Anticipation built as we cruised southbound on a train from Rome to a place we've spent years admiring via Pinterest. A landscape that looks almost otherworldly, but in a magical way. As the train moved further down "the boot," the terrain turned into red soil and white stone. The views out the train window appeared arid but somehow abundant. Rows and rows of olive trees began to appear, and soon that's all we could see. We made it to Puglia.
O S T U N I
What's more enchanting than an ancient white-washed town on a hill? In the center of the square is a towering statue of Ostuni’s patron saint, St. Oronzo. The ground is sparkly, the people are joyous, and it was the perfect place for a late lunch and Aperol spritz.
Do not miss the chance to take home some fresh orecchiette pasta which originated in Puglia! It is the perfect gift. (And, of course, OLIVE OIL!)
S A L E N T O
We still can't get over the fact that we swam in the Ionian Sea! We did get quite a windy day, so the water was a little choppy, but normally these waters are the clearest blue you'll ever see. Wind won't kill the vibe when you have Moet and fresh sushi, though.
C A M P O M A R I N O
Campomarino was home base for us during our time in Puglia, a place perfectly set back from the main villages. We chose to stay at Masseria A Libeccio, a classic Apulian country home, and it was a dream. For bloggers it is hard to get us to unplug, but these picturesque apartments made it so easy. Sitting pool side, drinking wine (made from the vineyards on the property) and dipping fresh Italian bread in olive oil (also made on the property.) Each apartment has a stove top, nice comfy beds and a private alcove over looking the property where we began every day and ended every night.
M A N D U R I A
We got to enjoy a beautiful day at Masseria Potenti, a luxurious and serene farm converted into a hotel. The giant cacti and agave were breathtaking and such a gorgeous contrast to the crisp white walls.
Although Puglia has dozens of stunning coastal towns, we were only able to see a few. Thankfully with a car, our journeys took us past several fairytale-like trulli homes, another unique architectural staple of Puglia. Each place seems to be as wonderful as the next, and we hope to come back soon to indulge in more Italian Summer serenity.
xo, WanderLust Girls
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