It varies by tour or retreat, but each one is built around deeper experiences, where you connect with locals rather than just visiting. The departure details set out the group size, accommodation, meals, experiences and transport included. You stay in places I’ve chosen for their history and character, with time to enjoy them.

Yes. For a tailor-made holiday I can arrange your stays, local experiences and private transport, or only the parts you’d like help with.

It depends on the holiday you have in mind. May, June, September and October are wonderful, with warm days made for walking. In autumn you might even join the olive or grape harvest. July and August are the busiest and hottest months, but they’re also full of food and religious festivals. If those are the only months you can travel, plan some beach or boat days, and visit towns and cities early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Honestly, never enough! More seriously, it depends on what you’re looking for and your pace. For the most iconic places at a moderate pace, 4 to 5 days can work, remembering check-in and check-out days. If you’d like to add small towns and deeper experiences, I’d plan at least 8 to 9 nights. Puglia is long and vast, so more time lets you slow down and enjoy it.

Yes, and I’d encourage it. Matera sits just over the border in Basilicata, the region next to Puglia, and with its ancient cave dwellings and centuries of history it’s well worth the visit. I can include it in your tailor-made holiday.

Yes and no, depending on the experience you want. A car gives you freedom and flexibility, and some stays and experiences can’t be reached without one. If you’d rather not drive, I can include a private driver in a tailor-made trip.