If you’re craving sun, sea, sights and a slower pace of life this autumn – a southern Italian gem, with 20C weather throughout September, might be just for you.
Puglia, located in the heel of Italy‘s boot, is where whitewashed villages meet turquoise waters, and summer vibes continue well into the later months of the year.
With average daytime temperatures hovering in the mid-20Cs and the crowds of peak season long gone, it’s the perfect spot for Brits seeking a peaceful and warm escape.
Situated between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Puglia offers miles of coastline featuring stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and wild coves that rival any Mediterranean hotspot.
Some of the region’s beaches, such as Pescoluse, have even earned nicknames like the ‘Maldives of Puglia’ for their picture-postcard white sand and sparkling blue waters.
Beaches aside, visitors will find the region presents a more laid-back, authentic version of Italy rarely offered in the tourist-heavy north – think cobble-stoned paths, sprawling olive groves and hearty cuisine in rustic restaurants.
Lecce, dubbed ‘Florence of the South’, is known for its intricate Baroque architecture, golden-hued stone buildings and lively piazzas, while the picturesque Polignano a Mare offers jaw-dropping sea views, local wine and a charming old town.
For nature lovers and adventurists, beaches like Torre dell’Orso, Punta Prosciutto and Porto Selvaggio offer serene swimming spots and wild nature reserves.
Puglia, located in the heel of Italy ‘s boot, is where whitewashed villages meet turquoise waters, and summer vibes continue well into the later months of the year
Beaches aside, visitors will find the region has presents a more laid-back, authentic version of Italy rarely offered in the tourist-heavy north – think cobble-stoned paths, sprawling olive groves and hearty cuisine in rustic restaurants
The picturesque town of Polignano a Mare (pictured) offers jaw-dropping sea views, local wine and a charming old town
Swimmers can bathe in the warm waters of the sea, while those who prefer to stay dry can take a boat trip along the coast, passing ancient villages such as Otranto, Monopoli and Santa Maria di Leuca.
Autumn also marks the grape harvest season in Puglia, offering the perfect opportunity for wine lovers to sample the region’s celebrated red and white varieties, as reported by the Express.
With its fertile land and sunny climate, Puglia has become one of Italy’s most important yet underrated wine regions, producing everything from robust reds to crisp whites.
Meanwhile, another charming coastal escape in Spain could be the perfect cure for Brits feeling the post-summer blues.
Just a two-hour flight from the UK and a 30-minute drive from Benidorm, the sophisticated resort town of Moraira is being hailed as a quiet alternative to Spain’s bustling tourist hotspots.
With its golden sands, turquoise waters, and peaceful atmosphere, Moraira is slowly emerging as the Costa Blanca’s best hidden gem.
Originally a fishing village, the seaside town has retained its classic Spanish charm with its cobbled roads, old local markets and a range of activities like hiking and water sports.
Swimmers can bathe in the warm waters of the sea, while those who prefer to stay dry can take a boat trip along the coast
For nature-lovers and adventurists, beaches like Torre dell’Orso, Punta Prosciutto and Porto Selvaggio (pictured) offer serene swimming spots and wild nature reserves
Autumn also marks the grape harvest season in Puglia, offering the perfect opportunity for wine lovers to sample the region’s celebrated red and white varieties
Despite being situated 80 km away from popular holiday spot, Alicante, Moraira offers a much calmer vibe, according to travel expert Anastasia Leonova, the creator behind YouTube channel, Benidorm by Ana.
In a recent video, she called the destination a ‘must-visit’ that has left many Brits ‘falling in love.’
Ana said: ‘With numerous beach bars and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.’
Commenting on the beach’s ‘pristine stretch of sand,’ she added: ‘There’s always a spot here right by the seashore – even in peak summer months. The beach is famous for its calm waters.’
This article was originally published by a www.dailymail.co.uk . Read the Original article here. .