There are lots of wonderful walks located all across Italy so that, no matter your fitness level or interests or time constraints, there will probably be something perfect for you. Whether you are merely wandering and admiring the pretty surroundings of a palace garden or you are undertaking a proper trek through Alpine trails or across the famously beautiful Tuscan island of Elba or something in between, a vacation rental in Italy means plenty of opportunities to enjoy a nice stroll. However, if you are particularly interested in fascinating, almost alien, somewhat exotic, impossibly beautiful landscapes as surroundings then there is nothing for it but to find a villa in Apulia. The whole region of Apulia is known for being gorgeous but we reckon it deserves even more praise as a holiday destination and, in particular, as a destination for those who enjoy hiking and exploring. There is much to see and do in the region but one of the loveliest and most magical trails that one could possibly undertake while on vacation in Apulia has to be the Sentiero delle Orchidee, or Path of the Orchids. Come and stretch your legs, take in the delicate and incredibly stunning blooms, enjoy the scent, take in the other surroundings, and forget about the rest of the fast-paced modern world for a nice chunk of time during your holiday...
The Sentiero delle Orchidee is located in the Gargano area of Apulia, a part of the region that is positioned on the “spur” of the “boot” of Italy and is made up of mountains, lush pine forests, olive groves, and a dramatic coastline of striking limestone cliffs and long sandy beaches. This scenic part of the world and of Apulia is actually a very particular microclimate that houses the most varieties of orchids in one spot in the world, with over 86 different varieties to be found in the area. At their most beautiful when in bloom between April and May, these gorgeous flowers flank a lovely and historic trekking trail that boasts incredible natural surroundings. This path is also home to the ruins of the fascinating Abbey of Monte Sacro, which was once an ancient pagan temple that was then converted for use by Catholics over 1500 years ago. Furthermore, you’ll get to take in some wonderful views over the dramatic coastline of the area as you walk along the trail.
For flower-lovers and those in seek of some of the most picturesque surroundings in Italy while hiking, this is the route for you! Famous among those in the know, the route attracts hikers from all over the world when the orchids are in bloom each year, with travellers coming from all over Europe, America, and even as far away as Japan to experience it for themselves. Lasting around two hours to go to the end of the trail and back, it is not a particularly difficult walk and is very doable for reasonably fit beginners as well as more experienced hikers alike. If you want to be brought along the route by a knowledgable local guide, this can be arranged with a tourism company based in the area called “DoveAndiamoSulGargano” for just 10 euros for the guide alone or for 40 euros including the guided walk, lunch at the Monte Sacro farmhouse, a shuttle service to and from the walk, and a branded DoveAndiamoSulGargano backpack and water.
So, if you’re looking to check out some of the prettiest hikes in vacation rental in Italy and you are planning a vacation in Apulia then be sure to come and see this incredible natural phenomenon, the stunning natural surroundings in the area, and the historic monuments along the way while enjoying a fun but not overly difficult excursion.