Flexible Arrival in Bari

Recommended flight: Departure from Paris CDG at 2:15 p.m. – Arrival in Bari at 4:35 p.m. (Direct flight AF1288).

For those travelling on the recommended flight, a warm welcome awaits at Bari’s airport, where your Fugue escort and French-speaking guide will be there to greet you. From here, your journey into the wonders of Puglia begins.

Your immersion starts with a guided tour of Bari, the region’s capital, a city where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly. Stroll through its charming old town, where winding alleys lead to the majestic Basilica of Saint Nicholas and the vibrant seafront promenade. Along the way, soak in the unique atmosphere of this sun-drenched city, shaped by the ever-present Adriatic.

Following this first introduction, a private transfer will take you to the prestigious Borgo Egnazia, a true jewel in the heart of Puglia. Designed in the style of a traditional village, this remarkable retreat blends contemporary elegance with authentic charm. Lush gardens, world-class facilities, and a serene ambiance set the stage for an unforgettable stay.

Dinner and overnight stay at Borgo Egnazia.

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Enjoy a leisurely morning and take the opportunity to indulge in a unique experience at the Vair Spa or simply explore your surroundings. Renowned for its holistic approach to well-being, Vair Spa blends local traditions with innovative treatments. Inspired by Mediterranean culture, its exclusive therapies use natural ingredients sourced from the region, offering an authentic and rejuvenating experience. Nestled in an enchanting setting, the spa provides a haven of tranquillity, where serene surroundings and impeccable service invite you to total relaxation.

By late morning, you will be transferred to the charming coastal town of Polignano a Mare. Perched atop a rocky cliff, the town juts out like a balcony over the Adriatic. Every corner exudes beauty – quaint piazzas, Romanesque churches, and the ever-present horizon painted in hues of deep blue.

In the afternoon, you will visit the Castellana Caves, exploring three kilometres of Italy’s most significant natural cavern network. While photography is not permitted, the striking limestone formations will etch themselves into your memory long after your visit.

As evening approaches, the journey continues to Ostuni, the ‘White City’. Poised on a rocky promontory, Ostuni offers breathtaking views over vast olive groves and the shimmering Adriatic. Strolling through its maze of winding alleyways, you will discover a city of timeless charm, culminating in the magnificent Gothic cathedral, a true architectural gem.

Dinner in Ostuni, followed by a second overnight stay at Borgo Egnazia.

Breakfast at the Hotel and checkout.

The day begins with a visit to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its iconic trulli. These distinctive cone-roofed dwellings, dating back to the 15th century, hold a fascinating history – they were originally designed to evade the property tax imposed by the Neapolitan government. With over a thousand perfectly preserved trulli, Alberobello offers a truly enchanting spectacle, set against a backdrop of pine forests and Mediterranean scrubland. Following your morning explorations, our trusted friend Mimmo has arranged a special experience for your lunch.

In the afternoon, accompanied by your French-speaking guide, you will uncover the charms of Martina Franca. This elegant Baroque town boasts an architectural heritage of remarkable beauty, highlighted by its majestic cathedral and the refined Palazzo Ducale, two emblematic landmarks that tell the story of the city’s rich past.

Your journey then leads to an extraordinary destination: Matera. What a remarkable transformation this city has undergone. Famous for its Sassi – ancient troglodytic dwellings carved into the rock – Matera was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993 and later named European Capital of Culture in 2019. Once marked by poverty and unsanitary conditions in the 1950s, Matera has since reclaimed its splendour, standing today as a living testament to resilience and ingenuity. Its labyrinthine network of tuff-stone dwellings, equipped with a sophisticated water collection system, creates an awe-inspiring and otherworldly landscape. Built into the pale rock of the Murge plateau, its cascading layers of interwoven homes form a setting seemingly untouched by time.

Upon arrival, you will settle into your exceptional retreat, Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita, an extraordinary hotel nestled within Matera’s historic caves. Combining authenticity with refined simplicity, this unique residence offers an immersive experience into the region’s deep-rooted history.

As night falls, set out on a guided exploration of the Sassi. Under the glow of evening lights, these ancient cave dwellings reveal their ethereal beauty, casting an atmosphere both magical and timeless.

Dinner experience in Matera and overnight stay in Matera

Breakfast at the Hotel and Check-out.

The morning will be dedicated to discovering Matera, one of Italy’s most mesmerising cities. Timeless in its charm, Matera invites you on a journey through the centuries, where history and architecture intertwine in an extraordinary narrative. As you wander through its picturesque alleyways and admire its remarkable buildings, you will uncover a city where nature, tradition, and culture exist in perfect harmony.

Following this unforgettable visit, the journey continues towards Salento, the southeasternmost tip of Italy, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas converge. Bathed in light and graced with breathtaking landscapes, this region is a fascinating crossroads of cultures, shaped by centuries of Mediterranean exchange. Salento is a land of contrasts, where every stone holds a story, and where ancient traditions still resonate in everyday life.

Your journey will lead you to Lecce, often referred to as the ‘Florence of the South’ or the ‘Salzburg of Salento’. A true masterpiece of Baroque architecture, Lecce exudes refined elegance and timeless charm. It is sun-drenched buildings, carved from the region’s distinctive golden limestone, imbue the city with a unique and luminous aura. A meeting point of civilisations, Lecce’s history is etched into its monuments and lively streets, where every corner reveals an architectural wonder, a testament to the artistic and cultural influences that have shaped this southern gem.

After a delightful lunch in Lecce, you will be transferred to your accommodation, the magnificent Palazzo Bozzi Corso. This historic palace, a sanctuary of elegance and sophistication, promises an unforgettable stay in the heart of the city.

In the afternoon, your French-speaking guide will lead you on an exploration of Lecce’s most emblematic sites, unveiling the beauty and grandeur of this exceptional city.

To bring this extraordinary day to a close, you will enjoy a private visit to the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce. In this sacred and architecturally resplendent setting, you will experience an exclusive moment of serenity and wonder – an encounter with beauty that will leave a lasting impression.

Overnight stay at Palazzo Bozzi Corso.

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Late in the morning, indulge in an exclusive private visit of the Palazzo Tamborino Cezzi, followed by a musical brunch in the heart of this extraordinary setting. Built in the 15th century, this palace unfolds like a living masterpiece, where every room and architectural detail tells a captivating story. You will be enchanted by its secret garden, a lush haven imbued with poetry and serenity. The hosts will bring the history of this remarkable residence to life, guiding you through an inspiring journey into its past.

Following checkout, a private transfer will take you to the airport.

Flexible departure from Bari.

Recommended flight with Air France: Departure from Bari at 5:20 p.m. – Arrival in Paris CDG at 8 p.m