We are a well traveled couple in our 70s in good health but not into a lot of climbing or hiking anymore. Looking to spend about two weeks in the Puglia area next May with a car from Rome. Would like suggestions of two or three home bases for day trips, nice hotels or agriturismos, and favorite things to see and do.
Thanks.
Posted by
new york
2013 posts
Although Matera is near the border of Puglia, I would include three nights in that city before moving on to Puglia itself. It's not a terrible drive from Rome, although we do break it up with stays in Basilicata when we drive from there, or from Naples.
For your second stay, I like either the Itria Valley or one of the masserie on the coast, near Savelletri, from which you can drive easily to the towns of the Valley including Ostuni, Alberobello, etc. We always have a car so prefer to stay outside the towns for easy parking.
Third, you might stay close to Lecce so you can visit that city and explore the Salento, including Otranto.
Ann alternative to Salento would be to visit the Gargano and stay in Vieste. We did this a few years ago, after staying in Matera and near Minervino and before driving back to Rome. (Of course, you do not have to drive back to Rome; you could also drop your car in Bari and fly home from there, with connection in Rome or elsewhere)
If you offer a general price range I could suggest a few hotels that I know.
Posted by
32 posts
We match your description (70s, well traveled, not into hiking) and we’ve twice spent 10-14+ days in Puglia, most recently this past late Sept- mid October.
We’ve loved staying in Locorotondo and in Lecce as bases (both times), which give access by car to a number of different towns I highly recommend Masseria Aprile in Locorotondo (book far in advance- we couldn’t get into it this past fall even trying 4+ months in advance) and we loved B& B Centro Storico in Lecce (although it’s little quirky)- great location inside the city gates with nearby street parking.
I’d highly recommend a stay in Matera which is not too far by car from Puglia, in neighboring Basilicata. We loved staying at La Corte dei Pastori in the Sassi. Stay two nights so you can fully experience this magical place and book a walking tour to fully understand it.
If your schedule permits I’d also recommend a couple of days in Bari. We really enjoyed it on this most recent trip, although we didn’t love our hotel. Prices were surprisingly high in Bari for lodging (to our surprise). Be sure and sample focaccia Barese (our favorite was Panificio Fiore) and gelato from Gelateria Gentile. We took a food tour on our first full day which gave a great introduction to the food of Puglia.