High Gargano – Independent
Otherwise known as the ‘spur of Italy’, the Gargano Peninsula has been traversed by pilgrims since the 5th century, making their way to the celebrated Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel. Yet this region remains remarkably undiscovered by modern-day tourists, and therein lies much of its charm. Walk a wild landscape, moving between picturesque seaside towns along coastal paths that dip down to meet sandy coves. Continue inland through scented scrub and woodland, into the heart of the Foresta Umbra, a cool and shady haven for a rich variety of flora and fauna.
In April and May, the geological and climatic conditions of the peninsula, alongside its wealth of abandoned farmland, give rise to a profusion of flowers, including a wide variety of rare orchids, including endemics that draw orchid enthusiasts from all over the world. The tranquil coastline, with its coves, caves and beaches offers many opportunities for swimming or for excursions by boat.
Duration: 8 or 9 days
Itinerary
Time to explore Manfredonia with its port and castle. Stay in a welcoming 3* hotel.
This modern fishing town has an attractive old nucleus. It is not overly touristy, offering a genuine insight into day-to-day life here. Explore the castle and archaeological museum, take a stroll around the marina, walk along the seafront to the ruins of Siponto (the original port) or relax on the sands at Siponto Lido.
Welcoming, family-run hotel
Walk through the town and then across a small plain before ascending an ancient pilgrim route, once used by crusaders before they embarked for the Holy Land. The route, now a grassy ravine with ruined monasteries on either side, leads to the ancient town of Monte Sant’Angelo (2,755ft), with its whitewashed houses, steep narrow alleys and stairways, and views across the bay of Manfredonia and coast to the south (9.3 miles, 5 hours/bus 20 mins!) Well-appointed 4* hotel with pool and spa.
This beautiful hillside village has grown up around the oldest shrine in Western Europe dedicated to the Archangel Michael. The sanctuary commemorates apparitions of the saint here that occurred at the end of the 5th century. Many notable pilgrims have passed here and left offerings, from popes and saints to kings and queens.
Spectacularly positioned, well appointed hotel with large pool spa
Time to explore the town with an optional walk taking in the best sights including the sacred cave-church of St Michael, venerated as being the last place St Michael appeared on earth in 491 AD. Then set off down a well-made pilgrim path to the small town of Mattinata (650ft) set in olive groves, close to the coast (9.2 miles, 5 hours). 4* hotel with sea views.
Set over hills within the Gargano National Park, Mattinata occupies a picturesque spot, overlooking the blue Adriatic and a patchwork of olive groves. In Spring, wild orchids fill the surrounding countryside while in summer the protected bay and nearby beaches offer swimming opportunities. Peruse the shops for artisan items, such as prickly pear jam and local olive oil, or uncover local history at Monte Saraceno, a necropolis with over 500 tombs.
In lovely setting, with sweeping sea views
Follow paths along the coast and into hills overlooking the sea, before descending to the picturesque bay of Fontana delle Rose (6.1 miles, 3.5 hours). Brief transfer by road back to Mattinata.
A day trip from Mattinata, this bay features rocky white cliffs, pine trees, pristine sands and clear waters, making this an absolutely idyllic spot to unwind. Enjoy the sea views from the pebble beach where you can relax and swim at the end of the walk before your lift back to Mattinata.
In lovely setting, with sweeping sea views
After a brief transfer to the start of the walk, tracks lead up through limestone hills and a wooded valley to a highpoint (2,224ft) before continuing to the region of San Salvatore and your remote farm stay, beautifully situated on a ridge overlooking the Gargano coast (7.8 miles/5.5 hours). Optional extra walk to a necropolis and natural well plus excellent sea views. (3.5 miles/2 hours).
This working farm mainly produces extra virgin olive oil as well as a full-flavoured cheese called Caciocavallo that is unique to southern Italy. This cheese is made from the milk of the Podolico cow, a breed raised entirely in the wild. Its varied diet produces a rich milk, which gives the cheese its unique flavour. The teardrop shape is on account of the way the cheese is hung over a beam to dry. Your stay here will take you back in time to a way of life that is closely linked with the seasons.
