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Travel + Leisure
a day ago
- Travel + Leisure
Italy's 'Most Overlooked' Coast Is a Quiet Alternative to Cinque Terre—With Hidden Caves, Beachside Villages, and Michelin Dining
Over the past decade, the southern Italian region of Puglia (the heel of the boot) has come onto the radar in a major way, but most visitors gravitate toward the Valle d'Itria, a series of towns including Alberobello, Ostuni, Monopoli, and Polignano a Mare, where many of the region's luxury hotels are concentrated. Some travelers head further south, into the Salento Peninsula, which is known for some of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Few venture north of Bari to the Gargano Peninsula, a promontory jutting out into the Adriatic Sea, which is home to the most extensive national park in Italy. And according to International Living, the Gargano Peninsula is a perfect alternative for Cinque Terre. "Encompassing mountain trails and five seaside towns, like the Cinque Terre, it also holds UNESCO World Heritage status and a national park," Valerie Fortney-Schneider, an International Living contributor, told Travel + Leisure . "With blissful vistas, rocky towns tumbling to the sea, sprawling beaches, hidden coves, and loads of outdoor adventure, the Gargano may actually surpass the Cinque Terre in offerings and variety of beaches and diversity of scenery. What's better is that it doesn't draw the crowds, except in August." Zoe Shapiro, a T+L A-List Travel Advisor and CEO of Stellavision Travel, who organizes trips to the area, said this region is a hidden gem. 'I would call it the most overlooked coast in Italy, because the coastline is absolutely spectacular," Shapiro told T+L. The turquoise waters around the Gargano Shapiro wouldn't call Gargano a dupe for the much more colorful—and much more crowded—Cinque Terre, she would; however, absolutely recommend visiting the peninsula on a road trip in Puglia or through southern Italy, starting in Rome or Naples and crossing the Apennine Mountains. According to Shapiro, the best way to experience the coast, which is full of hidden coves and caves, is to go for a boat ride with a local captain who knows the area well. 'I think about times where I've done that in Ischia or Capri and seen different coves and caves, and they're beautiful. The ones in Gargano exceed that,' Shapiro said. 'The captain I was with in my little dinghy would pull up right onto the pebble beach within a huge, cavernous cave, and I would hop out and go swimming. It was just amazing.' She recommended staying at Gattarella, a family-run resort with a private beach club about a 10-minute drive from the historic center of Vieste, one of the most charming towns in the area. This medieval village was built onto a cliff overlooking the sea, where you can get lost in the narrow lanes amidst crumbling buildings where laundry dangles on clotheslines. On the beach, you can admire a massive limestone sea stack called Pizzomunno and learn about the romantic legend attached to it. In the charming village of Peschici, Shapiro recommended dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant Porta di Basso and the more casual Al Trabucco da Mimì. 'It's an old trabucco [fishing hut] that has been converted into a restaurant, so you're literally eating while hovering over the water,' she says. Another town Shapiro recommended visiting is Monte Sant'Angelo, which is designated one of the Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy) and is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites. According to legend, this is where the Archangel Michael set out on his pilgrimage and the town originates in the cave that houses a shrine dedicated to him.
