Having so far lived in the shadows of its better-known counterparts, the region of Puglia in the heel of Italy is finally becoming recognised for the hidden gem that it is, and more and more are considering a Puglia wedding.
After a recent visit to the region, we were wowed by the area and its potential for couples seeking a destination wedding that’s slightly off the beaten track. Read on for our top reasons as to why this is Italian wedding location should on your radar.
1) It’s still a hidden gem
Whilst the area is quickly gaining in popularity, now is the time to visit, whilst it’s still relatively under the radar. The towns and villages are comparatively quiet versus the likes of Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast, which see huge surges in tourists and are often overcrowded. August is typically peak season in Puglia, as Italians go on their holidays, but outside of that, you can find yourself wandering round the cobbled streets of the beautiful towns, seeing no one but a few locals going about their business. The overall vibe is very relaxed – and sums up our love of laidback luxury to a tee!
2) The beaches
Puglia is well known for its glorious beaches, with crystal clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. Aside from offering a great opportunity to top up the tan pre-wedding, or relax post-wedding, the beautiful beaches also provide a perfect backdrop for your all-important photos on the day. The beaches here offer something for everyone – some busier with bars and beach clubs, and others serene, secluded bays, perfect for getting away from it all.
3) Sunshine and blue skies
Being located in the very south of Italy, the region is well known for its great climate, with temperatures in the 20s from April to October. July and August are the hottest and driest months, with temperatures regularly in the mid 30s, but for a good balance of sunshine and more bearable temperatures, consider late May-early June or September.
4) Easy access
The Puglia region has two main airports – Bari and Brindisi, which both offer a wide variety of flights across a number of airlines, covering most of the UK’s main airports – thereby giving your guests the ultimate flexibility. All of the key places in Puglia are within a maximum 2 hour drive from either of the airports making it easily accessible. With a flight time of just 2.5 hours from the UK, it doesn’t take long to get to this hot, sunny gem.
5) The food…
Well-loved by foodies, the region sticks to its cucina povera traditions, meaning a lot of simple, hearty dishes, done well. Popular traditional ingredients include chickpeas, herbs, and deep and delicious olive oils (the region is covered in olive trees, a number of which date back an incredible 3000 years!), as well as the orecchiette pasta they are well known for. Add in incredible lemons, fresh seafood, and the creamiest of burrata, and you have a match made in heaven. The perfect ingredients for the ultimate wedding feast!
6) … And the wine
Who could forget the wine?! There’s no shortage of delicious wines here, and whilst they’ve lacked visibility in the past, the area is increasingly being recognised by those in the know. For something deep and full bodied try the delicious Primitivo or Negroamaro – both rather punchy yet very drinkable reds! For daytime easy drinking, there are a variety of crisp and fresh whites and roses, which make for the perfect Puglia wedding reception drinks, sampled by you and your guests under the sunny blue skies. Sold yet?!
7) Puglia wedding venues
If you’re STILL not convinced, then let us tell you about some of the venues, perfect for a Puglia wedding. There are an amazing selection available, mainly in the form of a masseria (traditional farmhouse), although there are also plenty of options for beach weddings.
For large, luxury weddings, check out the likes of Masseria Spina or the bougainvillea-covered Masseria San Nicola. Or, for something more intimate, we visited Masserie Maresca – currently undertaking renovation work on their property to create a high-end luxury wedding venue, complete with tiny chapel. Once the work here is finished, you could be one of the first to hold your Puglia wedding in this very special venue, perfect for intimate weddings.
It’s safe to say that Puglia is well and truly the epitome of laidback luxury. It has a number of high-end venues yet remains a really chilled atmosphere and lacks the pretentiousness of some of its Italian rivals. If you think the area could be for you, get in touch and let’s get planning your dream Puglia wedding!