Are you dreaming of a sunny weekend in autumn? Head to a little-known region of Europe that has some big surprises in store for you.
As the first frosts of autumn appear, there is still time to treat yourself to a sunny break from the gray and the showers. If the key Mediterranean destinations are taken by storm during the summer, certain lesser-known regions have nice surprises in store for travelers looking for autumn warmth. Only a few hours’ flight from Paris, this pearl of Southern Europe is a true source of happiness to enjoy the last rays of the sun.
Imagine fine sandy beaches bathed by a turquoise sea, surrounded by majestic cliffs. Picturesque villages with impeccable facades invite you to walk through their cobbled streets full of history. Gastronomy lovers will not be left out, with generous and tasty Mediterranean cuisine highlighting local produce. A real autumn paradise just waiting to be explored.
This enchanting region is the “heel” of the Italian boot: welcome to Puglia! This land of contrasts, located in the extreme south-east of the peninsula, offers a total change of scenery. Puglia first unfolds its lofty beaches where the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea rub shoulders. Away from the summer crowds, this is the ideal time to enjoy the coastline in complete peace and quiet. The crystal clear water invites 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. The village of Polignano a Mare, located on a dizzying cliff, offers a breathtaking panorama. Ostuni, the “white city”, should not be missed either.
Off the beaten path, the rural landscapes of Puglia invite you to a gentle autumn break. In the middle of fields of thousand-year-old olive trees and vineyards, this is the ideal season to discover local gastronomic treasures. Take part in the harvest and taste famous wines such as Primitivo or Negroamaro. Indulge in the freshly pressed olive oil and delicious fresh pasta, specialties of the region. With maybe some fresh truffle?!
The interior also holds unsuspected wonders, such as the troglodyte town of Matera. Its dwellings dug into the limestone rock, the “sassi”, present 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 glory!