Villas in Puglia

About Puglia

Puglia is a region located in the southeast of Italy, in the "heel" of the country's boot-shaped peninsula. It is a stunning destination for a villa holiday, thanks to its unique blend of stunning coastline, gorgeous countryside, and fascinating culture.

Famous for its unique architecture, particularly the iconic "trulli" houses, these traditional stone
buildings with their distinctive cone-shaped roofs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a
fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

Another of its most striking features is its beautiful coastline, which stretches for over 800 km and offers a range of breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters. From the dramatic cliffs of Polignano a Mare to the long sandy stretches of Torre Lapillo, there is something for everyone here.

Inland, Puglia boasts an equally impressive landscape, with rolling hills, picturesque villages, and
stunning countryside dotted with olive groves and vineyards. The region is home to several national parks and protected areas, including the Gargano National Park and the Alta Murgia National Park, which offer ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.

Where to Stay

Renting a private villa in Puglia lets you fully immerse yourself in the region’s charm, savouring its beauty, culture, and laid-back lifestyle in a setting designed for relaxation and privacy. Whether you’re looking to be close to the coast, find a family retreat, or enjoy ample space for larger gatherings, our villas cater to a range of holiday preferences.

Villas Near the Beach

For those eager to explore Puglia’s breathtaking coastline, you will be happy to hear that all of our villas are just a short drive from some of the region’s most picturesque shores. Here’s a glimpse of what those beaches have to offer:

Torre Guaceto: A protected marine area and nature reserve, Torre Guaceto is famous for its crystal-clear waters and unspoiled sandy stretches. The beach here is ideal for swimming and snorkelling, with rich marine life in its clear, shallow waters. The surrounding dunes and wetlands are home to diverse wildlife, perfect for those who appreciate nature and tranquillity.

Cala Porta Vecchia (Monopoli): Nestled within the charming town of Monopoli, Cala Porta Vecchia offers a unique combination of beach and history. Surrounded by ancient city walls and historic buildings, this sandy cove provides stunning views of Monopoli’s old town. It’s perfect for a day trip where you can combine beach time with exploring the town’s winding streets and sampling local cafes.

Lido Morelli: Known for its fine white sand and clear, shallow waters, Lido Morelli is a popular beach with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families. Located within the Torre Guaceto nature reserve, the beach is well-maintained and offers sun loungers and facilities, making it a great choice for a full day by the sea.

Costa Merlata: With its rocky inlets, small sandy coves, and turquoise waters, Costa Merlata has an almost wild feel. This area is perfect for snorkelers and adventurers who want to explore the unique rock formations and marine life.

Pilone Beach (Spiaggia di Pilone): Located near the Torre Canne, Pilone Beach is a pristine and quiet stretch with soft sand and clear waters. This beach is known for its beautiful dunes and surrounding natural landscape, creating a peaceful environment.

View Villas

For those that want to explore further afield, take a look The Best Beaches & Coves of Puglia for a full list of our favourites.

Villas for Large Groups

For families or groups travelling together, our larger villas in Puglia offer spacious accommodations that comfortably sleep up to 8 guests. These villas are designed to provide ample room for everyone to unwind, with multiple bedrooms, generous living areas, and often outdoor dining spaces where your group can gather. Our large villas also feature private pools and expansive terraces, perfect for relaxing in the Puglian sun.

View Villas

Villas for Families

Our family-friendly villas in Puglia are ideal for groups of all ages, offering spacious living areas, secure outdoor spaces, and convenient access to local attractions and family-friendly activities. They all include private pools, gardens, and areas perfect for children to burn off their energy, making them the ideal base for creating special family memories.

View Villas

Picture Perfect Towns

Puglia is home to a wealth of charming towns and cities, each with its own unique character and
attractions. We especially love Ostuni where we offer a choice of charming villas with swimming pools.

Affectionately known as the “White City,” Ostuni is the crown jewel of this region. Its dazzling white
washed buildings cascade down a hill, offering stunning views of the Adriatic coastline. Wander the
narrow, cobblestone streets lined with artisan boutiques, authentic trattorias, and charming squares.
The 15th-century Ostuni Cathedral stands as a striking centrepiece, blending Gothic and Romanesque styles.

In the evenings, the lively Piazza della Libertà comes alive with energy, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of local wine while soaking in the atmosphere.

Other nearby attractions include the ancient olive groves that surround the town, the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve with its pristine beaches and walking trails, and the coastal towns along the Adriatic Sea, all offering opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

The nearby towns of Carovigno, Noci & Putignano, Polignano a Mare, and Martina Franca also offer their own unique charm, where we also have some villas to choose from:

Carovigno: A tranquil escape with mediaeval charm, Carovigno is home to the impressive Castello Dentice di Frasso and some of the region’s best countryside views.

Noci & Putignano: These neighbouring towns are a haven for food lovers and history buffs alike, with Noci's famous cheese and Putignano's rich carnival traditions.

