Out of season, end September to end of May is a great time to enjoy the Puglia region for its natural beauty and slow pace of life. These months also cover the harvesting season for many of the crops. During the summer months everything focuses around the coast, during the winter months everything just moves a few kilometres inland. The coast roads are empty, which makes driving and sight seeing a real pleasure and while the weather is much warmer than in the UK (average low 60s) the heat of the summer is past and it is comfortable to stroll around taking in the sights.

Many of the resorts apart from the main towns on the coast will be sparsely populated during the off season months so if you like company it is best to go with others, although now the region is being discovered do-not be completely surprised to come across some other Brits

Car Hire

You need a car during the off peak months, which you can hire from the airport this will have to be for the duration of your stay. If you wish we can arrange for a hire car to be delivered to your resort. Cost: 35euros per day plus 15euros delivery charge. (2005 prices)

Sight Seeing

The whole region of Puglia abounds with ancient sites of interest most are in keeping with the non-commercial way of life and are open to the public free of charge. A good guidebook to the region would be a good investment if you would like to know more. Places that you must see are Gallipoli, St Maria de Leuca and Lecce, and a tour of the coast road is also a must. See places to visit.

There are also some unique caves well worth a visit, these are marked on maps and are best visited out of season when parking is easy and they are not packed with other people.

Eating Out

As everywhere restaurants vary in price and quality, you will find most places will serve a good standard of food and like everywhere if a place is busy it is worth trying. Fish is a great choice, normally caught locally so very fresh and inexpensive compared to the UK. A mixed seafood salad cost about 8euros, king prawns and squid, about 12euros, swordfish steaks about 8euros and the portions are generous. A pizza large enough for 2 is from 4 to 5euros depending on topping, a plate of chips 2.50 to 3euros. Pasta is about 4 to 5euros again depending on topping/sauce, a large Italian beer 2euros and a carafe (litre) of local house wine about 6euros.

Not all bars and restaurants are open off-season but normally the ones open are the best ones which have a good reputation with the locals and are therefore popular all year round. You will find a selection of restaurants within a few minutes drive of any resort and of course in the major towns all facilities are open all year.

Eating In

In addition to sight seeing, shopping is another reason for car hire during the off-season. Resort shops will be closed so you will need to take a short drive to the nearest supermarket to stock up. All prices are much cheaper than the UK but imports are more expensive obviously, Kellogg’s corn flakes cost about 2.50euros, the Italian brand 1euro. Fruit and vegetables are really inexpensive and grown locally, fresh baked bread is about 2euros a loaf. Fresh fish shops offer a selection of the days catch, and the butchers offer the normal choice of meats and whole spit roast chicken at about 4euros. Beers wines and sprits are about half the UK price.

Sea Excursions and Sea Fishing

Not promoted during the off-season but with a good phrase book you could be able to arrange something with a local fisherman.

Off-season is a totally relaxing experience and ideal for an inexpensive short break away from the frustration and cold of a British winter.