Italy’s Southern Charm: A Road Trip Around Puglia

After an indulgent hotel breakfast, get set for a private tour of the sassi. As you wander through the winding streets and alleys of Matera, you’ll be transported back in time to a bygone era. Honey-toned limestone hermitages, monasteries, houses and more are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the town’s inhabitants. Byzantine monks settled here during the Middle Ages, decorating their churches with intricate carvings and frescoes which have retained their beauty over centuries. You will discover, in the company of your expert guide, how the architecture beautifully blends with its natural environment.

The journey to Mattinata takes around two hours and 45 minutes. Settle in for two nights staying at the foot of the ‘Monte Sacro’, a hill known in antiquity as 'Dodoneo' and on which there is an ancient temple. The original village, a short distance from the sea, is lined with small narrow streets, old stone steps and historic buildings aplenty. It’s above all a popular seaside resort, and your hotel is ideally located with idyllic views of the beach. The rooms are comfortable and classic, the ambience is serene, and the service is excellent.

Just half-an-hour’s drive from Mattinata, Gargano National Park is a hidden gem that offers a special blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its rugged coastline, pristine beaches and lush forests, it’s a paradise for bird lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. As you explore the park’s winding trails and hidden coves, you’ll be treated to breath-taking views of the Adriatic and the surrounding countryside. But Gargano is more than just a natural wonderland. The park also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with ancient ruins, medieval castles and charming fishing villages such as Vieste and Peschici dotting the landscape. Keen foodies can also choose to take a sojourn to the towering cliffs of Monte Sant'Angelo and taste the delicious local cheese, caciocavallo, during a visit to a local producer.

Take a scenic two-hour-and-15-minute drive to Noci, where you’ll be staying in a 17th-century masseria – a historic farmhouse which has been converted into a welcoming guesthouse. The buildings have been restored with great care and attention to detail to ensure guests enjoy modern comforts while experiencing the warm and authentic atmosphere of the old stone houses. The restaurant serves delicious local cuisine and the pool is an inviting place to cool off after your journey. What’s more, there are beautiful beaches just a short drive away and hiking trails surround the extensive olive groves.

Enjoy a private tour of Ostuni, also known as the ‘White City’ of Puglia. The Citta Bianca is exceptionally beautiful set atop the cliffs and its winding streets are steeped in history. One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the town’s stunning Gothic cathedral, which dates back to the 15th century. With its intricate frescoes and soaring arches, it’s a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance architecture. An olive oil tasting completes the tour, but keen foodies can complement this with an optional cooking class in a local masseria.

Discover the lesser-known villages of the Itria Valley, including Locorotondo’s pretty centre, which is characterised by narrow, winding streets and white-washed housed with conical roofs, known as trulli. Then head to livelier Martina Franca, renowned for its Baroque architecture and vibrant music festival. Finally, Ceglie Messipica is one of the oldest villages in Italy. Lose yourself in its historic alleys and piazze, before visiting the hilltop Catello Ducale which dominates the town, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Drive for one-hour-and-45-minutes to Lecce and check-in for three nights in another authentic and welcoming masseria. Surrounded by olive groves, vineyards and gardens, it offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet only a few steps from the sea. In addition to relaxing and enjoying the excellent home-cooked food, there are also plenty of activities to do in and around the masseria, such as walks and bike rides in the countryside, or visiting local towns and attractions and the beaches of the Salento peninsula.

While staying nearby, we recommend exploring the historic city of Lecce. Known for its stunning Baroque architecture, it’s fondly nicknamed the ‘Florence of the South’ and is a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with beautiful buildings. One of the most famous landmarks is the Basilica di Santa Crocce, a Baroque masterpiece with an intricately carved façade. The city is bursting with architectural delights, including ornate churches, palaces and public buildings, all built from the local golden limestone.

Today, you’ll get to enjoy a glimpse behind-the-scenes of beautiful Lecce. Led by a friendly local guide, you’ll wander through walk the squares and along the most iconic streets of Barocco Leccese. Along the way, you’ll be invited to taste the mouth-watering Apulian pastries, just like a local. This is an informal walk around the city in the company of a city-dweller who knows its hidden gems as well as its famous sights.