Polignano a Mare: Perched above the sea, this breathtaking coastal town captivates visitors with its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque historic centre.

Martina Franca: Known for its baroque architecture, elegant piazzas, and proximity to the famous trulli of Alberobello.

Travelling to Puglia

Puglia has two airports, Bari and Brindisi, both of which are accessible from several airports in the UK, including Dublin, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Manchester, and Stansted. Follow this link to find out more about airports and airlines that serve Puglia.

Travel options within Puglia are abundant, whether you prefer to rent a car or use public transportation. Although bus services can be infrequent in isolated villages, getting around Puglia by public transport is relatively easy for major towns and cities. FS trains offer connections to most of the main locations, while smaller, privately owned lines serve more remote areas such as Gargano and Le Murge.

Things to Do

One of the many things to do in Puglia is exploring the picturesque countryside, which offers stunning views of olive groves, vineyards, and hilltop towns. Walking or hiking through the countryside is also a popular pastime, with several walking trails to choose from.

World Heritage Site Alberobello

Visiting UNESCO World Heritage site Alberobello is a must. The unique and well-preserved trulli houses that dot the town's landscape is a spectacle. The town is divided into two parts: Rione Monti and Aia Piccola. Rione Monti is the larger and more popular part of the town, with over 1,000 trulli houses clustered together on the hillside. Many of these houses have been converted into shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Discover Baroque Lecce

Take a day trip to Lecci - approximately an hour’s drive from Ostuni. Known as the “Florence of the
South,” it is a city of baroque beauty. Stroll through its elegant streets to marvel at intricately carved facades, visit the stunning Basilica di Santa Croce, and relax in Piazza del Duomo. Lecce is also a hub for local crafts, including the famous papier-mâché art.

Explore the Grotte di Castellana

Visiting the grottoes is another popular attraction in Puglia. The region is home to several cave systems, including the famous Castellana Caves, which are one of Italy's largest cave networks. Visitors can take guided tours of the caves to see the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

History

If history is of interest to you, the region has many ancient ruins, including the Roman amphitheatre in Lecce and the well-preserved Greek city of Metaponto. Visitors can also explore the mediaeval castles and churches that are scattered throughout the region.

Why Puglia Is Perfect for Families

If you’re looking for a holiday for the whole family, including little ones, Puglia is a dream destination, offering activities and attractions that cater to all ages, from toddlers to teens.

Water & Adventure Parks

For those seeking more adventurous activities, there are several water parks and adventure parks in Puglia. Aquapark Egnazia is a popular water park located near Fasano, with water slides, wave pools, and other attractions. The region is also home to several adventure parks, including the Indiana Park adventure park in Castellana Grotte.

Interactive Farm Visits

Introduce the kids to Puglia’s agricultural heritage with a visit to a local masseria (farm). Many of these historic farms offer interactive experiences, including cheese-making workshops, olive oil tastings, and opportunities to meet friendly farm animals. These visits provide a fun and educational outing for the whole family.

ZooSafari Fasano

For a truly unforgettable experience, head to ZooSafari Fasano, one of the largest wildlife parks in Italy. Kids and adults alike can enjoy a safari-style drive-through to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and other exotic animals up close. The park also features a walkable area with additional exhibits and a small amusement park, making it a full day of family entertainment.

Cycling Adventures

Explore Puglia’s stunning countryside on two wheels. Many local trails are family-friendly, with flat
terrain and shaded paths that make them suitable for kids. Bike rentals are widely available, and some routes even pass through olive groves or alongside scenic coastal views, offering plenty of opportunities for a family picnic.

Traditional Food & Drink

The region boasts a cuisine that is both flavorful and varied, with a focus on simple yet high-quality ingredients.

One of the most iconic dishes from Puglia is orecchiette con le cime di rapa, which is a type of pasta made from durum wheat semolina and served with a sauce made from turnip greens, garlic, chilli pepper, and olive oil. Another popular pasta dish is cavatelli, which is similar to orecchiette but with a slightly different shape.

Seafood is also a major component of the Puglian diet, given its proximity to the sea. Some popular seafood dishes include the cozze alla tarantina (mussels cooked with tomato sauce and chili pepper), and the baccalà alla pugliese (salt cod stewed with potatoes, tomatoes, and onions).

If you like a tipple with your meal Primitivo is a popular drink in Puglia. This wine is known for its intense flavour, high alcohol content, and deep colour. Tourists can visit local wineries to taste Primitivo and learn about the winemaking process.

Overall, tourists visiting Puglia can expect to indulge in a diverse range of dishes that highlight the
region's use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, simple cooking techniques, and a deep appreciation for the land and sea.

One of the most iconic dishes from Puglia is orecchiette con le cime di rapa, which is a type of pasta made from durum wheat semolina and served with a sauce made from turnip greens, garlic, chilli
pepper, and olive oil.