What better time is there for a romantic getaway?
Puglia may not be known as the go-to romantic destination in Italy, but it is actually full of charming surprises, such as quaint little towns, gorgeous coastline and very tasty cuisine, including fresh fish, delicious figs and of course, olive oil. October is one of the perfect times to visit, as the hustle and bustle that comes with July and August is no longer present, yet the temperature is still warm.
So where should you choose for your romantic getaway in the shapely heel that is Puglia? Here are a couple of suggestions…
One of the most stunning and picturesque towns in all of southern Italy is la città Bianca, or to use its actual name: Ostuni. This ‘white town’, so called because of its beautiful whitewashed houses, has a long and varied history. It creates a truly magnificent sight, as these white buildings are perched majestically on top of a hill. With a gorgeous old town full of narrow back streets, weaving passages and of course, awe-inspiring views over the Adriatic, it’s hard to think of a more serene place to escape to with your loved one. As well as the beauty of the town itself, a number of Blue Flag beaches aren’t too far away either, so get ready to enjoy those incredible sunsets in this peaceful and romantic location.
Looking for somewhere to stay?
Why not stay in a traditional masseria? There are plenty of these charming structures located in the region, offering natural surroundings and a calm atmosphere. Try the Masseria Cervarolo (6km from Ostuni) which has a fresh, young style, complete with a pool, Jacuzzi and the chance to take part in some cooking lessons. Or perhaps you might fancy the Masseria Salinola, which provides a peaceful rustic place to rest your head, surrounded by olive groves and within walking distance from the sea.
A true symbol of Puglia is undoubtedly the trullo: a quaint, cone-roofed little dwelling that was traditionally used as a tax-dodging living solution. A well-known location for spotting these trulli is in the picture postcard town of Alberobello; a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a great place to visit, but can get a little touristy, even in the quieter months. Not far away however, is the town of Locorotondo which, despite having a name which means ‘round’, it isn’t home to any of the typical trulli that you can see in Alberobello. Instead, it is home to whitewashed, narrow and rectangular town houses, which actually seem to evoke Baltic architecture. Known as the ‘balcony on the Valle d’Itria’, it is one of the prettiest towns in Puglia and offers a laid back atmosphere, amazing local pasta dishes and some of the most spectacular, romantic views in the area.
Looking for somewhere to stay?
Sotto le cummerse has charming self-catering rooms in characteristic stone buildings, right in the historic centre of Locorotondo. Or if you are keen on residing in nearby Alberobello, then why not try the design hotel Le Alcove: an oasis of peace with a unique style and privacy guaranteed.
So what are you waiting for? Whisk your loved one away to beautiful, unspoilt Puglia.
These are our suggestions for a romantic getaway, but what about you? Have you come across any charming, romantic places in Puglia?
Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest and stay tuned!