3 Top Reasons To Visit Puglia

Puglia, located at the ‘heel of the boot’ of Italy, is rapidly becoming one of the country's most popular destinations, and for good reason.

Pristine beaches, verdant rolling hills, charming villas, warm local hospitality, breathtakingly beautiful natural vistas, ancient architecture, cultural and historical treasures, and a cornucopia of nature’s bounty are the staples of every region in Italy. From Tuscany’s vineyards to the lemon groves of the Amalfi Coast, there is no end to the pleasures and rewards you can discover. Exploring Puglia, however, offers experiences that are unique to the region and cannot be found anywhere else in the country.

Listed below are a few reasons exploring Puglia should be on everyone’s wish list.

Massaria

As the region passed from feudal to modern times, the working farmhouses and country estates that had been fortified to repel invaders fell into disuse or disrepair, and many were abandoned and destroyed. Fortunately, some of these farms have been restored to working order, with buildings repurposed into comfortable alternative accommodation for tourists. Ranging from simple and rustic to over-the-top and opulent, these accommodations, called masserie, offer travellers exploring Puglia a chance to experience life on a working farm - some even offer cooking classes for that extra homey and authentic touch.

Among the most famous masserie in Puglia are the Masseria San Domenico in Fasano, which was once the home of the Knights of Malta, and the Masseria Torre Coccaro, an ancient farmhouse converted to a five-star hotel.

Trullo

When exploring Puglia, a visit to the trulli is definitely a must. Predominantly popular during the 19th century, trulli are dry stone huts with conical roofs, which are unique to this region. Originally built as temporary storehouses for harvests or dwellings for farm labourers, a number of these trulli have been restored and serve as either as B&Bs or cottages for travellers. Many of these restored trulli can be found in the Monti district in Alberobello.

The White City

Otsuni is one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. The town is known as ‘Citta? Bianca’, or ‘The White City’, as almost all the buildings are painted white. It is nestled across three lush green hills, giving it an almost ethereal appearance. In addition to ancient Baroque buildings, such as the Cathedral of Otsuni and the palazzos Vescovile and del Seminario, the high defensive city walls bring back the glory of medieval times.

For a small seaside town, Otsuni loves to party, with several festivals being held throughout the year, especially in summer. The most popular festival is the Feast of San Biagio, held in February, during which thousands of devotees attend mass in the Santuario. Other attractions are the massive hole in the church grounds, considered by speleologists to be biggest underground cavity in the region, and Otsuni’s many beautiful beaches. The beach at Quarto di Monte even features a night bar, if you’re up to some socialising after dark.

Carolyn Spinks is COO of ABTOI - The Association of British Travel Organisers to Italy. If you’re planning on exploring Puglia 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.