Bari, Italy

Castellana Caves & Polignano a Mare

Underground Treasure and a Clifftop Oasis Explore two of Puglia’s most beautiful sites, one natural and the other manmade. First, discover the Castellana Caves, Italy’s longest subterranean cave network. They are noted for unusual concretions, which are mineral deposits that cling to the walls and create shimmering, multicolored curtains and columns. The Grave (which translates to “Chasm”), is a vast chamber whose ceiling has an opening through which sunlight illuminates the formations. In the White Cave, behold a sparkling forest of alabaster stalactites and stalagmites, many of which are translucent. A different kind of white greets you at Polignano a Mare, a whitewashed village atop a 65-foot-high limestone cliff above the Adriatic. As you explore on your own you will see traces of its Greek, Roman, Arab and Norman past. Enjoy the winding lanes and secret gardens. Stop for a coffee in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. * Demanding - Physically challenging activities, including extensive walks, hiking, riding, water sports, and high altitude activities. Activities by foot may contain difficult, unpaved surfaces and/or multiple stairs and steep inclines. Total time walking or standing m