Exploring the Charm of Puglia with My Love

A Day of Enchantment

Today was a day filled with the kind of magic that makes you fall in love with a place. From the mesmerizing beauty of a natural wonder to the artistry of local craftsmanship and the pure joy of savoring authentic Italian flavors, every moment was a delight. It’s days like these that remind me why Hans and I embarked on this adventure in Puglia.

Our day began in the charming town of Polignano a Mare, where we enjoyed breakfast at Specchia Sant'Oronzo. The restaurant had a beautiful view and offered a delightful start to the day. I savored a cappuccino while Hans enjoyed a strong espresso, and we shared a flaky pastry filled with ricotta and candied fruit. The atmosphere was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in this picturesque town.


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

After breakfast, we set off to explore one of Puglia’s most iconic destinations: the Cave of Poetry. The drive itself was stunning, with olive groves stretching as far as the eye could see and the turquoise waters of the Adriatic shimmering in the distance. As we approached Roca Vecchia, the archaeological site surrounding the cave, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe.


Explore the breathtaking Cave of Poetry in Roca Vecchia, a stunning natural landmark steeped in myth and beauty along the Adriatic coast.

The Cave of Poetry, or Grotta della Poesia as it’s known in Italian, is truly a sight to behold. It’s a natural swimming pool carved into the rock, with crystal-clear turquoise waters that beckon you to take a dip. Legend has it that a beautiful princess once bathed in these waters, attracting poets from all over who were inspired to write verses about her beauty. I could certainly see why; the place exudes an ethereal charm that’s hard to resist.

We spent a couple of hours simply marveling at the natural beauty of the cave. The brave ones were cliff diving into the refreshing waters below, while others swam through a tunnel in the cliff that leads out to the open sea. I was content to sit on the rocks, soaking in the sun and the stunning views. Hans, ever the adventurer, took the plunge and jumped off the lower part of the cliff. He emerged with a grin, declaring the water to be invigorating.

The beauty of Puglia lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the way it nourishes the soul.

After our visit to the Cave of Poetry, we were ready for lunch. We drove to Masseria Mansueto, a traditional farmhouse restaurant nestled in the countryside. The masseria was surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, and the air was filled with the scent of herbs and wildflowers. We were seated at a rustic wooden table in the courtyard, and I immediately felt at home.


Experience authentic southern Italian flavors at Masseria Mansueto in Noci – where tradition meets taste amidst stunning Mediterranean scenery.

The meal was a celebration of Puglian cuisine, with simple yet flavorful dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. We started with a selection of antipasti, including creamy burrata, marinated olives, and grilled vegetables. For our main courses, Hans ordered the orecchiette with ragu, while I opted for the grilled lamb chops. Every bite was a taste of Puglia, and we savored each moment.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at the Puglia Design Store. I had read about this concept store in Bari, which showcases the work of local designers and artisans. We drove to the store and were immediately impressed by the selection of handcrafted goods. From ceramics and textiles to furniture and jewelry, everything in the store was made with care and attention to detail.


Explore the rich handicraft heritage of Puglia at the Puglia Design Store in Bari, where artistry meets tradition in every unique piece.

I was particularly drawn to the ceramics, with their vibrant colors and intricate patterns. I ended up buying a hand-painted bowl to remind me of our trip. Hans, meanwhile, found a beautiful leather belt that was perfectly his style. It was wonderful to support local artisans and take home a piece of Puglia with us.

As evening approached, we made our way to Putignano for dinner at Angelo Sabatelli ristorante. This Michelin-starred restaurant promised a refined dining experience, and it certainly delivered. The restaurant is located in a 16th-century building in the historic center of Putignano, and the ambiance was elegant and intimate.


Experience the pinnacle of Italian fine dining at Angelo Sabatelli Ristorante in Putignano, where culinary artistry meets local flavors.

We opted for the tasting menu, which featured a series of innovative dishes that showcased the chef’s creativity and skill. Each course was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically. From the amuse-bouches to the dessert, every dish was perfectly balanced and bursting with flavor. The wine pairings, selected by the chef’s son Daniele, were equally impressive.

One of my favorite dishes was the cuttlefish with almond and lemon, a delicate and flavorful combination that perfectly captured the essence of Puglian cuisine. Hans, meanwhile, raved about the milk bread with fig must and cumin. The entire meal was a culinary journey, and we left feeling satisfied and inspired.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day’s adventures. From the natural beauty of the Cave of Poetry to the artistry of the Puglia Design Store and the culinary delights of Angelo Sabatelli ristorante, every experience was a testament to the charm and allure of Puglia. I am so grateful to be sharing this journey with Hans, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Grotta di Sant'Oronzo and Gravina Sotterranea. We'll also have breakfast at La Murgiana, lunch at La Cantina della Canonica, and dinner at Ristorante Ubi Maior. If we have time, we might check out Speakeasy Bari for a nightcap. It's going to be another exciting day!

I’m also mindful of the local events that might be taking place. I’ve read about various festivals in Puglia during October, such as the Chestnut Festival in Cisternino and the Festival dei Balconi Fioriti in Polignano a Mare. It would be wonderful to experience one of these events firsthand and immerse ourselves even further in the local culture. Maybe we'll get lucky tomorrow!

As I drift off to sleep, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment. Puglia has a way of capturing your heart and leaving you wanting more. I am so glad that Hans and I decided to embark on this adventure together. It’s a journey that I will cherish forever. The warm weather in October makes exploring even more enjoyable, a welcome change from the cooler temperatures back in Bonn. I miss my little indoor garden sometimes, but the beauty of the olive groves and vineyards here more than makes up for it.

Goodnight from Puglia. Ci vediamo domani!