Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Puglia, a coastal paradise stretching for 930 kilometres, from the rugged beauty of Gargano to the sun-drenched charm of Salento. Crystal-clear waters invite you to dive in, while enchanting historic villages, unique trulli, and traditional masserie promise a journey full of discoveries.
Beyond the breathtaking landscapes, Puglia will welcome you with the warmth of its people and the irresistible flavours of its cuisine, making your holiday an unforgettable experience.
Let's see together:
Puglia: Curiosities and History
Puglia boasts a rich history stretching back tens of thousands of years. Evidence of its earliest inhabitants can be found in Palaeolithic remains near Altamura and in impressive cave art sites. After the Romans conquered the region, it faced centuries of raids by the Saracens.
Puglia truly flourished under the reign of Frederick II of Swabia, who earned the titles of King of Sicily, Holy Roman Emperor, and even King of Jerusalem. Beloved for his strong personality, he is credited with ushering in a golden age for the region.
Puglia Points of Reference
Looking for the best attractions and monuments in Puglia?
Here is a short list of landmarks curated for short stays and for golfers, in order to make the most of your available time and enjoy the local culture.
Lecce Historic centre, Basilica of Santa Croce, Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta and S.Oronzo, Piazza del Duomo and Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate
Polignano a Mare Old Town, Lama Monachile, Costa Dei Trulli, Alberobello and San Vito Abbey
Gallipoli: Historic centre, Basilica Cathedral of Sant'Agata, Gallipoli Castle, Palazzo Granafei Hypogeum Olive Press and Church of Santa Maria della Purita
Food and Wine in Puglia
Puglia, as one might imagine, is rich in culinary and wine traditions.
Here are our top tips for our beloved golfers and travellers:
Orecchiette with Turnip Tops: A light and tasty pasta recipe, with handmade orecchiette and perfectly seasoned turnip tops. The region's emblematic dish, as well as one of the most flavourful pasta recipes you can taste.
Bombette As the name suggests: these Puglian delights are flavour bombs in disguise! Bite into a Bombetta and be surprised by an explosion of melted cheese and savoury cured ham.
Panzerotti: Panzerotti, for anyone who might not know what they are, are little stuffed calzones that can be baked or fried, for an explosion of flavour (and calories).
Primitivo: This robust, full-bodied red wine is strong and delicious. Its flavours are pronounced, often reminiscent of very ripe dark berries, as well as liquorice and black pepper. It is the perfect accompaniment for meat dishes.
Negroamaro This typical Apulian wine is a deep red colour and very savoury. Its aroma is delicately fruity, with notes of cherry and citrus. Another excellent pairing with rich, flavourful red meats.
Malvasia Malvasia white wine is a popular still white wine from the Puglia region, with a straw-yellow colour and floral and fruity aromas, with a sweet flavour. Excellent paired with fish and light dishes.
What to Do in Puglia
Are you asking what are the best activities – besides golf – and excursions you can do in Puglia?
Here is our top 3:
Tour of Ostuni, Alberobello and Polignano a Mare: There's no need to rent a car, just sit back and enjoy the scenery along the road to Ostuni, Alberobello and Polignano a Mare. Explore each town on your own, with a few tips from your guide, if you wish.
Full-day cycling tour of Gallipoli's hinterland and surrounding areas: Gallipoli and its surrounding coastal landscapes boast splendid views of the Ionian Sea and a rich history of conquests and settlements dating back to the Middle Ages. On this full-day cycling tour, you'll ride through Porto Selvaggio Natural Park with your guide leading the way. Easily reach far-flung historical sites like Alezio, Galatone, and Sannicola, and enjoy free time for a swim at your leisure.
Boat trip to the caves of Polignano a Mare Polignano a Mare is one of the most picturesque fishing villages on the Apulian coast, and the best way to admire the town and explore its famous sea caves is by sea. Depart from Cala Ponte for a boat tour along this pretty stretch of the Adriatic Sea, stopping to peek into the sea caves, take a dip in hidden coves, and relax and sunbathe on board.
Best Golf Courses in Puglia
This region is home to excellent golf courses.
Here are some of the best:
Acaya Golf Club
Designed by the renowned American firm Hurdzan & Fry, the course is suitable for both professional golfers and beginners. It is an 18-hole course constantly seeking a perfect harmony between the natural elements typical of the terrain and the style of play.
The golf club is internationally renowned. Over the years, it has hosted major professional and amateur competitions, achieving 5 BVGA stars in the international golf course classification.
San Domenico Golf Club:
San Domenico Golf is located where the Puglian countryside meets the blue of the Adriatic Sea, perfectly nestled between the slopes of the Valle d'Itria and the tourist port of Savelletri.
Characterised by a combination of strategically placed bunkers and an intricate windswept design, this prestigious links course, designed by London-based European Golf Design, meanders through gentle slopes, weaving its way between ancient olive trees and glimpses of the ancient city of Egnazia.
Barialto Golf Club:
The Barialto Golf Club was founded in 1997 with the aim of providing a place to share a passion for the game of golf. The course, located in Casamassima, has 18 holes and is set within a natural landscape of palm trees, ancient olive trees, and five lakes.
Masseria Torre Maizza Golf Club:
Set amidst ancient olive and almond groves, Masseria Torre Maizza Golf Club combines an idyllic Puglian landscape with excellent golfing facilities and a golf academy. Golfers can enjoy a 1,150-metre, par 27 course featuring two-tiered, manicured greens and fantastic sea views; practice facilities include a driving range, putting green, pitching green, and practice bunker.
Golf Trips in Puglia
Are you looking for the best way to experience Puglia and play golf on its most beautiful courses?
Discover our packages dedicated to the best golf holidays in the region!
Acaya, in the heart of Salento
Should you have any specific requests or different needs for your golf trip, please do not hesitate to contact us or request a bespoke Golf Tour. who.
Golf in Puglia: Is it the right destination for you?
Whether you are looking for a solo golf trip to play as much as possible, or you want to experience Italy with friends and family whilst also playing golf, this region has a lot to offer. Take a look at our golf travel packages above and find your golfing inspiration in Puglia!
Alternatively, if you are interested in booking a golf trip here or elsewhere, you can send us an email at: booking@golftourexperience.com and allow us to meticulously organise all the services you desire.
See you there!
