Puglia, the 'heel of Italy's boot', is a region of southeast Italy running along the coast and down, creating the Salento peninsula. Due to its position and history as an important trading route, there are many ports in this area but also a variety of exquisite beaches. The coastal town Monopoli, on the Adriatic coast makes for a great visit with its old town and harbour. It boasts the Castle of Charles the V, built during the Spanish domination and dating from the 16th century, as well as the 11th century coastal castle of St. Stephen. The town has harbours and secluded sandy coves like Cala Porta Vecchia which overlooks the city's 16th century fortified walls. There are stretches of white sand and the water is beautifully clear.
Monopoli is a short distance from Polignano a Mare, also popular with visitors for its beaches, rocky cliffs and clear water. Cliff diving and Scuba-diving at Polignano a Mare are particular favourites. The tiny old town is charming to wander around with its white-washed buildings, narrow streets and little old churches like the Chiesa Matrice. Most of the towns on the eastern coast of Puglia have been described as maintaining the 'traditional feel' of Italy thanks to the scenery, old buildings and way of life.
Marina di Ostuni is slightly further round to the south, and another sunny hotspot. There are some lovely sandy stretches here as well as the marina; clean, with plenty of amenities and a Blue Flag holder too. Most of the town dates from between the 1400s and the 1700s. The beach is great for a relaxing day but Ostuni is worth a visit in its own right too. Enjoy the clusters of white-washed houses, the charming Medieval layout with narrow backstreets and passageways, and the magnificent view of the Gothic Cathedral which is perched atop the highest point, surveying the town around it.
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