Overall a very enjoyable trip. Although earlier reviews of the hotel mentioned the need for refurbishment, it appears this has now been done to a good standard. Accommodation is in five three storey blocks, linked to the main building by covered and well-lit walkways. The village is a little isolated, with only a small supermarket and two bars within walking distance, but with excursions, included and optional, available each day, the relative isolation wasn't a problem for most people, and there were superb views across the valley from the hotel grounds. The hotel staff were very friendly and helpful. The bar and seating areas were spacious and on two of the nights we were there, there was live music, which induced most of the group to dancing and a couple of JY congas.
Food was very good. Breakfast was buffet style, dinner was four courses, with anti-pasta, choice of pasta and main courses and desert. Portions were very generous. We had two included meals, one lunch and one dinner, at local masserias. Both meals were outstanding.
Apulia is as yet relatively untouched by tourism, and a largely agricultural area, with fishing boats operating on the coast. The highlights for me were the Sassi stone houses in Matera, recently used as the setting for the new Ben Hur film, of course the trulli houses at Alberbello, and Monopoli on the coast.
All the towns we visited had something of interest. Olive oil tasting at Ostuni, a roman amphitheatre in Lecce, and the mediaeval palazzo at Martina Franca. There was so much to experience and enjoy.
Although we did so much, all the excursions allowed us plenty of time for leisurely lunches and independent exploration. I would highly recommend a visit to this area of Italy before it is overrun by hordes of tourists.
Special thanks to Marsha our tour manager who led us with unfailing patience and good humour.
I was also on this tour and Sarah's post is a very good summation of the tour. I have been on various other Italian JY tours and I think this one is possibly the best so far. I spotted this post whilst looking at the Calabria tour which I will probably book for September next year. I would like to add that Marsha was an exceptional tour manager and I would like to add my thanks to her for making this tour so memorable. Rose Smith.