Forbes
04-08-2025
- Forbes
Villas, Castles And Trulli: Puglia's Best Private Stays
Perched on the sunny heel of Italy's boot, Puglia is where Italians go on vacation, lured by powder‑white hill towns, silvery olive groves and fishing towns clinging to the coastline. A villa rental here—whether a freshened-up farmhouse, classic castello or traditional trullo—provides a true local perspective on the area and is a surprisingly affordable option for larger groups. Trullo Agathea Trullo Agathea Amid the low hills and ancient olive groves of Puglia's Valle d'Itria is a unique architectural structure found nowhere else in the country: the trullo. With whitewashed stone dwalls and distinctive cone-shaped roofs made from stacked limestone, trulli (plural of trullo) are little Puglian marvels rooted in centuries of rural history. Orginally designed to be easily dismantled and reassembled as a means to avoid property taxes, trulli were typically built by farmers and laborers with just stones and no mortor. The unique design had other benifits too, as trulli are ingeniously suited to the hot southern climate, keeping inhabitants cool all summer long. Over time, the quirky appearance and brilliant functionality made trulli synonymous with the Puglia's identity, especially around the UNESCO-listed town of Alberobello. Staying in a trullo isn't just about aesthetics though, it's about experiencing the region in an only-in-Puglia fashion. Trullo Agathea, only available through The Thinking Traveller, offers one of the finest interpretations of this ancient building style. Located just outside Cisternino, one of Puglia's most atmospheric hill towns known for its excellent butchers, Trullo Agathea blends historical charm and modern comfort. Designed to sleep up to four guests in two bedrooms, each with their own en suite bathroom, the villa unfolds across a small cluster of conical-roofed buildings that have been carefully restored to retain their original features. Thick stone walls provide natural insulation, keeping interiors cool even in high summer, while vaulted ceilings and softly curved walls lend a sense of cocooned tranquility to each room. The decor is rustic with wood furniture, local ceramics and natural linens in a palette of whites, creams and olive greens. What makes Trullo Agathea particularly special is the surrounding landscape. The home is nestled within a well-tended olive grove, thriving with ancient trees, Mediterranean herbs, and even a few fruit trees. A pergola-shaded dining area makes the most of the peaceful views and is ideal for long, lazy lunches. The private pool is perfectly proportioned and shaded terraces invite afternoon snoozes or sunset spritzes. Location-wise, Trullo Agathea is ideal for exploring the region: It's just outside of Cisternino, and the towns of Ostuni, Martina Franca, and Locorotondo are all within easy reach, while beaches along the Adriatic coast are also within reach. Trullo Agathea by The Thinking Traveller sleeps up to 4 and starts at $654 per night ($4,583 per week). Masseria La Residenza Masseria La Residenza The Masseria Masterpiece: Masseria La Residenza Like a trullo, a masseria (plural masserie) is a fortified farmhouse traditionally found in Puglia's countryside. Orginally built to serve as a rural home and community hub for landowners, workers and even livestock, most masserie in Puglia date back to the 16th through 19th centuries. Today, many have been beautifully restored into stylish retreats—both as hotels and private homes. Masseria La Residenza was built in the early 1800s, though it was recently refurbished to include all the creature comforts needed. Set among almond and olive groves just outside the town of Fasano, the villa inclues a social-media-ready L-shaped swimming pool; manicured gardens; and multiple al fresco dining spots under pergolas and on terraces. There's also a fantastic outdoor gym. With five beautifully appointed suites dressed with chandeliers, baroque antiques and luxurious headboards, expect high-end vibes and no shortage of comfort. Masseria La Residenza by A&K Villas sleeps up to 10 and starts at $ 21,967 per week ($3,138 per night). Villa Monte Caliolo Villa Monte Caliolo A Modern Marvel: Villa Monte Caliolo Nestled in the heart of Valle d'Itria and a short drive from Carovigno, Ostuni and the Costa Merlata, Villa Monte Caliolo is a very modern take on a masseria. It comfortably sleeps eight across two buildings with four bedrooms (two en‑suite and two sharing a spacious shower room). Interiors are minimalist and elegant, with locally hewn furniture and natural materials. Outside, the infinity pool is the star of the show, overlooking olive groves and glimpses of the blue Adriatic. A team is available to organize excursions, meals or wellness services tailored to your tastes. Villa Monte Caliolo by The Luxury Travel Book sleeps up to 8 and starts at $743 per night ($5,201 per week). Casino Doxi Stracca Casino Doxi Stracca An Old‑World Wonder: Casino Doxi Stracca It doesn't get more old-world glamorous than Casino Doxi Stracca. An aristocratic 18th-century villa set within five acres of landscaped gardens, groves and vineyards, Casino Doxi Stracca is steeped in history and undeniably luxurious after a sensitive recent restoration. Original architectural features include a chapel, frescoed ceilings and grand reception rooms, but it's the unbelievable 59-foot-long pool that will have sunworshippers besotted. In addition to the Instagram-ready pool, there's also a plunge pool and plenty of shaded areas. It accommodates up to 14 guests in seven bedrooms, so there's no shortage of space and privacy, especially for multigenerational gatherings or for groups of friends. There's a well-equipped kitchen for self-catering, but the concierge services can also arrange for private chefs, cooking classes and local wine tastings. Casino Doxi Stracca by The Thinking Traveller sleeps up to 14 and starts at $10,413 ($1,487 per night). (Note: Casino Doxi Stracca also has a reduced price avaible upon request, during the shoulder season, for groups up to 8, needing only 4 bedrooms.) Castello di Caprarica Castello di Caprarica A Classic Castello: Castello di Caprarica For modern day princesses and princes, try a bone fide castle: Castello di Caprarica is an early 16th-century castle near Tricase, blending architectural grandeur and noble lineage with contemporary comfort. Sleeping up to 22 of your best friends, it's perfect for large groups seeking something opulent yet livable. Indoors the luxury continues with original vaulted ceilings, chapel spaces and elegant bedrooms with historical detailings. Other than its good looks, a big sell is the location as it's within walking access to the town center of Tricase, with plenty of restaurants, shops and bars. It's also in close proximity to the sand beaches of the Ionian coast and the baroque beauty of Lecce, one of Puglia's most iconic cities. Castello di Caprarica by The Thinking Traveller sleeps up to 22 and starts at $10,539 ($1,505 per night).
