Italian Legacy - Puglia Holidays - Discovering Italy's Hidden Treasures

Many people taking a second trip to Italy are opting for less tourist-oriented destinations, and, according to travel expert Ylenia Sambati, Puglia holidays are becoming an increasingly popular choice.

Ylenia has graciously shared some of her vast knowledge of the region with us, along with some original photos, and we've summarised her information here:

Puglia holidays offer an escape to a region that's considered, both in Italy and abroad, pure heaven, a southern Italian paradise set apart from the rest of the country. An important region for wine production, as well as the cultivation of olives, cereals and a variety of fruits and vegetables, Puglia will tug at your heart with its evocative scenery, beautiful sandy beaches, magical atmosphere and colorful locals. On Puglia holidays, nature predominates, offering infinite vistas of olive trees, a sparkling blue ocean, an impressive countryside and the characteristic white coloring of the old houses. The sun, sea and wind blend seamlessly to make Puglia a magnet for discerning travelers looking for a truly authentic southern Italian experience.

Puglia is also rich in history and tradition. Unspoiled medieval villages, charming ancient palaces, castles and towers speak eloquently of Puglia's past, and popular traditions, fairs and festivals attract the attention of some of the world's great anthropologists. Be sure to allow lots of time to explore if you want to get the most out of your visit.

An integral part of most Puglia holidays is a trip through the provinces. As well as its extensive coastline, Puglia boasts a must-see interior. It features more than 60 million olive trees and unique medieval towns such as Lecce, Alberobello, Martina Franca, Ostuni, Cisternino, Locorotondo, Grecìa Salentina, Gallipoli, Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca. You'll discover remote villages, old palaces with secret gardens, and baroque churches. The region features a wonderful local cuisine and regional icons such as the Trulli Houses and the Masseria farmhouses.

All these features combine to make Puglia the perfect place for culinary and wine vacations, as well as yoga and bike holidays. Apulian cuisine is healthy as well as tasty, based primarily on vegetables, fish, homemade pastas, seafood and olive oil, and, of course, Italy's best bread - Focaccia Pugliese.

Salento - A Puglia Holidays Highlight

Located in the southern part of Puglia, Salento is a magical place that fascinates with its landscape, colors and flavors. A land of Baroque architecture, the Pizzica dance, stunning beaches, whitewashed walled villages and a splendid local cuisine, Salento sits proudly in the centre of the Mediterranean, a place where history, culture, music and landscape blend in a extraordinary way. Famous for its sunshine, historic vineyards and cellars, vast olive groves and an uncontaminated nature, Salento is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the warm hospitality of people who love sharing their traditions with new friends.

Salento is also known as the home of ”Slow Life” a philosophy of life made up of slow movements and pure joy of the moment. According to this “slow life” theory, locals things enjoying every minute of this area – when it is about nature, the sea, the food and wine, friends – is all important.

How To Plan Your Puglia Holiday

The increasing number of flights to the airports of Brindisi and Bari make Puglia easy to reach. You can opt for a fully escorted tour or self-catering itineraries.

Accomodation can be arranged in beautiful historical towns, in the countryside or by the ocean, and can suit every necessity and budget. B&B, farmhouses and country-houses, loft and apartments, luxury hotels and old palaces are all popular accommodation choices

Ylenia Sambati is a Puglia travel expert who can assist you in planning a trip to the region. You can email her at info@yltourcongressi.com or visit her website at www.yltourcongressi.it. You can also find her on Facebook.

In Puglia Ylenia will assist you in discovering its numerous attractions and help you tailor a memorable holiday in this magical part of the world.