Are you dreaming of a sunny weekend in autumn? Head to a little-known region of Europe which has some great surprises in store for you.
As the first frosts of autumn appear, there is still time to treat yourself to a sunny break away from the gray and the showers. If the key destinations of the Mediterranean are taken by storm during the summer, certain lesser-known regions have nice surprises in store for travelers looking for autumnal warmth. Only a few hours’ flight from Paris, this pearl of Southern Europe is a real source of happiness for enjoying the last rays of the sun.
Imagine fine sandy beaches bathed by a turquoise sea, bordered by majestic cliffs. Picturesque villages with immaculate facades invite you to stroll through their cobbled streets steeped in history. Gastronomy lovers will not be left out, with generous and tasty Mediterranean cuisine highlighting local products. A true autumnal paradise just waiting to be explored.
This enchanting region is the “heel” of the Italian boot: welcome to Puglia! Located in the extreme south-east of the peninsula, this land of contrasts offers a total change of scenery. Puglia first unfurls its sublime beaches where the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea rub shoulders. Away from the summer crowds, it’s the ideal time to enjoy the coastline in complete peace and quiet. The crystal clear waters invite you to swim, with temperatures still mild around 20°C in October.
Puglia can also be visited through its towns and villages of character. Bari, the regional capital, seduces with its Mediterranean charm with its old town and lively seafront. Further south, Lecce is a baroque gem nicknamed the “Florence of the South” for its refined architecture. But it is above all the small coastal towns that make the region famous. Perched on a dizzying cliff, the village of Polignano a Mare offers a breathtaking panorama. Ostuni, the “white city”, is also not to be missed.
Off the beaten track, the rural landscapes of Puglia invite you to a gentle autumn getaway. In the middle of fields of thousand-year-old olive trees and vineyards, it is the ideal season to discover local gastronomic treasures. Take part in the harvest and taste famous wines like Primitivo or Negroamaro. Savor the freshly pressed olive oil and delicious fresh pasta, specialties of the region. With maybe a little fresh truffle?!
The hinterland also reserves unsuspected wonders, like the troglodyte town of Matera. Its dwellings dug into the limestone rock, the “sassi”, offer a fascinating spectacle. Nearby, the famous “trulli” of Alberobello, these traditional houses with conical roofs, are also worth seeing. In Puglia, you will experience an unforgettable autumn under the Italian sun. La dolce vita in all its splendor!