also is a perfect place to explore some lesser-known towns and villages, since fewer people travel to Puglia. Holidays here can open up a delightful world, and you can wander tiny back streets where the orecchiette pasta is still made by hand, and visit vineyards where a whopping 17% of the country’s wine is produced. There is so much for everyone in the lovely areas of Brindisi and Lecce. Towns of Brindisi The province of Brindisi is well suited to those who favour a historical focus. To see some important archaeological sites, first travel to the town of Ceglie Messapica. According to legend, the town was founded by the Pelagasians, who were the ancestors of the ancient Greeks. It served as a military capital for the Messapi people, but was eventually deserted in favour of other areas. The late 1500s saw the castle given to the Sanservino family, who enlarged it greatly. The castle is very well restored and also houses a gallery. After visiting the castle you can stroll along the winding streets between whitewashed houses, popping into the various shops and soaking in the atmosphere that is exactly what you would imagine a sleepy Italian town to be.

The lovely town of Carovigno is another hidden gem of Puglia. Holidays to this region will afford plenty of opportunities to sample the olive oil it is famous for, and this town is an outstanding place to do so. Just nine kilometres from the town is the impressive Serranova Castle, well worth the drive to get there.

Towns of Lecce

After spending time in the province of Brindisi, head south into the very tip of the heel of Puglia. Holidays to this part of the country will take you through the exceptional "Florence of the South", which is the city of Lecce, but some other gems are a little more off the main radar.

Copertino is thought to have been founded in the Middle Ages, and in 1088 a Norman count erected the parish church there. Later, the city changed hands following the marriages of ruling families and today it is mostly known for its excellent rose wine. While you are in this charming town be sure to visit the Copertino Castle; it is one of the largest in the region and was originally built during the Norman period, finally being completed in 1540.

If you have an interest in religious history you should not miss Galatone, near the western coast. Here, you can view the richly decorated Baroque church, Santuario del Crocifisso della Pietà, which was built at the end of the 1600s.

Finally, head to Nardò to explore the cathedral there, which was built around 1000 AD, then round off the day with a swim in the warm waters surrounded by some of the prettiest landscape in the south of Italy.

Carolyn Spinks is COO of ABTOI - The Association of British Travel Organisers to Italy. If you’re looking for the perfect Puglia holidays their LoveItaly website provides destination information, contact details of tour operator members to help you plan the best Italian holiday, ‘insider’ tips, year round special offers and information on everything from beach holidays in Sardinia, cycling in Sicily, to a wedding or honeymoon in Tuscany.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.