Italy is a beach lover’s paradise. Crystal waters tickle Capri’s shores. Towns seem to grow, like mushrooms, from the Cinque Terre coast. And, Sorrento’s sun-soaked cliffs plunge into bright blue seas. Surrounded on three sides by water, Italy is home to enough beaches to fill a lifetime.
But where do Italians go when they’re craving salty breezes? Most Americans would be surprised that it’s not the Amalfi Coast. Sun-loving Italians head further south – to the stunning shores of Puglia.
In early October, I was lucky enough to travel to the heel of Italy’s boot. It’s home to sky-blue seas and an untouched coastline. Puglia is one of my favorite travel secrets. You won’t find hordes of tourists here. Nope, this is Southern Italy minus the masses.
Puglia brims with pristine coves, sandy beaches and charming villages. You’ll nibble burrata cheese and taste fresh-pressed olive oil. After spending a week here, I couldn’t help but wonder: why go to the Amalfi Coast when you have all this to yourself?
No crowds. No hassle. No mediocre meals. Just sun and seafood and genuine Italian hospitality. Below you’ll find my 4 favorite gems in Puglia:
GROTTA DELLA POESIA Puglia is home to some of Italy’s most gorgeous coastline. Cliffs poke out of the sea here, creating natural grottoes. These grotte are stone caverns of coves, protected from the wind and tides. They’re the perfect place to swim Puglia’s blue-green waters. Located near the small town of Roca Vecchia is the grotto della poesia. Locals dive from the grotto’s stone walls into the cool azure pool below. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day sunning and swimming.
OSTUNI Known as the “white city,” Ostuni is perched atop a hill. Its whitewashed homes seem to glow against the sun-soaked horizon. Medieval details exist around every corner here – from the gate of the palace to the façade of Ostuni’s basilica. Strolling its winding stone streets, you’ll drink in spectacular views of the green valley below and the Mediterranean Sea. Pause in the main square for a refreshing gelato or try focaccia at a nearby bakery.
GALLIPOLI The city of Gallipoli means “beautiful city” in Greek. And, for good reason! Gallipoli boasts a medieval fortress, crystal-blue waters and sandy beaches. The city’s historic center is located on an island — ideal for exploring on foot. Baroque architecture meets the Mediterranean in Gallipoli. Nearby, sea lovers can enjoy the pristine beaches of Torre del Pizzo or Punta della Suina. Here, you’ll find some of Italy’s clearest, bluest waters.
OTRANTO Otranto, on Puglia’s east coast, is one of Italy’s loveliest seaside towns. Otranto is famous for light blue water, stone cliffs and charming whitewashed homes. Strolling Otranto’s seaside promenade, you’ll spot fishermen hauling in the day’s catch and sailboats anchored in the bay. Otranto is also home to one of Salento’s sandy beaches. It’s the perfect spot to eat fresh fish and laze the day away by the sea.
Want to learn more about exploring Puglia? Schedule a consultation with me!
Topics: Italy