A Taste of Puglia – Ostuni
Ostuni
Ostuni is the white City. Built on a hilltop to protect from invaders with olive trees in front and the Adriatic sea behind and the 15th century Gothic cathedral perched on top.
It is a maze of alleyways, arches and narrow streets giving glimpses of the Adriatic Sea.
It is wonderful to wander through the Centro storico (old Town). Some streets are full of outdoor cafes and restaurants, artists and souvenir shops, others are completely deserted. Often you’ll come to a dead end.
Don’t forget to look up!
Walk the city walls walls looking out to sea and then head downwards. The best views are looking up to the town with its beautiful vista.
A short drive takes you to some of the most beautiful beaches in Puglia. Unfortunately the storms came whilst I was in Ostuni will torrential rain and thunder and lightning so I never got to the beach. Fortunately, I’d arrived at my lunch spot 2 minutes before the heavens opened. Lunch was at Sacxsim Risto, an atmospheric little pub with great seafood and laid back music. It also has a good selection of beers and cocktails. A good place to sit out the storm.
Where to Stay
I stayed at Luis House . Luisiana my host was just lovely. She arranged my transport from Alberobello and met me on arrival. She gave me so much help, information and recommendations. She messaged me the following morning to see if I had slept well and if everything was okay. It is in a perfect quiet spot less than 10 mins walk to the historic centre and will a supermarket round the corner. There was a great breakfast tray for of treats and a fruit bowl, yoghurt and drinks in the fridge. It was a lovely stone house.
The sun is never away for long it Italy and the next morning it was back. I had one more morning to explore the old city and try another of the local delicacies. Panini con Polpo is a sandwich of octopus and cheese and tastes good.
Ostuni is very beautiful with a lovely atmosphere. One tip – if coming by rail, the train station is not in walking distance. It is about 4km outside of town and can be reached by local bus or a taxi will cost €15.
Find a place to stay in Ostuni.
