Exploring the Hidden Charms of Puglia, Italy

A Day of Natural Wonders

Today, Hans and I traded the charming streets of Puglia's towns for its untamed landscapes. It was a day dedicated to nature, exploration, and breathing in the raw beauty of this region. We ventured into two vastly different yet equally captivating natural havens: the sprawling Parco Nazionale del Gargano and the tranquil Torre Guaceto Marine Protected Area.


Explore the stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Parco Nazionale del Gargano, a top destination in Foggia, Italy.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Radici in Ostuni. The B&B was charming, and the breakfast voucher for a local cafe was excellent. Fuelled up with coffee and pastries, we set off towards the Gargano National Park.

The drive itself was an experience. As we left Ostuni, the landscape transformed from whitewashed towns to rolling hills dotted with ancient olive groves. The anticipation of immersing ourselves in the Gargano's wilderness grew with every kilometer.

Gargano National Park: A Hiker's Paradise

The Gargano National Park is a sprawling expanse of diverse ecosystems. Established in 1991, the park encompasses a wide array of landscapes, from rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to dense forests and ancient woodlands. It's a haven for wildlife, including wild boars, roe deer, and a variety of bird species.

We decided to explore one of the many hiking trails, choosing a path that wound its way through a dense forest. The air was thick with the scent of pine and earth, a welcome change from the salty air of the coast. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating an ethereal glow on the forest floor.

Hans, ever the enthusiastic photographer, was in his element, snapping photos of the gnarled trees and vibrant wildflowers. I, on the other hand, was content to simply soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. It's moments like these, far from the digital world, that remind me why I love to travel.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

As we hiked deeper into the park, we stumbled upon a hidden clearing. A family of deer grazed peacefully in the distance, seemingly undisturbed by our presence. We watched them for a while, marveling at their grace and beauty. It was a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of preserving these wild spaces.

After a satisfying hike, we decided to grab lunch. Radici is a charming bed and breakfast situated in Ostuni, close to the city center. Bina Ristorante di Puglia was unfortunately not in Ostuni, but in Locorotondo. We drove there and had a really nice lunch.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Bina Ristorante di Puglia in Locorotondo - where tradition meets taste.

Torre Guaceto: Coastal Serenity

In the afternoon, we drove towards the coast to visit the Torre Guaceto Marine Protected Area. This coastal gem is a stark contrast to the rugged interior of the Gargano, offering a serene landscape of sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life.


Explore Torre Guaceto Marine Protected Area: A pristine sanctuary of nature, wildlife, and breathtaking coastal beauty on the Adriatic Sea.

As we arrived, the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea beckoned. We parked the car and strolled along the beach, the warm sand between our toes. The area is known for its pristine environment, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape.

I had forgotten my swimsuit, a rather significant oversight considering our destination ! Note to self: always double-check the essentials, even when spontaneity is the name of the game. I was happy to wade into the water to cool off, though.

Hans, ever prepared, had packed his snorkeling gear. He spent a happy hour exploring the underwater world, marveling at the colorful fish and fascinating marine ecosystems. I contented myself with sunbathing and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. The weather was pleasant, and the reserve's natural beauty was in full bloom. The beach offered a peaceful and secluded setting for sunbathing and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

We learned that Torre Guaceto also serves as an important stopover for migratory birds. Although we didn't spot any rare species, the thought of these creatures making their seasonal journeys added another layer of appreciation to the area's ecological significance.

Before leaving Torre Guaceto, we took a moment to simply sit and observe the landscape. The sun was beginning to dip towards the horizon, casting a golden glow over the sea. It was a perfect end to a day spent immersed in nature's embrace.

A Culinary Conclusion

For dinner, we decided to try Specchia Sant'Oronzo. It was not in Ostuni, but in Polignano a Mare, so we drove there. The restaurant is known for its seafood dishes and boasts a charming ambiance with beautiful sea views. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was perfect for a relaxed evening.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Specchia Sant'Oronzo, where fresh seafood meets Mediterranean culinary traditions in Polignano a Mare.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the dense forests of Gargano to the tranquil shores of Torre Guaceto, Puglia had once again revealed its diverse beauty. It was a day that nourished our souls and reminded us of the importance of connecting with the natural world.

Tomorrow, we are off to Matera and Centro Visite Jazzo Gattini. I’m excited to see more of the region!

Unfortunately, I also learned that Jimmy Sax is performing in Ostuni tomorrow night ! I am very sad to miss that, but excited to see Matera.

Back at our accommodation, I realized I also forgot to buy an adapter for Italian power sockets. Another thing for my list for tomorrow!

Until then, goodnight!