Agriturismo: working farm with panoramic views
Walk through olive groves, enclosed meadows and pastures, gently climbing towards superb views of the coast with its small historic towns and villages. Paths then lead into mixed woods of centuries-old maple and oak trees and continue into the heart of the Foresta Umbra, a nature reserve within the Gargano National Park with the best-preserved area of ancient woodland in Puglia. Tranquil tracks through beech woods then bring you to the warm hospitality of your eco retreat in the heart of the forest (12.4 miles / 6.5 hours).
The Gargano was once a forested island before it joined with the mainland to form the ‘spur’ of Italy. What remains of this ancient woodland has been listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site. The dense canopy shelters a huge variety of animals and plants. This is the perfect spot to escape the modern world. Hide away among the trees in Hotel Elda, an eco-retreat with a focus on low environmental impact and wellbeing.
Simple but comfortable, family-run refuge in Umbra Forest
Walk along forest tracks and through meadows and emerge to follow an open ridge offering extensive views of the Adriatic coast, the Gargano Massif and the clustered white village of Peschici perched on a limestone spur in the distance. Then continue down through olive groves and quiet lanes to your 3-star hotel overlooking the sea in picturesque Peschici (13.2 miles / 7 hours).
Perched on top of a cliff above the Adriatic Sea, Peschici is a labyrinth of stepped alleyways and hidden piazzas. Explore the castle, defensive walls and towers that once protected this picturesque town from pirate attacks.
Friendly B+B with wonderful views, excellent location
Walk to Vieste following coastal headlands, then across farmland and olive groves to long, sandy beaches and Vieste (13.3 miles, 7 hours).
This beautiful village of narrow streets and white-washed houses sits above a coastline peppered with geological wonders. The chalk-like white limestone has been carved out by wind and water to create fascinating caves and archways. Take a boat trip to explore the cliffs or simply relax at the end of your walk on the beautiful beaches and unspoilt bays.
Very convenient to both the beach and old town, with pool
Trip Planner
Walking & Terrain
Walking: Moderate to challenging. The length of each day varies from 3.5 to 8 hours walking. Hours of walking, which may vary from individual to individual, means hours of actual walking and does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing – or swimming!
Terrain: Including farm and forest tracks through woods, scrub and olive groves; meadows and beaches; and quiet surfaced lanes. Some of the walking is limestone terrain, occasionally rocky, for which walking boots with a firm sole and ankle support are recommended. There are also a few sharp descents and ascents. The use of trekking poles is highly recommended on this trip.
There is moderate climbing throughout, and on Day 2 you undertake the strenuous ascent of Mont Sant’Angelo (2,755ft), climbing approximately 800m from sea level to the highest town on the peninsula. Day 6 is long but rewarding.
All ATG trips include facilities and options so that you can arrange to walk as much or as little as you like – or not at all - and your Route Manager will be able to advise you on public transport or taxi options.
Walking & Terrain
Walking: Moderate to challenging. The length of each day varies from 3.5 to 8 hours walking. Hours of walking, which may vary from individual to individual, means hours of actual walking and does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing – or swimming!
Terrain: Including farm and forest tracks through woods, scrub and olive groves; meadows and beaches; and quiet surfaced lanes. Some of the walking is limestone terrain, occasionally rocky, for which walking boots with a firm sole and ankle support are recommended. There are also a few sharp descents and ascents. The use of trekking poles is highly recommended on this trip.
There is moderate climbing throughout, and on Day 2 you undertake the strenuous ascent of Mont Sant’Angelo (2,755ft), climbing approximately 800m from sea level to the highest town on the peninsula. Day 6 is long but rewarding.
All ATG trips include facilities and options so that you can arrange to walk as much or as little as you like – or not at all - and your Route Manager will be able to advise you on public transport or taxi options.
Additional activities available locally
This is a wonderful area offering additional local experiences - these can be booked to fit in with the itinerary, or you may wish to customise your trip to have an extra leisurely day or two to enjoy.
Additional activities are paid for locally and can be booked via your Route Manager who will contact you 2 weeks prior to departure.
Kayak tour (in lieu of taxi transfer at end of the walk on the free day in Mattinata). Costs 20€/person self guided or 150€+€ 20€/person for a guided tour
Marine caves boat trip on the free day in Vieste (or from Peschici from June to September), costs 25€/person or from 200€/person for a private boat
Your Personal ATG Route Manager
I was born and raised in Puglia. I have studied and worked in other parts of Italy and abroad, but nostalgia has always brought me back to my beloved Gargano Peninsula. You will be amazed at the variety of landscapes on this route – in just one day you can walk from enchanting woodland to stunning beaches. A visit to the Unesco-listed Sanctuary of Saint Michael is a must, where you can witness 1,500 years of history!
