Apulia

Apulia

An ancient region of extraordinary beauty, Apulia is a particularly fascinating combination of nature, history, tradition, taste and spirituality.

Famous for the beauty of its sea and beaches, Apulia is a destination for a large number of tourists from all over the world, who want to enjoy its natural beauty and landscape but also discover its extraordinary cultural and architectural heritage. There is really so much to explore!

Located in the heel of the Italian "boot", the region has 784 km of coastline, characterised by sandy beaches, pebble coves and flat rocks that disappear into the blue of its magnificent sea. There are beaches for all tastes. One of the most beautiful is the beach of Pescoluse, also known as the Maldives of Salento because of its similarity to the exotic beaches of the Indian ocean. Other beaches include: Baia di Torre dell'Orso, an exquisite stretch of golden sand framed by green maritime pines, and the delightful little pebble beach at Baia di Porto Selvaggio.

Nature lovers can also enjoy the Gargano National Park with the wild Umbrian Forest and the Murgia karst plateau, another wonderful protected area rich in caves, sanctuaries, defence fortifications, churches and rocky settlements. Another place not to be missed is the marine reserve of Torre Guaceto, where uncontaminated stretches of Mediterranean scrub give way to splendid coves, and the wide dolinas of Altamura.

In addition to its natural beauty, Apulia offers visitors considerable historical and artistic attractions. Certainly worth a visit is Lecce, the Baroque capital of Salento, also known as the "Florence of the South". It boasts a marvellous historical centre with a valuable artistic and monumental heritage.

Also of interest are Bari and its charming old town characterised by narrow and winding streets, and Alberobello, a beautiful village in the heart of the Itria Valley famous for its trulli, typical and unusual limestone houses.