Empty beaches and beautiful towns, this region is a little paradise in the fall

You dream of a sunny weekend in autumn ? Head to a little-known region of Europe that has some nice surprises in store for you.

While the first frosts of autumn are just around the corner, there is still time to treat yourself to a sunny break away from the grey weather and showers. While the Mediterranean's flagship destinations are stormed during the summer, some lesser-known regions have some nice surprises in store for travelers looking for autumnal mildness. Just a few hours' flight from Paris, this pearl of Southern Europe is a true concentration of happiness to enjoy the last rays of sunshine.

Imagine fine sandy beaches bathed by a turquoise sea, bordered by majestic cliffs. Picturesque villages with immaculate facades invite you to stroll through their cobbled streets steeped in history. Gastronomy lovers will not be left out, with generous and tasty Mediterranean cuisine showcasing local products. A true autumnal paradise that just begs to be explored.

This enchanting region is the “heel” of the Italian boot: welcome to Puglia! Located in the extreme south-east of the peninsula, this land of contrasts offers a complete change of scenery. Puglia first unfolds its sublime beaches where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet. Sheltered from the summer crowds, it is the ideal time to enjoy the coast in complete peace. The crystal clear waters invite you to swim, with temperatures still mild around 20°C in October.

Puglia can also be visited through its towns and villages of character. Bari, the regional capital, seduces with its Mediterranean charm with its old town and its lively seafront. Further south, Lecce is a baroque jewel nicknamed the “Florence of the South” for its refined architecture. But it is above all the small coastal towns that make the region famous. Perched on a dizzying cliff, the village of Polignano a Mare offers a breathtaking panorama. Ostuni, the “white city”, is also not to be missed.

Off the beaten track, the rural landscapes of Puglia invite you to a sweet autumn getaway. Amidst fields of ancient olive trees and vineyards, it is the ideal season to discover the local gastronomic treasures. Take part in the grape harvest and taste famous wines such as Primitivo or Negroamaro. Savor the freshly pressed olive oil and delicious fresh pasta, specialties of the region. With perhaps a little fresh truffle ?!

The hinterland also reserves unsuspected wonders, such as the troglodyte city of Matera. Its dwellings dug into the limestone rock, the "sassi", offer a fascinating spectacle. Nearby, the famous "trulli" of Alberobello, these traditional houses with conical roofs, are also worth seeing. In Puglia, you will experience an unforgettable autumn under the Italian sun. La dolce vita in all its splendor!