Exploring the Charm of Puglia with My Love

A Sunday Serenade in Gargano

Today was a day of pure, unadulterated immersion in nature. Leaving the familiar comfort of our temporary home, Hans and I ventured into the heart of Puglia's Parco Nazionale del Gargano. The crisp October air, a refreshing change from Bonn's increasingly chilly weather, invigorated us as we set out to explore the diverse landscapes this region has to offer. It was a day filled with stunning vistas, delightful culinary experiences, and the kind of peaceful moments that make travel so enriching.


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

Our day began in the charming town of Vieste, where we savored a delightful breakfast at 'U Vecchie Furne Restaurant. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our adventures. I opted for a simple yet satisfying pastry, while Hans, ever the traditionalist, enjoyed a hearty slice of pizza. It was a lovely start to the day, made even better by the friendly staff and cozy atmosphere.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at 'U Vecchie Furne Restaurant in Ruvo di Puglia – where tradition meets taste.

Fueled and ready, we drove towards the heart of the Gargano National Park. As we ascended, the landscape transformed dramatically. The azure coastline gave way to rolling hills, dense forests, and dramatic cliffs. The park itself is massive, encompassing over 121,000 hectares. I was particularly excited to explore the Umbra Forest, a vast green oasis known for its ancient trees and diverse wildlife.

We decided to embark on one of the many hiking trails that wind through the park. The October weather was perfect for hiking, with temperatures hovering around a comfortable 20°C. The trail we chose offered a mix of coastal views and inland wonders, allowing us to experience the full spectrum of Gargano's beauty. As we walked, the scent of pine and wildflowers filled the air, and the only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the occasional chirping of birds.

The earth has music for those who listen.

The views were simply breathtaking. At one point, we reached a vantage point overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The water was a brilliant turquoise, and the rugged coastline stretched out before us as far as the eye could see. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer grandeur of nature. Hans, ever the photographer, busied himself capturing the scene from every possible angle. I'm already excited to see how the photos turn out, knowing he'll perfectly capture the essence of this stunning landscape.

Continuing our hike, we ventured deeper into the Umbra Forest. The sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating a magical, ethereal atmosphere. I imagined the forest teeming with wildlife, perhaps deer or wild boars, though we didn't spot any on this particular trek. The sheer variety of flora was astounding, and I wished I had brought my marine biology books to identify all the different species. It reminded me of my childhood in the Seychelles, surrounded by the vibrant ecosystems of the Indian Ocean. This park is also home to over 170 bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.

By lunchtime, we had worked up quite an appetite. We drove to Masseria Il Frantoio, a beautiful farmhouse and restaurant nestled amidst olive groves near Ostuni. This wasn't directly in the national park, but the drive was well worth it. The masseria is a 500-year-old organic olive farm, and the setting was simply enchanting. We were greeted by Armando, the owner, who exuded warmth and passion for his craft. He gave us a tour of the property, explaining the history of the farm and the process of olive oil production. I found it fascinating to learn about the traditional methods they use to cultivate the olives and produce their exquisite oil.


Discover the charm of rural Italy at Masseria Il Frantoio—where rustic elegance meets authentic Mediterranean cuisine.

The lunch itself was a culinary masterpiece. We opted for the tasting menu, which featured a series of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Each course was a celebration of Puglian cuisine, from the homemade pasta with wild mushrooms to the succulent roasted lamb. Of course, the olive oil was the star of the show, drizzled generously over everything. Hans and I both agreed that it was one of the best meals we've had in Italy, and that's saying something! The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.

After lunch, we decided to explore some of the charming villages that dot the Gargano region. We drove to Vico del Gargano, known as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy. The town was perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. We wandered through the narrow, winding streets, admiring the ancient architecture and soaking up the local atmosphere. I couldn't resist buying a few souvenirs, including some locally made ceramics and a bottle of fig liqueur.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Vieste, where we had reservations for dinner at Radici. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and regional specialties. We started with a selection of antipasti, including grilled octopus, marinated anchovies, and fried zucchini flowers. For our main courses, I ordered the sea bass, while Hans opted for the seafood pasta. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, and the flavors were incredibly vibrant. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting ambiance, making it the perfect place to end our day.


Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Radici in Gravina in Puglia – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to stop for a nightcap at Alchemy Bar and Things in Vieste. This quirky bar had a unique atmosphere, with vintage furniture, dim lighting, and an eclectic mix of music. We ordered a couple of cocktails and chatted about our day, savoring the last moments of our Gargano adventure.


Discover a blend of creativity and charm at Alchemy Bar in Monopoli, where every cocktail tells a story and every evening is a celebration.

Tomorrow, we're heading inland to visit Castel del Monte, a mysterious and imposing castle that has been on my list for ages. We'll be having breakfast at Le Stanzie, lunch at Vinàlia, and dinner at L'Antica Locanda. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at Puglia Village. It sounds like another fantastic day of exploring the wonders of Puglia!

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It's about experiencing new cultures, discovering hidden gems, and connecting with nature in a meaningful way. The Gargano National Park is a true treasure, and I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to explore its beauty with my beloved Hans.