Apulia: Undiscovered Italy

After touching down at Bari airport, travel with an AHI representative to the beautiful Hotel Covo Dei Saraceni in Polignano a Mare. You’ll quickly fall in love with this little piece of paradise where the enticing scents of ocean breezes and baked bread greet the day and soft sunlight warms the town. Tonight, kick off your adventure as you gather with your fellow travelers to enjoy a Welcome Dinner.

Travel through the Valle d’Itria to Locorotondo, a picturesque village brimming with curious cummerse, the iconic, photogenic houses with pointed gable roofs. Following a visit to this captivating city, travel through a region deeply rooted in viniculture to a family-owned winery where we’ll sit down to a light lunch and wine tasting. Our next destination, Alberobello, greets us with a panorama of stout-shaped homes topped by distinctive conical rooftops. Later today, explore the Mediterranean tradition of slow food.

The aesthetically pleasing town of Lecce hosts a rich artistic heritage as reflected in its baroque façades, such as the 17th-century Basilica of Santa Croce. Nearby, see the awe-inspiring Roman amphitheater from Emperor Hadrian’s era. Continue through the Valle d’Itria to Ostuni where whitewashed buildings drape majestically over a hilltop setting. Ostuni’s web of alleys are highlighted with splashes of color from brightly painted doors to pots of red germaniums.

The timeless city of Matera was named a 2019 European Capital of Culture. As you roam its network of winding streets, you’ll encounter layer upon layer of history, where each turn reveals stone staircases, cave churches and unique habitable grottoes known as sassi that are carved out of limestone. Take some time to soak up the many pleasures of Matera; then return home to learn about Italy’s fascinating cultural heritage.

Nestled in the Adriatic’s embrace, this historic seaport is known for its Moscato di Trani wine and 13th-century fort. While walking through Trani, note its distinguishing Norman houses. Continue to a family-run olive mill for a guided tour and lunch. Inhale the herbaceous scent of the orchard and sample the delicious, nutty olive oil, often referred to as “yellow gold.” As the sun sinks into the Adriatic Sea, gather with new friends for a Farewell Reception and Dinner.