​Puglia

In a region that’s known for its collection of caves, Castellana Grotte is one of the most impressive. Positioned close to Polignano a Mare and Alberobello, the caves are covered in stalactites and stalagmites and give this subterranean space an otherworldly appearance.

A short tour is available, which covers around half a mile or explore further with the extended version which spans two miles.

An otherwise unknown town, Grottaglie is widely regarded for its handmade ceramics. A settlement that dates back to ancient Rome, the town’s Quartiere delle Ceramiche has its own D.O.C. demarcation on account of its ceramic production.

Visit the ceramics district to watch the local Apulian artisans make ceramics by hand using traditional methods and pick up a few beautiful souvenirs for yourself too.

Bari’s modern centre may be nondescript but its ancient old town, known as Bari Vecchia, is charming, atmospheric and worth a stop-off. Surrounded by centuries-old city walls and situated on a promontory jutting out into the sea, enjoy a wander along the seafront and through the streets before making your way to the Basilica di San Niccolo. This impressive Norman church was built to house the relics of St Nicholas, which were stolen from Turkey by merchants from Bari in the 11th century. Visit the crypt to admire the shrine which holds the remains of the saint.

The extraordinary cathedral is the highlight of the seaside town of Otranto. Built in the 11th century, this Norman church has elements of Byzantine and Romanesque architecture and a show-stopping mosaic floor which was created in the 12th century and depicts the tree of life balanced on two elephants.

Those looking for a fright should head to the cathedral’s Chapel of the Dead, where the bones of over 813 martyrs who were massacred during a Turkish invasion in the 15th century are displayed in glass cases.

Located almost directly opposite Dubrovnik across the Adriatic Sea, the Gargano Peninsula is one of Puglia’s lesser-known destinations. Those in the know come here for the outstanding natural beauty, much of the area is part of the Gargano National Park which is renowned for its diverse array of plant life.

Visit in April or May to admire Gargano’s wildflowers in full bloom. The area is also home to several charming towns like Vieste, which juts out into the Adriatic Sea, and the ancient stone hill town of Vico del Gargano.

Orecchiette, meaning ‘little ears’ are Puglia’s most typical pasta variety, having been made here since the middle ages, and is made without eggs which is a vestige from a time when eggs were a luxury item.

The accompaniment for orecchitte is cime di rape, which is made with broccoli rabe or turnip tops, as well as plenty of chilli, garlic and pecorino.