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Have you ever heard of Locorotondo, Italy? Locorotondo is one in every of Southern Italy’s most stunning villages, in my view, but it surely isn’t but overwhelmed with vacationer crowds.
A real hidden gem, Locorotondo is only a 12-minute drive from busy Alberobello within the Puglia area, however looks like a world away.
Each Alberobello and Locorotondo are residence to trulli — white conical buildings distinctive to Puglia’s Itria Valley (Val d’Itria). You see trulli (singular: trullo) strewn all through the Puglian countryside, and the city of Alberobello is residence to neighborhoods totally composed of trulli!
The trulli of Alberobello are a UNESCO World Heritage Website, and so they draw enormous crowds year-round. And whereas I feel visiting Alberobello is crucial, the close by city of Locorotondo is even higher.
What makes Locorotondo stand out is the distinct form of its historic heart. Locorotondo derives from the Latin locus rotundus and means “spherical place” within the Italian language.
Whereas there aren’t tons of issues to do in Locorotondo (that’s all a part of the allure!), it’s a shocking little spot with a tranquil really feel. You’ll love taking photographs right here and absorbing the vibe.
Right here you may benefit from the round Centro Storico, sip a glass of Locorotondo DOC, and survey the Mediterranean panorama from the hill. Locorotondo is completely price your consideration should you’re planning a Puglia street journey.
This put up was printed in August 2024 and was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Hannah Cooper.
Greatest Issues to Do in Locorotondo, Italy
Wander the white streets
Wandering across the “spherical place” is purpose sufficient to go to Locorotondo. The round structure is probably the most distinctive function of the city, although you’ll want a chicken’s eye view to completely admire it.
Nonetheless, this labyrinthine tangle of slim lanes, whitewashed church buildings, and baroque facades is a pleasure to meander — much more so with a gelato in hand!
Locorotondo isn’t stuffed with museums and points of interest like different components of Italy, but it surely’s the form of place the place you’ll need to maintain your digicam prepared.
Begin with the photogenic Porta Napoli, which marks the western entrance to the outdated city. This paves the best way to Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, the primary sq.. Porta Nuova stands on the east of city.
If trulli are distinctive to Puglia then the identical might be stated of the cummerse properties scattered across the streets of Locorotondo. These homes have gabled roofs tiled with slabs of native stone referred to as chiancarelle. These buildings had been made with an identical method to the trulli and barely predate them.
If you happen to’re touring as a bunch you would possibly favor to e book a personal strolling tour of Locorotondo’s historic heart.
This brief tour focuses on the church buildings and distinguished buildings and your native information will clarify the historical past and secrets and techniques of Locorotondo. Because it’s non-public, timings and itineraries are versatile.
Take within the views from Punto Panoramico
You don’t need to be fluent in Italian to determine that Punto Panoramico is the place you’ll discover the perfect views from Locorotondo. This elevated terrace is well-liked at sundown, however price seeing always of day.
The views at this elevated terrace sweep over the encompassing space of agricultural land, vineyards, and olive groves. You’ll additionally see the terraces dropping down from the hilltop village and the sharp roofs of trulli poking out of the greenery.
It’s hooked up to the Villa Comunale, the place you’ll admire shaded benches on a scorching afternoon.
Discover the numerous church buildings
Regardless of its modest measurement, the Centro Storico of a Locorondo is has a strong variety of church buildings to go to. We’re nonetheless in Italy, in any case! The entire church buildings are free to go to, and their public opening hours are scheduled round companies.
Chiesa Madre di San Giorgio Martire, the “Mom Church” of Locorotondo, was constructed on the crossroads of the 18th and nineteenth centuries. When you can see the dome and bell tower from the surface, the inside is residence to statues and Gennaro Maldarelli’s Final Supper.
This and the Church of the Patron Saint San Rocco (Santuario di San Rocco) had been designed utilizing a Greek cross plan. Saint Rocco is the patron saint of Puglia and should you go to Locorotondo in August, you’ll end up on the coronary heart of a fireworks pageant in his title!
Courting again to the seventh century, Chiesa della Madonna della Greca is the oldest church in Locorotondo. Some historians consider a Greek Orthodox cult might have existed in Locorotondo, however by the point the medieval period got here round, it was reestablished as a Catholic home of worship.
Final however not least, the Seventeenth-century Chiesa di San Nicola di Myra has a easy whitewashed facade. Peek inside to see the attractive frescoes of musical angels.
Peek into the Palazzo Morelli
Palazzo Morelli is probably the most spectacular factor to see in Locorotondo. It’s a personal residence with a very ornate 18th-century Baroque gate.