“Matteo (Route Manager) was outstanding. He was almost a third member of our party and he contributed enormously to our enjoyment. You are fortunate to have him as route manager. He was sensitive to our desire for independence but stepped in with ideas and support when he sensed it was needed.”
Route Book
The ATG Route Book is a detailed, day-to-day guide. The book anticipates your needs with easy-to-follow instructions, maps, plans and other information that will guide you to discover the best that the area has to offer and is the key to the success of an independent holiday with us.
Walking App
Your Route Manager can provide you with a link to download an app to your smartphone. This app provides the GPS track for your route on your phone. You can use this digital support to find your position and navigate the route, even without an internet connection or mobile phone reception.
Accommodation & Meals
You can expect each hotel to be one of the most characteristic, comfortable and best located for travellers on foot, with the character and sometimes the standard varying from place to place. In more remote areas hotels may be of a generally lower standard in relation to their ‘star ratings’.
Single travellers are accommodated in double rooms for single occupancy for a supplemental charge.
Breakfast is included and there are suggestions in the Route Book about where to buy provisions for a picnic lunch, as well as restaurant recommendations. Dining options often include a choice of restaurants that can be pre-booked for you by your Route Manager.
Food & Wine
This region is traditionally poor and the humble (yet delicious) cuisine reflects this. There is pasta galore of every shape and size while the coast is a wonderful source of fresh seafood, from cuttlefish to calamari and clams – see the trabucchi, enormous wooden structures that were once used to catch fish, which line the coast from Vieste to Peschici. Wine in Puglia is free flowing – it produces one fifth of the country’s wine – but in recent years there has been a focus on quality over quantity. The region now has over 20 DOCs to its name. The Route Book contains a section on the cuisine and wines of the region, and a list of recommended restaurants en route.
Flora & Fauna
The Gargano National Park covers a wide array of habitats, from the woodlands of the Foresta Umbra, a sanctuary for centuries-old Aleppo pine, oak, yew and beech trees, to the limestone cliffs of the coast. Deer, wild boar and porcupines roam the woods while birds of prey including kestrels, peregrine falcons and snake eagles have all been spotted in the area. The Gargano is particularly famous for its orchids. There are over 81 different types growing here, including endemic species. Our Route Book provides further detail while apps such as ‘LeafSnap’, ‘Flora Incognita’ and child-friendly ‘Seek by iNaturalist’ can identify the wildlife en route.
Travel Arrangements
Travel arrangements, including flights, for ATG Independent Footloose trips should be made independently.
Outward travel to Manfredonia: Whichever airport you fly into, you will need to take a bus and /or train to Foggia and from there take a bus to Manfredonia.
Return travel from Peschici: To return to Bari airport, you will need to travel by bus to Foggia and then by train or bus to the airport. To return to Pescara or Naples airport, you will need to travel by bus to Vieste, then a taxi or bus to Foggia, then train or bus to the airport.
Trip Options & Prices
Overview
This 8 day independent walking tour in Puglia starts in Manfredonia and includes 6 days walking along the coast then high up into the Gargano National Park. Discover the nature reserve of the Foresta Umbra, excellent walking and swimming opportunities on this weeklong trip to southern Italy.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Manfredonia
Day 2: Manfredonia to Monte Sant’ Angelo
Day 3: Monte Sant’ Angelo to Mattinata
Day 4: Mattinata to Baia Fontana delle Rose
Day 5: Baia Fontana delle Rose to San Salvatore
Day 6: San Salvatore to Foresta Umbra
Day 7: Foresta Umbra to Peschici
Day 8: Departure
Prices (per person)
Overview
This 9 day independent walking tour in Puglia includes everything on the 8 day itinerary plus a scenic walk continuing further round the coast to the pretty, white-washed village of Vieste. A longer trip to southern Italy to enjoy delightful walking both on the coast and inland.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Manfredonia
Day 2: Manfredonia to Monte Sant’ Angelo
Day 3: Monte Sant’ Angelo to Mattinata
Day 4: Mattinata to Baia Fontana delle Rose
Day 5: Baia Fontana delle Rose to San Salvatore
Day 6: San Salvatore to Foresta Umbra
Day 7: Foresta Umbra to Peschici
Day 7: Peschici to Vieste
Day 8: Departure
Prices (per person)
Frequently Asked Questions
On each route there is an ATG Route Manager, who is there to take care of all the practicalities and ensure the success of your trip. Route Managers have all been ATG-trained, speak English and the language of the country fluently, and live in the local area. Your Route Manager will make contact with you a couple of weeks prior to departure (usually by email) and will then meet you at the start of your trip and will be available during your trip to move your luggage from hotel to hotel, provide local information, make restaurant reservations and do everything possible to ensure that you derive maximum enjoyment from your holiday.
