If all you want to hear is the sound of the birds flying above you, the crushing of the ground beneath your feet, and your breath in between, you’ll love these options. Plus, kids will enjoy the freedom to explore in the open space. Most of these paths can be explored within two to four hours, depending on the pace, fitness level, and weather.
Umbra Forest, Gargano National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site blessed with an abundance of flora and fauna and 15 marked trails for various trekking levels and mountain biking. In fact, mountain trekking and cycling routes run across Gargano National Park with many itineraries and sights to see along the way, including breathtaking cliffs and the monastery of Monte Sant’Angelo. This region is certainly worth a two nights’ stay.
Gargano National Park, Provincia di Foggia
Natural Reserve Bosco Selva, Itria Valley
This trail covers the towns of Locorotondo and Alberbello and passes through oak forests, Mediterranean plant life, the cone-shaped trulli, and timeless picturesque landscapes dotted with sheep grazing the land while grapes shrivel in the sunlight, waiting for harvest.
Area Naturale Bosco Selva – Alberobello
Torre Guaceto Natural Reserve and Marine Park, Adriatic Coast
Pack the swimsuits for this one, and if you head over late afternoon, a ‘’sunset wine picnic’ is just what you’ll need for this beautiful excursion. The trail begins just off the SS16 main highway; and the path is dotted with impressive wheat fields, rich plant life, lush Mediterranean shrubs, and animals enjoying their natural habitat.
Torre Guaceto Marine Protected Area, di, Riserva Naturale Torre Guaceto, 72012 Carovigno
Via Appia (Stage 10), Gravina in Puglia
One of the many routes that led from the Holy Land to Canterbury, the Via Appia offers hikers of all levels to enjoy a combination of nature, archeology, and scenic views of sleepy countryside towns. You’ll cross old stone bridges, sleepy towns, and vast agricultural fields. In 2020, archaeologists uncovered the site of Vagnari, an ancient Roman settlement on the Appia Way just 15 kilometers northwest of Gravina di Puglia. Experiment on foot by taking the shorter routes, or rent a bicycle to explore longer trails. Check out wikiloc.com for itinerary ideas.
Natural Reserve Bosco delle Pianelle, Martina Franca
The Itria Valley is rich in countryside roads and walking paths, including this one in Martina Franca, home to thousands of holm oak trees. The circuit actually runs from Mottola to Martina Franca, and extends to the countryside of Taranto. There are also open-air musical concerts scheduled this summer. Check out the social account for the most up-to-date information.
Bosco delle Pianelle, Strada Statale 581 km 14+900, 74015 Martina Franca
Ancient Olive Tree Path, Ostuni
This route begins at the Archaeological Park of Santa Maria di Agnano and will walk you through the hills of Ostuni, passing through nature-made terraces and rustic paths while the olive trees dance in the plains below. This experience is best enjoyed either early morning or in the late afternoon.
Parco Archeologico e Naturale di Santa Maria di Agnano, PGXX+74, 72017 Ostuni
Punta Palascia to Porto Badisco, Salento
There are several unmissable trails here, and one of our favorites begins at the Punta Palascia lighthouse and heads south to Porto Badisco. You’ll have splendid views across the Adriatic with glimpses of the Albanian mountains, walk among Mediterranean shrubs and pass through masserias and beach spots for a refreshing dip.
Lighthouse Punta Palascìa, SP87, 73028 Otranto
For recommendations on the best walking guides who speak English, French, German, Russian, or other languages, we invite you to contact us via e-mail.