Fuschia and magenta geraniums grasp from iron-wrought balconies to finish the scene.
Palazzo Morelli isn’t open to the general public, however you’re welcome to take photographs of the facade from the slim streets exterior. House is a bit tight right here, and this is without doubt one of the few locations in Locorotondo the place you would possibly encounter a crowd.
Go wine tasting in Locorotondo
Quiet down with a neighborhood white wine in one in every of Locorotondo’s wine bars. Locorotondo DOC — a dry white wine produced from the Verdeca grape, Bianco d’Alessano, and Bombino Bianco — all the time sits on the prime of the menu.
Locorotondo DOC is taken into account the perfect white wine in the entire of Puglia — so it’s price attempting right here, even should you’re like me and might barely tear your self away from the Primitivo!
This crisp white wine pairs to perfection with the scrumptious delicacies of Southern Italy. Order a tasting board and a bottle to take residence at Vinifera Vini & Affini or settle onto the terrace at Pavì for spellbinding views.
Reserving a wine tasting provides you a extra complete overview of Puglian viniculture and wine-making. This wine tasting occasion enables you to sip and swirl flagship native whites alongside regional reds and study how the local weather of Italy’s boot heel impacts the cultivation.
The operator arranges transport from Locorotondo and close by Puglian cities if required.
Go on an e-bike tour and style olive oil
Biking by way of the idyllic Puglian countryside is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Locorotondo should you resolve to remain in a single day. And should you’re a fan of Puglia’s premium additional virgin olive oil, even higher!
This three-hour guided e-bike tour departs from the city heart and heads into the guts of the Itria Valley. The pedal-assisted bikes imply you may cycle as a lot or as little as you want. I like e-bikes as a result of they make it really easy to stand up hills!
You’ll cease at a family-owned olive oil mill for a tour and tasting. This walks you thru the pruning, urgent, and extraction methods.
Ever puzzled which coloration olives produce the perfect oil? This tour reveals all. Olive oil is such a significant part of Italian cooking and it’s fascinating to be taught in regards to the course of behind it.
Keep in a trullo
Sleeping in a kind of conical white homes is the last word lodging expertise in Puglia. There are a number of trulli lodging on the outskirts of Locorotondo, though you’ll want a automotive rental or a taxi driver to succeed in them from the Outdated City.
Trulli di Zia Tata is simply two miles from the Centro Storico. Every trullo residence has a kitchenette and a personal patio overlooking the Puglian countryside. There’s no Wi-Fi,which implies no excuse for unplugging for a soak within the spa tub.
Positioned on a conventional farm, the two-bedroom Trullo Piccola Contrada is an identical distance. It’s barely extra fundamental however simply as comfy with a full kitchen and a shocking eating patio underneath the Puglian solar.
Fifteen minutes north of city, Trulli e Masseria Ianella accommodates households and teams of six. This rustic trullo has been rigorously maintained with simply the correct amount of modernization with out dropping any of the unique options.
Have dinner with a neighborhood in Locorotondo
When in Italy, eat, eat, and eat some extra! Puglia is understood for orecchiette — ear-shaped pasta. In case your travels take you to Bari, one of many nearest large cities, you’ll spot native ladies making orecchiette by hand each day within the streets.
Pasta in Locorotondo could also be tossed with contemporary seafood from the Adriatic Sea and meat however orecchiette con cime di rapa is the dish to look out for. Broccoli rabe (also called rapini) is the star ingredient, with chili and garlic balancing this barely bitter taste. (Have I discussed that Puglia is a superb vacation spot for vegetarians?)
In case you have extra time, this eating expertise at a neighborhood’s residence is without doubt one of the most memorable issues to do in Locorotondo. Accessible as lunch or dinner, this exercise is a cooking demonstration the place you’ll watch the host put together a four-course meal.
It’s performative, immersive, and informative — your non-public chef will spill the beans on learn how to put together supper like an actual Italian Nonna.
Naturally, the wine will movement and also you’ll get to eat every part on the desk.
Attend Locus Pageant
Locus Pageant was born in Locorotondo in 2005 as a low-key, native music pageant. It swiftly took off and 20 years later touts itself as a “glocal” pageant attracting worldwide artists and DJs. It’s since expanded to venues dotted throughout Puglia, however Locorotondo stays on the heart.
The road-up consists of however isn’t restricted to pop, digital, rap, songwriting, and up to date jazz – plus fusion and up to date music. The programmers all the time strike a steadiness between established and rising musicians.
