All you Need to Know about Traveling in Puglia in Low Season
When you think about Puglia, the first thing that probably comes to mind are stunning beaches that look straight out of the Maldives. In fact, there is even a beach called the Maldives of Salento. Keeping this in mind, it’s only natural that Puglia is perceived as a beach and sun destination. But Puglia has so much more to offer, from stunning white villages to nature, wineries and more.
So keep reading to find out the 5 things you won’t want to miss when traveling in Puglia in low season.
Go hiking in Porto Selvaggio
We’ve talked about Porto Selvaggio as having some of the best beaches in Salento but did you know that this natural park also has stunning hiking trails?
Walk among the pine trails for miles discovering little coves and have a shady picnic under the trees. This park, normally crowded with people in high season, in low season becomes a natural paradise that you won’t want to miss.
“Puglia is Italy’s second largest wine producing region”
Wine Tasting in Puglia
Puglia is Italy’s second largest wine producing region with 25 dominations of origins and as many as 200 different wineries. One of the best areas to visit for wineries is the area surrounding Gioia Del Colle (also famous for its mozzarella) and Manduria where you will find exquisite reds like the Primitivo and the Negroamaro.
While wine tourism is not yet extremely developed, there are definitely some wineries worth visiting.
The biggest and most well-known is without a doubt Polvanera, which you will find at most restaurants when dining in Puglia. If you’re looking for a winery off the beaten track, then head to Masseria Amastuolo Wine Resort in Taranto where you can taste organic award-winning wines.
You can also head to historic winery, Terra Jovia in Gioia Del Colle which dates back to 1788. They are famous for their Primitivo and their Primitivo Reserva, made in cement tanks with no wood contact offering a very characteristic wine.
Visit Lecce
We’ve mentioned many times how much Lecce has to offer. You can check out our article about 5 best things to do in Lecce for some great ideas of what to do in low season. Beyond great food and more than 40 different churches, Lecce has a lot to offer for those visiting Puglia in the off season.
Get Lost Among Pottery in Grottaglie
Grottaglie is a beautiful town that is off the touristic radar. Here is where you find traditional Apulian pottery at reasonable prices. The traditional dish ware is called schizzato which is made by dipping rosemary in paint and drizzling drops of paints on the pottery. It creates a quintessential Apulian effect that is a great momento to bring home from your trip.
Enza Fasano is arguably the most famous of the Grottaglie ceramicists but some of the less famous counterparts will offer a great alternative at very affordable prices.
Village Hop in the Valle d’Itria
Some of Puglia’s most beautiful villages worth visiting are located in Valle d’Itria, or the Itria Valley. You can wander the narrow streets of Ostuni and visit the vintage market and food market on weekends. Or you can head to Ostuni or Martina Franca for a lovely stroll and delicious local food.
Cisternino also offers a quaint city center that is definitely worth a visit. In all of these towns you can check out the traditional Trullli (conical houses) without having to deal with the tourists and Disneyland vibe of Alberobello.
No matter what time of year you go to Puglia, it is always a good time to go. With a mild Mediterranean climate, you are assured to have great weather, great food and a full cultural itinerary that will leave you wanting to come back and visit time and time again.
If you need a place to stay, be sure to check out At the Aia for an authentic Apulian experience.
