Puglia is full of extraordinary corners of paradise, with charming landscapes that you’ll never want to stop enjoying. The coastline – along both the Ionic and Adriatic coasts – is well looked after thanks to the many marine reserves and protected areas. Explore these rural areas on foot or on bike, between sand dunes with Mediterranean vegetation, and ancient olive trees. The sea with its colourful seabed is waiting for you!
It’s impossible to resist the crystal-clear waters of Puglia. Jump into these pristine waters that span from green to azure, creating an unmatched colour palette.
Puglia’s vast areas of countryside has a wonderful variety of flora. Biodiversity is the main word! Some of the species are typical of the Mediterranean, whilst others are specific to the region.
Puglia’s olive trees are a symbol of the region and have thousands of years of history, as well as incredible beauty and value. From these ancient plants the liquid gold – extra virgin olive oil – is extracted.
The wine-growing area in Puglia is vast – mainly found in the central provinces of Foggia and Barletta-Andria-Trani. Red wine grapes are the most grown in the area.
Fichi d’India – or prickly pears – grow all over the countryside in Puglia. Together with olive trees, they are one of the most characteristic symbols of Puglia, especially Salento.
Capers are particularly grown in Gargano. These capers are very tasty thanks to their strong and bold flavour.
Samphire, wild fennel, rosemary, thyme: the edible wild herbs in Puglia really are a gift from mother nature. They are an integral part of Puglia’s traditional gastronomy.
We all know that the beaches in Puglia are incredible. But what about the natural scenery? With woods, lakes, underground rivers, marshes with thousands of birds, and deep canyons, there are so many natural marvels to discover in Puglia that are perfect to visit even in Spring and Autumn when the weather is still great.
The area’s fauna is typical Mediterranean scrub brush, that’s able to bear the high summer temperatures and survive in not particularly dense woodlands. There are also many interesting varieties of birds.
You can catch sight of foxes in the Gargano Park, even during the day! They are present from the coast to the mountains, and even in the suburbs of the cities.
In March/April of every year, the Lesser Kestrel – one of the smallest falcons in Europe – migrates from far away countries and arrives in Puglia where they find the perfect habitat to nest.
Dancing flamingoes at sunset is one of the most incredible sights imaginable. Make sure you visit the Monaci or Margherita di Savoia salt pans so you don’t miss this beautiful experience.
Organise a tour on a catamaran run by Jonian Dolphin Conversation in the Gulf of Taranto, where you can easily catch sight of these wonderful creatures.
Puglia is one of the regions in Italy with the most turtle nests. One of the most important areas is the Torre Guaceto reserve, where there is a rescue centre for marine turtles.
Do you need a hand to find out where the most beautiful places in Puglia are? Have a look at our map!