STAY
I had a friend tell me that the further south you go in Puglia, the more magical it gets and she wasn’t wrong. I picked two places to explore over about a week and it was perfect. But truth be told, Puglia steals a piece of your heart, so be prepared to want to stay for longer. Staying at a masseria is a must when visiting Puglia. I found a beautiful family owned one to stay at, just outside of Ostuni and it was bliss. Think rolling olive groves, nothing but the sound of cicadas, laden fig trees and an abundance of tomatoes. For a little more luxury with the beautiful southern Italian hospitality, Masseria Montelauro is a beautiful boutique hotel in Otranto.
TO DO
Eat all the delicious summer fruit, explore the coves and beaches along the coast, ask the locals where their favourite beach is and go there. Drink iced coffees and aperols everyday. Enjoy a siesta, and repeat. A car is a must when visiting Puglia, driving from beach to beach and exploring the beautiful countryside was my favourite part.
DINE
The produce in Puglia is amazing, a real highlight for me was cooking with so many amazing fresh things from the garden. However, Agriturismo da Marta in Lecce is somewhere that everyone needs to experience. It’s profound, a beautiful family of women who have been serving food for over 40 years out of their home. Founded by a woman named Marta, now 92 her daughters run the farm and restaurant. Everything is grown and made there or within a few kilometres. No menus, no changes, just what they are growing and making. It is truly beautiful.
A FEW FAVOURITE SPOTS TO VISIT:
OsTUNI
Spiaggia di Torre Pozelle, there is a whole stretch of coast with little beaches and coves along it.
Spiaggia Costa Merlata, a lovely little sandy beach. But if you keep walking along the coast, there are beautiful rock faces to jump off and the water is amazing.
OTRANTO
Explore the port
Cala Dell Acquaviva – top tip, go earlier in the day!
Words: Ruby Hamilton
Photography: Ruby Hamilton
