P U G L I A
Puglia, pronounced “pool-ya” (the G is silent), is located on the southern peninsula of Italy surrounded by the Adriatic and Ionian Seas and is one of the richest archaeological regions of the mediterranean where you’ll find a mix of white-walled cities, Baroque architecture, and some of the best sandy beaches in mainland Italy. With the peninsula’s long coastline and rich heritage as a fishing region, seafood is a staple in Pugliése cuisine, one that is known for being centered around locally grown ingredients and seasonality. Olive oil, food and wine are integral to the region’s identity.
For the Free Day (Friday, Oct 14th): Besides wandering the white-walled city of Ostuni, we suggest you check out the neighboring city of Lecce. We found it to be really beautiful and worth the 55 minute drive from Ostuni. (Note: Very cool town. Get a preview of the craft cocktails for our wedding at the brick & mortar cocktail bar Quanto Basta). About 38 minutes north of Ostuni is Polignano a Mare, a beautiful town known for its beaches and Ponte dei Lapilli cove. Aside from that, there are tons of beaches (if the weather permits), boat rides to caves, wineries to visit, and more. Or…slip into il dolce far niente and master the Italian art of doing nothing.
Here are some travel guides for Puglia:
https://coveteur.com/puglia-travel-guide
https://www.cntraveller.com/article/puglia-travel-guide
https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/southern-italy-road-trip
