Pretty Puglia. A very new Italian Experience.

We all know the Italy everybody loves: Liguria with coast cities like Alassio, Genoa, Portofino and the incredible Cinque Terre. Major cities like Milan (not to forget the beautiful lakes further north like Lago di Como and Lago d'Iseo), Florence (and of course the Tuscan countryside), Rome and Naples. Islands like Sardinia, Capri, Sicily, then the super romantic Amalfi Coast. I could continue and continue. But most of us don't usually travel to the very South Eastern end, to the region of Puglia. With the biggest city Bari in the north, there are many further places that are so worth to see. It's a "new" Italy with a long history, a different charm and personality, very friendly people and great food (although that's something you truly find anywhere in this beautiful country...).

A town located some few kilometers away from the Adriatic Coast, once founded by the Messapians, rebuild by the Greek, once very rich, today still picturesque, is Ostuni. The white limestone architecture spreads a Greek charm - chic, yet cool and laid-back with little alleys to get lost during a casual walk, small shops and restaurants on many corners. (O)stunning!

Outside of Ostuni you will find a Palazzo Hotel that makes a stay in Puglia perfect: Hotel Park Novecento Resort. A former private mansion of an (obviously) rich family had been transformed to a hotel already beginning of the 20th century. Today, the Pisano Family runs this hidden gem and - together with a small, lovely team - makes you feel home. Well selected (antique) furniture with treasures here and there, a beautiful park with palm trees, a fountain, cute corners to relax and a pool that seeks its equal. And the best thing of all is: It's affordable! You just need a car to explore the beaches and the region a bit more.

 

 

Destinations for day trips are Brindisi, a harbor town around half an hour south of Ostuni. Furthermore Lecce, Gallipoli, the beaches at the West Coast (e.g. around Porto Cesareo), the beaches at the East Coast (e.g. Lido Sabbia d'Oro or the ones around Ostuni and Monopoli). A highlight and for a reason part of the Unesco World Heritage List is the town of Alberobello. Something you have never seen before, promised! The Trulli houses are remarkable examples of drywall construction with conical roofs that are partly painted with lucky symbols. Bellissimo! Grazie, Puglia, for having me.