Secrets of Puglia
Resort: | Secrets of Puglia |
Operator: | |
Destination: | Europe, Italy |
Price From: | £1959.00 |
OverviewThe enchanting Italian region of Puglia is famous for its historic cities, quaint fishing villages and (of course) its exquisite cuisine. On this round trip, we’ll delve into the area’s many splendours – from Naples to Martina Franca, Lecce, Gallipoli, Bari and back again – touring historic towns, discovering local traditions and indulging in a wine tasting or two along the way. Inclusions
ItineraryDay 1 Naples – Andria – Martina FrancaAfter meeting the group in vibrant Naples, well board the mini-coach and hit the road to Andria where a local expert will reveal how mozzarella and burrata are made. Well have the chance to taste both delicious cheeses before we move on to Martina Franca for tonights welcome dinner. Day 2 Martina Franca – Alberobello – Locorotondo – Martina FrancaOur first stop of the day will be Alberobello a UNESCO World Heritage site thats famous for its charming cone-topped trulli. After learning more about the limestone buildings on a walking tour, well move on to the beautiful countryside of Locorotondo where theres a wine tasting session in store for us at a local vineyard. After raising a glass or two, well return to Martina Franca for the evening. Day 3 Martina Franca – Altamura – Matera – Martina FrancaThis morning well explore the medieval streets of the quaint town of Altamura with a local guide with an included bread tasting session at a quaint local bakery to round off our visit. Then: its back on the road as we travel onwards to the mesmerising city of Matera. Well delve into Materas fascinating history on a tour of the ancient Sassi before heading back to the hotel for some relaxation time. Day 4 Martina Franca – Monopoli – Ostuni – LecceToday will begin with a visit to the picturesque seaside town of Monopoli where well explore the old town centre and harbour on a walking tour. After that, well move on to Ostuni, the White City. While were here, well learn the secrets behind some authentic cookery techniques at a cooking demonstration (and lunch!) in a traditional masseria. After a busy day, well rest our heads in Lecce. Day 5 Lecce – Gallipoli – LecceWell embark on a guided tour of magnificent Lecce this morning where well take some time to explore impressive sandstone buildings, hidden piazzas and winding alleyways. Then: onwards to the historic fishing port of Gallipoli, where weve an appointment to keep at an underground olive mill museum not to mention a walking tour ticking off the likes of the Greek fountain and the cathedral. Day 6 Lecce – Polignano a Mare – BariToday well say goodbye to Lecce and set a course for the Pearl of the Adriatic: Polignano a Mare, where well explore the old town centre and beautiful terraces on a walking tour. This afternoon well trade Polignano for Bari, where a local guide will show us the hotspots and educate us on the local cuisine as we taste some of the citys excellent street food. What better way to make ourselves at home? Day 7 Bari – Minervino Murge – BariNext stop: the pretty hilltop town of Minervino Murge. While here, well have the chance to join a basket making workshop before paying a visit to a private wine cellar museum where well be lucky enough to taste some of the produce in an underground grotto. After that, its back to Bari for the grand finale: a farewell dinner and wine pairing, which will be made all the more special by a traditional folk dance performance. Day 8 Bari – Magherita di Savoia – NaplesWeve one final stop to make: the Margherita di Savoia natural saltworks. The largest natural saltworks reserve in Europe, this breathtaking place is the perfect spot from which to spot many bird species. As we come full circle this afternoon, the tour will end. |