Please let us know about any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so that our Route Manager can ensure that you are catered for during your holiday. Most dietary restrictions do not present a problem on our trips and the Route Manager can discuss your requirements in more detail with you at the start of your trip.
The walks are graded according to difficulty but you can walk as much or as little as you like.
Easy: walking along well-established paths and tracks with some short ascents/descents. These trips are suitable for most people who enjoy occasional exercise.
Easy to Moderate: walking along well-established paths and tracks. Occasional loose (gravel) surfaces. Ascents/descents up to 1 hour. These trips are suitable for most people who have a reasonable level of fitness.
Moderate: walking along a variety of paths and tracks. Occasional uneven areas. Ascents/descents 1-2 hours. These trips are suitable for those who have a reasonable to good level of fitness.
Moderate to Challenging: walking along varied paths and surfaces, occasionally challenging, with ascents/descents of 2-3 hours. These trips are suitable for more experienced walkers who have a good level of fitness.
If you are planning to take an Independent trip as a single traveller, we would ask you to consider the potential dangers of walking alone before making a booking and if necessary discuss this with our Sales team.
Single travellers will be booked into a double room which will carry a single occupancy supplement.
Flights are not included in the price of your ATG holiday and should be booked independently.
The trips in our Independent programme make ideal family holidays for those with children who are old enough (and keen enough!) to enjoy a walking holiday or young enough to be carried in a backpack.
You would need to consider costs for lunches (either a picnic style lunch or lunch in a café as you prefer) and evening meals. Where an evening meal is included at a hotel this is indicated on the trip page. For evening meals not included, the route book provides restaurant recommendations to suit a wide range of budgets. You would also need to factor in any entrance fees to museums, churches, galleries and other sightseeing costs, items of a personal nature, shopping expenditure and transport if you choose to not to walk on some days.
Tourist Tax
This tax is charged per guest per night and the rate is determined by the local council based on the star rating of the accommodation. The rate usually varies from €2 up to €5 per person per night, although the rate can be higher in major cities. This tax is not included in the price of your holiday but where applicable will be payable direct to your hotel in cash.
We are delighted to book extensions for you at either end of your trip. We only book hotels with which we have an established relationship and where we can ensure a high level of service and enjoyment. If you would like an extension hotel booking please indicate this during the booking process and we will contact you with pricing information.
ATG does not provide any form of insurance cover. However, it is a condition of booking that you have fully comprehensive insurance cover, including:
Cancellation/curtailment up to the cost of the holiday (preferably including flights)
Medical emergencies and repatriation
Travel delay / missed departure
Lost or stolen personal belongings
Personal liability
Legal expenses
Natural Disasters
Although most credit card companies offer travel insurance as something that is included when paying the balance with the card, it may be advisable to check that the cover offered is what you expect it to be. Very few companies include cancellation and curtailment or medical expenses. Whatever the insurance policy you have taken out, please read the documentation carefully. Please ensure also that you take it with you on your trip and refer to it in the case of any claim or emergency.
Yes, please click here for what to bring. A packing checklist is also included with your booking confirmation.
Sustainability
ATG was founded on principles of conservation and sustainable development. It was the first company to win the tourism industry’s two top awards: Tourism for Tomorrow (UK) and the World Legacy Award (National Geographic and Conservation International USA) and also the first to have an accredited Environmental Management System.
Everyone who walks with ATG contributes to the ATG Trust, which funds projects that benefit local communities in the regions visited. By supporting these initiatives, ATG promotes sustainable tourism. Past projects have included heritage restoration projects, environmental conservation and educational projects.
Other trips you may be interested in
