Gargano and Tremiti islands: Puglia's hidden gems of coastal splendor


A breathtaking sunset blends with a refined aperitif, while golden beaches stretch as far as the eye can see. For adventurous spirits, the crystal-clear sea waves invite you to ride them with a kitesurf, challenging the wind and water in perfect harmony. All this and much more is the essence of Gargano, an earthly paradise nestled in the heart of Puglia. Reaching this promontory may seem like an arduous challenge, with its winding roads snaking through the intricate and mysterious Umbra Forest. But every curve, every kilometer traveled, will be amply rewarded by breathtaking panoramas, views that will remain etched in your memory forever. If your time is limited to just a few days, an absolute must-do experience is visiting the marine caves of Vieste. This half-day excursion will catapult you into a world of adventure, where local legends intertwine with reality, and where glimpses of surreal beauty reveal themselves only to the eyes of those who observe them from the sea, unveiling their true hidden essence. The highlight of this maritime odyssey will be the passage through the Architello of San Felice, a natural arch named after the homonymous bay, symbolizing the erosive power of the sea over millennia. The excursion will reach its peak in the Bay of Zagare, where the famous sea stacks rise majestically from the azure waters, creating a unique panorama that will leave even the most experienced travelers speechless. As the sun sets, don't miss the experience of an aperitif on the trabucchi, ancient fishing structures, some of which are still active. Here, sipping an artfully prepared cocktail, you can savor local gastronomic delicacies, while the spectacle of the sun diving into the sea paints the sky with fiery hues, gifting a moment of pure magic. The following day, the Tremiti Islands await you for another unforgettable adventure. Reaching this paradisiacal archipelago is simple: ferries depart daily from Vieste, Peschici, and Rodi Garganico, offering you various options for your journey. Once you've landed, we recommend starting with a walk on the island of San Nicola, immersing yourself in its rich history and culture. Subsequently, a boat tour of the archipelago will lead you to the famous island of San Domino, where you can admire the "guardian of the island," a sculpture donated by the celebrated singer-songwriter Lucio Dalla as a testament to his love for this corner of paradise. For the bravest and diving enthusiasts, the island of Cretaccio offers a unique experience: on the seabed, three meters deep, stands a majestic statue of Padre Pio, creating an almost mystical atmosphere beneath the waves. Visiting Puglia without exploring these wonderful lands would be a real shame, a missed opportunity to experience unique emotions and create indelible memories. Our advice? Don't think twice: Gargano and the Tremiti Islands are experiences to be lived at least once in a lifetime, promising adventures, natural beauties, and a hospitality that will warm the heart of every traveler.