This immersive journey through Apulia’s Itria Valley reveals a landscape of rolling vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages—an area celebrated not only for its natural beauty but also for its rich history, lavish cuisine, and excellent wines.
Your day begins in Locorotondo, a village recognized among Italy’s most beautiful, with its iconic whitewashed houses and elegant touches of Baroque architecture. As you stroll through its peaceful streets, you’ll feel the timeless charm that makes this hilltop town so unique.
From here, continue to Martina Franca, a refined town known for its aristocratic character and grand Baroque churches and palaces. Yet beneath its opulence lies a more grounded spirit—visible in the multi-level homes once used as family residences, shops, and storage spaces. You’ll have time to wander at your leisure, perhaps stepping into a local food shop to sample Capocollo di Martina Franca, a traditional cured meat made from pork neck and smoked with local Maquis shrubs.
The journey continues into the countryside, where a family-run wine estate opens its doors to you. With vineyards dedicated to native grape varieties such as Primitivo, Negroamaro, and Verdeca, as well as select international grapes, the estate produces wines deeply rooted in local tradition. A member of the family welcomes you personally and shares the story behind their land and winemaking practices. In the winery, enjoy a tasting of three signature wines, each paired with bites of regional delicacies that perfectly complement the flavors.
As the day draws to a close, you arrive in Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its trulli—ingenious dry-stone dwellings with conical roofs, built without mortar to avoid property taxes imposed centuries ago. These structures, crafted by resourceful Apulian farmers, speak volumes about the region’s history and resilience. As you explore the village with your guide, you’ll learn to distinguish between the various trulli styles and uncover the legends behind them.
This day in the Itria Valley offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a chance to taste, walk, and listen your way through the traditions and stories that make this part of Apulia so unforgettable.
Duration: 8 hours
Inclusions: Private vehicle with driver + private guide + wine tasting based on 3 wines paired with local food