Locus Pageant takes place from late June till mid-August with most occasions scheduled on the weekends. It has a mixture of ticketed and free occasions.
How A lot Time to Spend in Locorotondo, Puglia
Locorotondo is a small city and you will get by with a half day to see the primary sights. If you happen to’re pressed for time, I’d say simply drop by for an hour or so after visiting the trulli in Alberobello.
That stated, Locorotondo is a stunning and offbeat base for exploring Puglia. It’s a spot to think about staying in a single day if you’re drawn to quieter cities with much less to do however with a constructive vibe. Plus – you may seize the chance to sleep in a trullo.
Staying in a single day additionally makes it extra possible to e book an exercise like wine tasting.
Learn how to Get To Locorotondo, Puglia
I strongly suggest renting a automotive to get round Puglia. It’s one of the best ways to see the area and drop into as many little villages as you would like. There may be public transport between the key cities, but it surely’s pretty restricted, and Locorotondo itself doesn’t have a practice station.
Don’t be afraid of driving in southern Italy — I used to be terrified to drive right here, however quickly I spotted the driving in Puglia is SO easy and simple! So long as you’re not driving by way of an enormous metropolis heart, you’ll be effective.
Bari Airport (BRI), the closest worldwide airport, is simply an hour’s drive from Locorotondo (50 miles). Airport buses take half-hour to succeed in Bari Centrale; from there, public buses to Locorotondo take round two hours. You may test costs on rental vehicles from Bari Airport right here.
Salento Airport (BDS) in Brindisi is an identical distance (43 miles), though it’s served by fewer flights. If you happen to fly to Brindisi, positively lease a automotive, as buses to Locorotondo go by way of Monopoli and take over three hours. Test costs on rental vehicles from Salento Airport right here.
Alberobello is a 12-minute drive away from Locorotondo. Buses between Alberobello and Martina Franca cease at Locorotondo and solely take quarter-hour.
Learn Extra: 17 Suggestions for Driving in Italy
The place to Keep in Locorotondo, Puglia
Possibility primary is to remain at one of many trulli talked about within the part above. Realistically, you’ll want a automotive rental, in any other case you’ll need to depend on native taxis. The opposite possibility is to e book a lodge in Locorotondo close to the Centro Storico, which is an effective alternative for individuals with out wheels.
- Prime-Rated Luxurious Resort in Locorotondo: Villa Aurelia Suites and Residences is a stone’s throw from the Outdated City. Elegant rooms function tiled bogs and fashionable fittings. Try the spa tub suite for a luxurious keep.
- Prime-Rated Mid-range Resort in Locorotondo: Domus San Giovanni is situated within the Centro Storico minutes from the church buildings and Piazza Vittorio Emanuele. Charges embody breakfast and superior rooms have beautiful balconies overlooking the streets.
- Prime-Rated Funds Resort in Locorotondo: One ultimate trullo, as a result of why not? Trulli Caroli stands precisely midway between Locorotondo and Alberobello. It has the everyday pointy roof and uncovered slabs of native stone accenting the interiors. As with the opposite trulli, there’s no public transport.
- Test costs on all resorts in Locorotondo right here.
Greatest Time to Go to Locorotondo, Italy
Puglia doesn’t endure anyplace close to the identical stage of crowds as Italy’s hotspots. Locorotondo itself is extra off-the-radar as compared with Alberobello, Lecce, Monopoli, Matera, and seaside villages.
That being stated, Puglia is gaining extra traction lately, particularly with the massive North American market, and is getting busier between June and September lately. You’ll must handle your expectations within the top of summer season, and be ready for some crowding.
The opposite factor about Locorotondo is that it’s extra of a day journey vacation spot. The village stays comparatively calm within the mornings and evenings in summer season with a rush within the afternoon. I like staying in a single day in day journey locations because of this.
Even so, spring and fall provide the perfect circumstances to go to Locorotondo. Will probably be peaceable, and also you’ll have beautiful climate.
Is Locorotondo Price It?
I feel that Locorotondo is a vital cease on any Puglia street journey! It makes the proper coda to your go to to Alberobello. Whether or not you go to for a couple of hours or spend a couple of days right here, Locorotondo has the best way of charming the pants off you.
Probably the greatest issues about visiting Italy is taking a deep breath, enjoyable, and simply absorbing the Italian vibes. Many vacationers don’t give themselves sufficient time to do this. You need to try this on yours. And Locorotondo is the proper place to do it.
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Have you ever been to Locorotondo? Share your ideas!
