“When we decided to visit Puglia, I knew it would be beautiful, but I had no idea just how breathtaking this little slice of Italy would turn out to be. Puglia, tucked into the heel of Italy’s “boot,” is one of those rare places that feels like a hidden gem, even if it’s been around for centuries. Everywhere we looked, there was something unique, authentic, and totally captivating.

The Trulli Houses of Alberobello: Stepping into a Fairytale

Our first stop was Alberobello, home to the iconic trulli houses—those little whitewashed huts with conical roofs that you’ve probably seen in pictures. But being there in person was something else entirely. Walking through the winding streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site felt like stepping into a storybook. Each trullo is unique, with its own hand-painted symbols on the roof, and some are decorated with potted plants or colourful doors that add to their charm.

Many of the trulli are now shops or small cafes, so we wandered inside a few, discovering everything from handmade ceramics to local wines and olive oils. One trullo even had a small tasting room where we could try Puglia’s famous olive oil, and let me tell you—it was some of the best I’ve ever tasted! 

Finding Paradise on Puglia’s Beaches

Of course, no visit to Puglia would be complete without exploring its coastline, which is just as remarkable as you’d hope for in southern Italy. We found a beach that felt like our own little paradise, with soft sand and crystal-clear water that sparkled in the sun. The Adriatic Sea here is incredibly blue, and the rocky coastline, dotted with hidden coves, made the landscape even more dramatic and picturesque.

The Heart and Soul of Puglia: Food, People, and Culture

Beyond the trulli and the beaches, it’s the spirit of Puglia that made this trip unforgettable. The people here are so warm and welcoming, always happy to chat and share a bit of local insight. Every meal we had was an event—from freshly caught seafood to handmade orecchiette pasta and vibrant vegetables grown in Puglia’s sun-soaked soil. We dined in rustic trattorias with tables spilling out onto the street and tried a different wine each night, as the region’s vineyards produce some amazing reds and rosés.

Puglia is more than a destination; it’s an experience. It’s one of those rare places where you feel connected not only to the land and sea but to a way of life that’s somehow both timeless and refreshingly grounded. If you’re looking for a place that’s authentic, unspoiled, and incredibly welcoming, Puglia is it.” ~ Karen