Summer on the Gargano: between beaches, islands and villages

Summer on the Gargano offers unforgettable holidays thanks to emerald beaches, lots of nature and millenary villages. The north of Puglia is a wild place, mostly untouched and waiting to be discovered because it has not yet been attacked by mass tourism. It is the perfect place not only for those who dream of relaxing holidays on breathtaking beaches but also for those who love hiking, visiting cities, discovering traditions and cultures. On this page we have selected for you the best activities to do in the summer.

Go hiking in the summer on the Gargano

The Umbra Forest is a UNESCO site and with such dense vegetation that it is shady, it is the right place for a summer excursion. In fact, you will be able to walk peacefully sheltered from the sun under the very high foliage.

There are an incredible variety of routes to do on foot or by bicycle, along which you can admire the beauties of the forest, unwind from the heat and recharge your batteries.

In this regard, read also the paths of the Umbra Forest.

If you want to combine discovery and relaxation, the Tremiti Islands are the perfect excursion. This complex of small islands not far from the coast is characterized by crystal clear water which makes them a real paradise for sea lovers. Precisely thanks to the transparency of the waters, these islands offer the possibility of snorkelling and diving, fully enjoying the seabed. There are sites that are also suitable for children and it is possible to make use of guides and instructors for a visit in total safety.

Visit the villages

The summer heat certainly makes it more difficult to visit the numerous villages on the Gargano but there are some unmissable ones that lend themselves well to spending the summer evenings.

Monte Sant’Angelo

The first village not to be missed is Monte Sant’Angelo, where two UNESCO sites can be counted:

1. the Longobard traces in the Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo within the serial site “The Longobards in Italy”
2. the ancient beech woods or “depressed faggette” of the Umbra Forest (of which we have spoken before).

For this reason, since 2018, Monte Sant’Angelo has launched its new brand: #LaCittàdeidueSitiUNESCO.

This village is worth a visit above all for the culture and history it possesses.

Vieste and Peschici

Unmissable then there is certainly Vieste, with very different characters compared to Monte Sant’Angelo. It is a town with very ancient origins, characterized by narrow streets and medieval houses. Perched on the rocks and surrounded by the sea, it offers the opportunity to enjoy an evening stroll among the many Apulian craft shops and typical restaurants. Here too the historical-cultural aspect is not lacking, we suggest you visit the Castle and the Cathedral.

The last village not to be missed is Peschici, built on a cliff overlooking the sea. Walking through the streets you can still see the influence of its Moorish origins, a reminder of Arab dominations and incursions, with caves dug into the rock and ancient white houses with domed roofs. Walking through the narrow alleys carved into the cliff, you can breathe the scent of the maritime pine that mixes with the salty air, with the smell of rosemary and the caper that grows spontaneously here.

Between Vieste and Peschici it is possible to visit the trabucchi, ancient wooden buildings once used for fishing and today recovered and restored for various purposes, especially tourism. In some it is possible to attend a traditional fishing trip, while others have been converted into a restaurant and are the perfect place for a suggestive summer dinner on the Gargano.

Summer on the Gargano means Beaches

The protagonists of a summer holiday on the Gargano are certainly the beaches. Made of sand or pebbles, with high white cliffs, crystal clear water and sea caves, they offer relaxation but also adventure. From Manfredonia to Peschici, the coast offers beaches suitable for everyone. There are places that are difficult to reach, perfect for those who love to discover unique places, and others that are perfectly equipped.