Unconventional Italy: Discover Gargano

Last summer I had the occasion to visit Gargano, a stunning region in Puglia, Southern Italy thanks to GarganoEcoTour. I felt home, because of the colors, tastes and great people I met. I found lots of common things with Tuscany.

Discover Gargano

When you think about Gargano you think about great blue sea and white sandy beaches. Well, that’s true but there is much much more. As a matter of fact the large area has mountains, the ancient Umbra forest, the salt lakes of Varano and Lesina, several archaeological sites and of course sandy beaches and blue water.

Each place is unique and deserves a few days to be discovered. So here you’ll find some tips for unmissable places to visit during your stay in the Gargano area.

The Lake of Varano and surroundings

I was really impressed by the beauty of the salt Lake of Varano. It’s the perfect place for birdwatching and for making a unique visit to the abandoned military base Stazione Idrovolanti Ivo Monti. There you can also see fishermen at work and get some fresh fish for your lunch or dinner.

In the area there is also the early Christian necropolis of Bagni, in the municipality of Cagnano di Varano. Here you can visit some of the tombs that were excavated into the chalky stone that are located near the spring of Bagno river, related to the legend of the ancient city of Uria, that should be located under the lake.

For a stunning view of the area there is the Tower of Mileto, dating back to 17th century located in the municipality of San Nicandro Garganico. In the same municipality there is the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria di Devia, a real hidden gem of Gargano. The church preserves stunning frescoes dating back to 13th century and offers a breathtaking view of the Gargano.

The Umbra forest

The Umbra forest is a protect natural reserve and is part of the National Park of Gargano. It’s a large green area counting about 10.000 hectares of forest. It’s the perfect place for hiking, as well as for mushrooms hunting and a relaxing day in the green.

Where to stay

Well I really I have to suggest Pizzicato B&B in Vico del Gargano. The B&B is a family-run accommodation offering rental apartments for your holidays in the Gargano area. It’s centrally located and you can easily reach all the major attractions. In addition Giuseppe, the owner, is a very nice guy and he really loves his region and can you give great tips.

Last but not least if you are skilled in any kind of art you can trade your stay. Isn’t it great? So what are you waiting for your next holiday in the Gargano area?