Trip code: W07PL 4.6 (7 reviews)
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1
Leisurely
Flights
available
12.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
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Explore Puglia's pristine coastline, accompanied by glittering sea vistas, fragrant wild flowers and the gentle murmur of ocean waves as you head from Lecce towards Puglia's most southerly point at Santa Maria di Leuca. The region boasts a variety of wonders, from the Baroque buildings in Lecce and the Romanesque cathedral in Otranto to natural phenomena like the lunar landscape of the Blue Lake and the dramatic Zinzulusa Cave with its extensive stalactites and stalagmites.
En route, you overnight in traditional towns and villages, staying at small yet characterful accommodation that ooze Puglian charm. The final stretch runs along the Via Francigena del Sud, as you make your way to the pretty seaside town of Santa Maria, where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet.
The walking predominately follows dirt tracks, quiet country lanes and coastal paths which are exposed to the sun. Routes are gentle with the occasional longer, gradual ascent or a short steep section. Some short sections are very rocky and uneven underfoot, where you need to be sure footed. Walking boots and poles are recommended.
Admire the city's superb Baroque architecture before dinner.
You stay at La Bella Lecce B&B.
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Run by an Italian-English couple, Roberto and Stephanie can provide you with essential local information to ensure you make the most of your stay in Lecce. Situated within Lecce's historic city walls, this small but pretty B&B is located within a late 19th century building with traditional vaulted ceilings and golden stone walls.
All rooms feature free Wi-Fi, television, A/C and private bathroom.
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
We take you to the lush and colourful La Cutura Botanical Gardens, home to one of the largest private collections of rare tropical flora in Southern Italy. From here, set off through olive groves and past ancient stones, seemingly fallen from nowhere, as you head to the coast and spectacular Otranto.
You stay at Hotel Albania.
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This aptly named hotel takes its name from the majestic Albanian mountains which on a clear day are visible from the hotel's panoramic dining terrace. Located in the centre of Otranto, it’s ideally situated for exploring the Old Town, whilst being just a short walk from the seafront and the town's public gardens.
All rooms are furnished with a simple yet bright decor and include Wi-Fi, television, A/C, private bathroom with WC and shower, minibar and safe.
There's time to explore Otranto and its Romanesque cathedral, home to the famous 'tree of life' mosaic, then a glorious coastal path takes you past the stunning lunar landscape of the Blue Lake en route to Italy's easternmost tip, from where you can see as far as Albania on a clear day! End the day in the small village of Uggiano La Chiesa.
You stay at Masseria Gattamora.
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The masseria - a traditional fortified farmhouse - dates back to 1763 and has been transformed into a small but cosy hotel, with the former oil mill and hay store now housing the bedrooms, and the restaurant in the former stables. Facilities include an outdoor pool, gardens, bar and the beautiful restaurant, which comes with vaulted ceilings and open fireplace.
All room are comfortable, spacious and tastefully decorated with exposed white walls and high vaulted stone ceilings.
Wild flowers and sea views abound on today's walk as you follow the coastal path skirting the Sant'Emiliano promontory, topped by its panoramic 16th century lookout tower - built to protect the area from marauding pirates! The azure seas blend with impossibly blue skies as you continue to Porto Badisco - the perfect stop for a scenic lunch - before a gentle walk with more far reaching views takes you to the thermal resort of Santa Cesarea.
You stay at Villa Cesarea.
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Villa Cesarea is located in the centre of Santa Cesarea Terme, overlooking the sea. The residence dates back to the early 1900s and was lovingly restored in 2018, retaining many of its charming original features. There is a lovely garden surrounding the villa with several terraces where you can sit back and relax.
A shorter walk today with a background of lush hills and glittering waters, to the exceptionally beautiful town of Castro. Relax on its sunny terraces, bathe in the sea, visit the archaeological museum or the phenomenal Zinzulusa Cave - so called for the stalactites that seemingly hang like rags (zinzuli) from the cave ceiling. There is so much here to enjoy.
You stay at Hotel degli Ulivi.
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Just a 10-minute walk from the beach, the family run Hotel Degli Ulivi boasts superb sea views, with its balconies overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean. Rooms are simply furnished but comfortable, with ensuite facilities and sea view. The hotel also has a bar and restaurant which serves both Puglian and traditional Italian dishes.
Follow a coastal trail, fragrant with wild herbs, to the beautiful inlet of Acquaviva, with its pretty beach and picturesque marina. Then it's truly outstanding walking along age old trails boasting superb sea vistas, accompanied by the murmur of ocean waves, before heading inland to Tricase with its narrow winding alleyways and magnificent central piazza.
You stay at B&B Rosa dei Venti.
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Located in the quiet and historic centre of Tricase, this charming B&B offers a traditional feel with modern amenities. There are just 3 rooms, all well equipped for a comfortable stay, with tiled floors, exposed honey coloured stone ceilings and whitewashed walls. There is also an internal courtyard area where breakfast is taken.
After a short transfer to the pretty harbour at Novaglie, a spectacular clifftop trail winds its way through a breathtaking landscape of rocky cliffs dotted with euphorbia and prickly pear, with stunning views over the coastline and azure waters beyond. Today's final stretch runs along the Via Francigena del Sud, as you follow in the steps of pilgrims en route to the Holy Land to the Sanctuary at Santa Maria di Leuca.
You stay at Hotel Terminal.
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The Hotel Terminal has a prime location on the sea front, with lovely views over to the Punta Ristola Leuca, the southernmost point of Italy's 'heel'. Rooms at the Hotel Terminal are comfortable and well equipped whilst other facilities at the hotel include a restaurant, bar, outdoor pool and sun terrace. The hotel also benefits from its own private beach.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £180.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Brindisi airport. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1
Leisurely
Flights
available
12.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
