When we think of Italy, we imagine the green hills of Tuscany, the romantic canals of Venice or the monumental Colosseum of Rome.

Very few – even if in recent years this number is constantly rising – would think of Apulia, also known as “the heel of Italy”.

Off the track from mass tourism, Apulia is the ideal destination for those who love the less beaten tracks, for those let themselves be seduced by generosity, not disdaining lavish meals and a family welcome.

The Apulian landscape …

From the different shades of yellow – that of the fields growing summer wheat – to the thousand shades of blue and green bestowed by the coast: lose yourself in the backstreets of the Apulian countryside that offers priceless surprises, ranging from a sea stack that rises in the middle of the sea to expanses of ancient olive trees, from the typical trulli – old rural houses with a cone-shaped roof – to the plots of land cultivated with grapevines.

… and its historical centres …
The historical centres of Apulia’s charm cannot be overlooked. Lecce is nicknamed the “Florence of the South” for its exceptional Baroque architecture, defined as one of the most beautiful in the world.

Finely decorated churches, ivory-coloured alleys, squares that open up unexpectedly in all their grandeur: Lecce deserves to be discovered and experienced, with the slow rhythms of the South.

Further north, the colours change and the tuff gives way to white stone: in Ostuni, in the province of Brindisi, there is an enchanting village known for its white splendour. Even here narrow alleys that seem to end in the sea, perched churches and whitewashed walls. From Ostuni to Bari the road continues along the plains of olive groves that caress the Adriatic coast, such beauty that the journey itself becomes a destination.

Finally we arrive at Alberobello, one of the 54 sites included in the UNESCO World Heritage List: here you can admire the traditional trulli that form a fairytale landscape with their conical roofs. What were once small rural houses are beautiful homes today – equipped with every comfort – where you can experience a unique and authentic stay.

For the stay of your dreams …
As in the Nathalie Suite, a charming suite housed within a trullo skilfully restored in full respect of its original architecture, which conceals an unexpected private spa, with a large whirlpool tub carved into the stone. Perfect for a couple, thanks to its exceptional location, the Nathalie Suite is an excellent starting point for exploring the Valle d’Itria and the rest of Apulia.

Far from the splendour of the Amalfi Coast or the crowded artistic fame of Florence or Rome, Apulia bewitches you for its discreet beauty, which opens a door to a less known yet still authentic Italy. A destination that offers the pleasure of discovery in every moment by everyone.