Puglia is the long strip of land that makes up the ‘heel’ of Italy. For centuries it was fought over and conquered by the major powers of the day, from the Greeks and Romans to the Turks and Spanish, all of whom have left their mark. 

Today it remains a traditional and relatively undiscovered region, yet with fine architecture, attractive countryside and a relaxed culture that deserves to be better known. Among the more striking features are the cylindrical, whitewashed buildings with grey conical roofs known as trulli, which are often joined together in a random, organic manner. Elsewhere we will see imposing castles and ornate cathedrals, ancient archaeological sites and mysterious caves, and have a taste of the top-quality olive oil for which the region is famous.