Grand Tour Apulia & Basilicata - the 5 Senses 2026-27

For several years now, what has been called the “Puglia phenomenon” has been gaining momentum - a renewed interest in this ancient land that truly offers everything: from imposing architectural masterpieces, where centuries of history and diverse artistic movements can be traced, to small rock-hewn churches; from breathtaking seas to spectacular landscapes; from the majestic castles of Frederick II to the coastal towers built by the Normans, Swabians, and Angevins; from the baroque churches of Lecce and Martina Franca - captivating with their intricate stone lacework - to traditional workshops always open to showcase their craft and offer tastings of this generous land’s outstanding food and wine. And we will discover all of this together…
This tour, spanning Puglia and Basilicata, is designed for those seeking light, a sense of home, warm hospitality, and excellent cuisine. The Itria Valley will amaze you with its trulli - traditional dry-stone rural buildings with distinctive grey-and-white conical roofs—often thought to exist only in Alberobello, yet found scattered throughout the countryside, surrounded by countless shades of green from prickly pears, vineyards, and ancient olive groves. From the panoramic viewpoint of Locorotondo, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, you will enjoy a stunning view of this landscape. The Castellana Caves will astonish you with their magnificence and uniqueness. Then comes the “White City,” enchanting from afar, and Brindisi, whose millennia-old history can be felt everywhere. And how could one miss, just a few kilometers from Matera, that “happy harmony between history and modernity,” as described by Lucio Dalla? Its unique vistas are all waiting to be discovered, offering glimpses into ways of life not so distant in time. We conclude with Polignano a Mare, a dream suspended above the sea, and Bari, boasting one of the most beautiful seafront promenades in Italy. As with many of our tours, there will also be plenty of opportunities to discover local products and traditions through tastings and samplings of typical dishes.
The Lucanian Dolomites lie within the municipalities of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, an area of extraordinary scenic beauty no matter which road you take to reach these two villages, perched on facing peaks. This unique positioning makes it possible to experience an incredible flight through the space between them: the famous “Flight of the Angel.” Nestled beneath the peaks of the Lucanian Dolomites, Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa stand at 870 and 1,090 meters above sea level respectively. From these villages, you can admire breathtaking mountain landscapes and explore numerous trails leading to the most striking viewpoints. The Lucanian Dolomites date back to the Middle Miocene, around 15 million years ago, when the sandstones that now form their rocky structure were created on the seabed. The highest group is the Costa di San Martino, known as the “Little Dolomites” due to its resemblance to the famous Trentino peaks. Equally impressive are the peaks of the Murge of Castelmezzano and the spires of Monte Carrozze. In the most inaccessible crevices, you may spot magnificent birds such as the black stork, red kite, kestrel, and peregrine falcon. Although the rocky spires are almost devoid of vegetation, interesting plant species can still be found, including red valerian, annual honesty, and onosma lucana. These dramatic peaks stand in stark contrast to the surrounding softer, rounded landscapes, such as nearby Mount Caperrino. Adding to the charm is the Rio Caperrino stream, a tributary of the Basento River, which has carved a deep gorge separating the Murge of Castelmezzano to the north from the Costa di San Martino to the south.

Melfi
The castle, built by William of Hauteville in the 11th century on the ruins of a pre-existing fortress, is undoubtedly the most famous in the region. Even today, its imposing structure dominates the city skyline. In the following years, the castle was restored and expanded by Frederick II, who in 1231 promulgated here the “Constitutiones Augustales,” the first comprehensive written code of medieval laws, covering both civil and criminal matters. From the 16th century, the castle became the residence of the Doria family and also hosted several councils. During the council convened by Pope Urban II in 1089, the pontiff proclaimed the First Crusade to the Holy Land and established clerical celibacy. Originally consisting of a central structure surrounded by defensive walls, the castle has a polygonal layout and features eight towers—three polygonal and five square. The western tower, known as the “Lion Bastion,” has a nest-like projection which, according to legend, was the nest of Frederick II’s imperial eagle. Today, the castle houses the National Archaeological Museum of Melfi.

Ostuni
Even from a distance, Ostuni enchants, perched atop three hills like a masterpiece painted to enhance the surrounding Itria Valley. Its magical atmosphere is immediately striking, undoubtedly linked to the white color that dominates all others. Wandering through its narrow streets feels like stepping into a fairytale, where time seems to stand still. Its historic center has been carefully preserved by residents, who continue the tradition of whitewashing buildings with lime. At its heart stands the 15th-century Romanesque-Gothic cathedral, with a mesmerizing rose window. All around are artisan shops and small doorways, elegant palaces and churches, charming squares, and hidden courtyards filled with geraniums, connected by steep stairways. There are also restaurants where you can enjoy carefully prepared dishes, excellent wines, and high-quality cuisine. The Aragonese walls embrace the entire town. The surrounding countryside is dotted with masserie—ancient fortified farmhouses now transformed into luxury resorts—as well as characteristic trulli. In the distance lies the coastline, with its rugged shores, beautiful sandy coves, and crystal-clear waters.