Daily Mail
17-07-2025
- Daily Mail
Tourist blasts major holiday destination for being messy and full of rubbish
An avid traveller has ignited fierce debate online after he revealing his experience of a popular Italian holiday destination was overshadowed by 'chaos' and 'streets full of trash'. Marek Pukas, a travel content creator from Borchów, Poland, embarked on a solo adventure to explore the world earlier this year and regularly shares the highlights of his travels in videos posted to Instagram. The jetsetter enthusiastically showcased his whirlwind trip to Italy this month, where he sipped wine in Bari, marvelled at the whitewashed stone huts in Alberobello and observed Renaissance art and architecture in Florence. Despite enjoying the majority of his five-day break, he admitted he was left disillusioned by Naples, as shown in footage uploaded to his page @ In the clip, which has since amassed over half a million views, Marek sported a glum expression while walking through the city's cobbled streets. He panned his camera to show pavements, tree planters and outdoor restaurant areas strewn with discarded bottles, food packaging, clothing, shoes and plastic bags. In an accompanying caption, Marek wrote: 'Italy has blown me away so many times - cities full of beauty, charm, and care. But Naples… took me by surprise. Not in the good way. 'I've seen a lot of places across this country, but I've never seen streets so full of trash. It was messy, chaotic, and honestly, hard to enjoy. This isn't about throwing shade - it's just my honest experience. 'I know every city has its challenges, and maybe I caught Naples on a bad day. But I hope things can improve, because this city deserves better.' The clip has since sparked a heated discussion among 700 viewers, with many locals and tourists defending the Italian hotspot, while others felt they could relate to Marek's experience. One person argued: 'I live in London. LONDON is worse than Naples. I wish I could live in Naples,' while another chimed, 'If you don't like it, don't travel. Stay in your country. You only filmed the worst part of a beautiful, constantly growing city.' A third wrote: 'Why don't you try filming other parts of the city - Chiaia, the Lungomare, Vomero, or even the historic centre itself? 'These dirty corners you're showing are definitely part of Naples, no doubt - but why not also go and film the dirty corners of London, New York, Rome, Milan, Athens, or Madrid? Why don't you do that? Naples is amazing.' However, one Italian viewer hit back: 'Unfortunately it is not just Naples. This is the reality of many towns/villages in south of Italy. People just don't care. This morning i went to the beach and there were leftover bottles of beers and water.' A tourist added: 'I'm on an Italian trip, and so far, I have visited Naples, Rome, Florence, and Verona, and Naples was the only city where trash were everywhere, very dirty and smelly. If I have to be honest, it's most likely I wouldn't return there.' Some viewers expressed a more neutral opinion of the city, as one wrote: 'The amount of beauty, breath taking sights, art, theatre in the face of its people are one thing with chaotic streets, noises and smells. Your sense can't remain untouched.' The clip has since sparked a heated discussion among 700 viewers, with many locals and tourists defending the Italian hotspot, while others felt they could relate to Marek's experience A second commented: 'I too was shocked by the dirtiness and chaos of the city! However, if you look past this, it is a city so special, rich in history with unbelievable sites and a unique vibe and energy which is unforgettable!!!' Meanwhile, Europe's most famous holiday hotspots are busier than ever this week - despite anti-tourism protests taking place across the continent. Images show swarms of holidaymakers packed shoulder-to-shoulder and forming huge queues waiting for trains and buses in some of the most beautiful destinations in Italy and Greece. In the Italian village of Varenna - famed for its tiny streets and colourful facades of houses - Brits have complained of crowds so dense they were barely able to reach down to take their phones out of their pockets.
