Coastal trails of Apulia: 6 spectacular hikes among sea, cliffs, and legends
One September morning, I left the road near Vieste to follow a small coastal path. No signs, only the salty breeze, the cry of a seagull, and the feeling of walking through a place that didn’t entirely belong to me. A small cove appeared. Empty. Perfect.
That day, I understood that the most beautiful beaches are not necessarily the ones marked on maps.
With over 800 km of coastline, Apulia offers incredibly diverse coastal landscapes. Yet few take the time to explore them on foot, where nature reveals itself slowly. From the Gargano to the far reaches of Salento, here are my 6 favourite routes—tested and tried—for walking among hidden coves, cliffs, caves, and local history.
Gargano: from Vignanotica to Baia delle Zagare
A panoramic trail that winds between white cliffs, fragrant pine forests, and turquoise sea. You follow the limestone ridge overlooking the famous natural arches of Baia delle Zagare. The views are spectacular, worthy of a mythological film set.
- Start: Vignanotica Beach
- Level: moderate – the path is sometimes steep
- Duration: 3 hours round trip
- Bonus: swim in a cove accessible only on foot
Foresta Umbra: the other face of Gargano
Just 20 minutes from the coast, this UNESCO-listed forest contrasts with the marine landscapes. Centuries-old oaks, shy deer, and a welcome coolness in summer. If you walk in silence, you might even encounter families of fallow deer…
📍 Start: Foresta Umbra Visitor Center
📌 Level: easy to moderate, depending on the loops chosen
⏱ Perfect for a half-day
💡 Ladypapavero Tip: If you’re motivated, combine the Vignanotica hike with the Foresta Umbra trail in the same day, with a break in the very charming town of Vieste.
The Via Traiana: from Polignano a Mare to Monopoli
Walk in the footsteps of the Romans along the sea: steep cliffs, fishermen’s huts, and breathtaking views of Polignano with its houses perched above the water. An easy walk, perfect at sunset.
📍 Start: Polignano a Mare
📌 Level: easy
⏱ Duration: about 3 hours
Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve
A hidden treasure among dunes, olive groves, and deserted coves. While walking, you might encounter loggerhead turtles along the beach or a park ranger ready to tell you about the local biodiversity.
📍 Start: Punta Penna Grossa
📌 Level: very easy
⏱ Duration: 1–2 hours depending on the chosen loop
🧺 Tip: Bring a good glass of Verdeca and enjoy an impromptu aperitif by the sea.
From Torre Canne to Savelletri
An easy morning walk between wild beaches and ancient ruins. Along the way: the sea, dunes, fishermen, and at the end, the archaeological site of Egnazia.
📍 Start: Torre Canne
📌 Level: easy
⏱ Duration: about 1 hour
⛱ Finish: Savelletri, perfect for a seafood lunch
🥂 Local tip: In March–April, try the raw sea urchins in Savelletri. Just with bread and a glass of white wine (for example, Bombino Bianco): pure bliss!
Salento: from the Sentiero delle Cipolliane to Porto Badisco
Sentiero delle Cipolliane: suspended between sky and sea, this coastal trail south of Gagliano runs along the cliff and overlooks coves with crystal-clear waters.
Porto Badisco: a legendary place (where Aeneas is said to have landed), with wild coves and golden light. Few people, an untouched atmosphere.
📍 Start: Ponte Ciolo for Cipolliane
📌 Level: moderate
⏱ Duration: 1h30
Walking to experience Apulia differently
Apulia is often explored by car, sometimes by train… but on foot, it reveals itself. Every cove, every stone, every turn along the coast tells a story—ancient or intimate.
So, if you want to get off the beaten path (without getting lost), bring water, good shoes, and pick a trail. The sea will do the rest.
