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Italy: Puglia

Undiscovered Puglia Walk – Discovering the South-East Coast

Trip code: W07PL

Average customer rating 4.8 / 5(17 verified reviews)

Self-Guided Walking
7 nights hotel-to-hotel
Steady
Flights available
Exodus trip
CO₂ rating 1/5
Headwater Navigation app

Trip highlights

Superb yet gentle coastal walking to Puglia’s most southernly point, Santa Maria Leuca

Walk in the steps of pilgrims along the southern section of the ancient via Francigena

History galore – Baroque cathedrals, Roman amphitheatres, Aragonese castles, ancient dolmen and menhirs

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Trip details

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.

What's included

Included

  • 7 nights in 3-star equivalent and 3-star accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Briefing at the start of your holiday
  • Headwater navigation app
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Walk transfers

Not included

  • Flights
  • Local taxes/fees
  • Travel insurance

Travel options

Flights

Our air prices include standard flights and transfers.

Eurostar

We can book connecting Eurostar services from London and Ashford if you prefer not to fly.

Itinerary

Route map, with each night's stop marked
The full route, night by night. Select the map to view it full screen.

Day 1 · —Arrive in Lecce

Arrive in Lecce

Admire the city’s superb Baroque architecture before dinner.

You stay at B&B la Bella Lecce

B&B la Bella Lecce
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B&B la Bella Lecce

Lecce

  • Air conditioning
  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Tea & coffee
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

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.

Day 2 · 15km/9.3mi or 19km/11.8miLecce/Torre dell'Orso to Otranto

Lecce/Torre dell'Orso to Otranto

We take you to the sandy shores of Torre dell’Orso, from where you set off along a low clifftop path with views over the Faraglioni di Sant’Andrea, lofty sea stacks that have seemingly fallen from nowhere into the azure waters. Head through pine trees and the golden sands of Baia dei Turchi before arriving in spectacular Otranto.

Elevation

Lecce/Torre dell'Orso to Otranto elevation profile

You stay at HOTEL ALBANIA

Hotel Albania, Otranto
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HOTEL ALBANIA

OTRANTO

  • Air conditioning
  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

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.

Day 3 · 14km/8.7miOtranto to Uggiano La Chiesa

Otranto to Uggiano La Chiesa

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.

Elevation

Otranto to Uggiano La Chiesa elevation profile

You stay at MASSERIA GATTAMORA

Masseria Gattamora
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MASSERIA GATTAMORA

UGGIANO LA CHIESA

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • ATM
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Swimming pool
  • Television
  • Visa cards

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.

Day 4 · 15km/9.3miUggiano la Chiesa to Santa Cesarea Terme

Uggiano la Chiesa to Santa Cesarea Terme

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.

Elevation

Uggiano la Chiesa to Santa Cesarea Terme elevation profile

You stay at VILLA CESAREA

Villa Cesarea
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VILLA CESAREA

SANTA CESAREA TERME

  • Air conditioning
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

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.

Day 5 · 8km/5.0miSanta Cesarea Terme to Castro

Santa Cesarea Terme to Castro

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.

Elevation

Santa Cesarea Terme to Castro elevation profile

You stay at HOTEL DEGLI ULIVI

HOTEL DEGLI ULIVI, CASTRO
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HOTEL DEGLI ULIVI

CASTRO

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

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.

Day 6 · 16km/9.9miCastro to Tricase

Castro to Tricase

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.

Elevation

Castro to Tricase elevation profile

You stay at B&B ROSA DEI VENTI

Rosa dei Venti B&B Tricase
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B&B ROSA DEI VENTI

TRICASE

  • Air conditioning
  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Market
  • Shops
  • Television
  • Wifi access

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.

Day 7 · 12km/7.5miNovaglie to Santa Maria di Leuca

Novaglie to Santa Maria di Leuca

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.

Elevation

Novaglie to Santa Maria di Leuca elevation profile

You stay at HOTEL TERMINAL

Hotel Terminal Sta Maria di Leuca
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HOTEL TERMINAL

SANTA MARIA DI LEUCA

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Swimming pool
  • Television

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.

Day 8 · —Leave Santa Maria di Leuca

Leave Santa Maria di Leuca

What our travellers say

Fascinating coastline and wonderful wildflowers. Great introduction to Salento.

Colin Wood

We really enjoyed the walking holiday. We hadn’t expected to walk through so many meadows which were very enjoyable. It was a walking holiday where you do get away from everything and only see a few fellow walkers most days.
We would recommend that you visit the local shops, bakery etc. before you set off as there isn’t always anywhere on the way.

Sarah Sharman

generally speaking we were very happy an will recommend Headwaters to our friends

Anthony Mynette

Another good Headwater walking holiday, but perhaps not the best we have had because of unseasonally hot weather for mid-June. Lovely coastal scenery, the inland sections spoiled in part by many dead olive orchards. This, plus one or two more challenging sections, suggest a Level 1+ grading in our view. Good hotels, two with very welcome swimming pools. Would have liked more time to explore Lecce and Otranto, so perhaps it would be better to include two “rest” days.

Martin Cross

I didn’t organise this trip but would recommend it. Great contact in Puglia – Marco – who was very helpful.

A Valued Customer

Overall a very well organised holiday with good walking routes

Mr Hanley

We have been on several walking holidays with Headwater and have never been disappointed. Booking the holiday is easy and the staff are helpful and have made alterations for us.
The accommodation has always been as described and brilliant for walkers. I would recommend Headwater for a hasslefree and enjoyable activity holiday

A Valued Customer

We like the wrap around care that you receive from Headwater and its agents on location. Very reassuring.

Mrs Griffiths

Well organised, lovely places to stay and right level of challenge for the walk.

Mr Smith

All arrangements taken care of – the accommodation was good and the walking route was varied with very pleasant scenery.

A Valued Customer
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Positive impact

Carbon score for this trip

12.0

Kg CO₂e

per person, per night

Relative to other Headwater trips

We measure emissions from the parts of the holiday we organise — including accommodation, in-trip transport, meals and activities — and express them as CO₂e per person, per night. Our label doesn’t include your travel to and from the start of the trip. As a Certified B Corp, Headwater is committed to reducing this figure and to positively impacting local communities, the local environment and our staff. Learn more

From£899per person