Telegraph
24-06-2025
- Telegraph
The 19 best things to do in Puglia
Puglia, the beach-fringed heel of Italy's boot, offers lazy sun-drenched days and long limoncello lunches, leading ineffably to an afternoon nap. Holidays here are punctuated by flavoursome fresh food and ancient olive trees, architecture left by waves of invaders, and boat trips along the coast. This is a place to wander through pine forests on the way to the beach, take a passeggiata around golden-stone piazzas, discover lime-white hilltop towns, or visit a fortified cathedral. Its sights are reminders of its richer past, when lamps were fuelled by olive oil and pirates roamed the coast. All our recommendations below have been hand selected and tested by our resident destination expert to help you discover the best things to do in Puglia. Find out more below, or for more Puglia inspiration, see our guides to the region's best hotels, restaurants, bars and beaches. Find things to do by type: Best for families Alberobello Wander a storybook town of trulli The best-known site in Puglia is this Unesco-listed, hobbit-like town. Puglia has distinctive cone-roofed trulli dotting its countryside – whitewashed limestone houses with witches-hat drystone roofs. Rolling off the tongue, and meaning 'beautiful tree', Alberobello is the only place there is an entire town of these. It's the most popular tourist spot in the entire region, with coachloads of visitors stopping by on whirlwind tours of Europe. Insider tip: Touristy it might be, but Alberobello is still a fantastical place, especially if you get off the main drag and into the backstreets. Get here early in the morning or stay overnight to see the town at its most atmospheric.
Independent Singapore
15-05-2025
- Sport
- Independent Singapore
Casper van Uden wins Giro d'Italia stage four in Lecce, leading an all-Dutch podium
Casper van Uden successfully gained his first-ever Grand Tour stage win with a sprint finish on stage four of the Giro d'Italia, alongside leading an all-Dutch podium. The Picnic PostNL rider went beyond fellow Dutchmen Olav Kooij (Visma-Lease a Bike) and Maikel Zijlaard (Tudor) in a fierce race to win the competition. In a social media post, van Uden shared the achievement to the public and captioned it as 'WE did it!🍾 Massive shout out to the boys for their hard work and all the other people involved. You never win alone 🫶 #giroditalia' Netizens celebrated Casper's win with praise and admiration, calling him a 'golden boy' and saying the achievement was well deserved. One commented, 'Golden boy delivers! 🔥🥇' Highlights of the race This marked the event's return to Italy after three opening stages in Albania. The riders needed to go through a 189-kilometre route from Alberobello to Lecce, which was ideal for sprinters. Spain's Francisco Muñoz (Team Polti VisitMalta) broke away from the pack early on. At about 125km to go, there was an unfortunate crash in the main group of riders, which involved Mads Pedersen, Tom Pidcock, and Nickolas Zukowsky. Zukowsky, who was racing his first Giro d'Italia, had to exit the race with a suspected broken collarbone. In the final stretch, teams worked together to get their sprinters into position. With this, Casper van Uden made his move at just the right moment and sprinted to the finish, winning his first stage since June 2024. ' I didn't do it alone – we did it with the whole team. All the boys here and all the staff here, and in HQ as well. They did super work. I didn't have to do anything until 200m to go. I had a good sprint and went for it. We've done a really good job all season with the leadouts,' the athlete said of his victory. He added, 'I knew I had to just follow Bram [Welten] and the boys – they did a super good job and I'm really happy to give them something back. I'm not surprised, and I know all the boys have a lot of belief in me.' Van Uden's win is a big boost of confidence for his team, Picnic-PostNL, as they fight to stay in the World Tour. The Dutch team is at risk of being relegated, so the stage victory is very important at this crucial time. Moreover, Mads Pedersen (Lidl-Trek) leads, having seven seconds ahead of Primoz Roglic (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe) in the overall standings. Mathias Vacek, Pedersen's teammate, is in third place, 14 seconds behind.
