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Starting June 4, 2025, the Italian airline Neos, part of the Alpitour Group, inaugurated a weekly direct flight from New York (JFK) to Bari, opening the doors of Southern Italy to a new flow of international travelers.

A true revolution in connections between the United States and Puglia: for the first time, you can land directly in the heart of one of Italy’s most authentic and beloved regions — with no layovers.

This seasonal route will be active until October 15, 2025. If you’re thinking about a relaxing, cultural vacation far from the usual overcrowded tourist spots, this is the perfect time to book your trip.

Puglia Wins the Bet

The results have been impressive. According to official data released by Aeroporti di Puglia, the flight has recorded an average occupancy rate above 90%, with peaks of 94% on some summer days. A real success that has rewarded the initial investment and targeted promotional campaigns aimed at the American audience.

“We will double the frequencies and are working to extend the route starting from April 2026,” said Antonio Maria Vasile, President of Aeroporti di Puglia, in an interview with Corriere del Mezzogiorno on August 31, 2025.

What to Expect in 2026?

The goal is ambitious but realistic: increase flights from one to two per week (Wednesdays and Fridays), offering tourists the possibility to stay longer and create tailor-made itineraries lasting 7 to 10 days.

With growing interest from the U.S.—and thanks to significant tourism promotion efforts—it is estimated that thousands of passengers will travel this route by next summer.

“We noticed a strong flow from the United States right from the startup phase,” added Vasile, “a sign that Puglia is a mature destination ready to offer high-quality hospitality.”

Where to Stay: Pugliese Charm at La Sommità Relais, Ostuni

Just 45 minutes from Bari airport, awaits one of the region’s most exclusive and refined places: Relais La Sommità, located in the historic center of Ostuni, the famous “White City.”

This historic building, transformed into a luxury hotel, is an oasis of peace and beauty. Elegant rooms with views, a terrace with breathtaking panoramas, a rejuvenating wellness area, and a gourmet restaurant make La Sommità a destination in itself.

Perfect as a starting point to explore Puglia, it offers an immersive experience combining architecture, relaxation, and gastronomy.

Why Choose Puglia?

✔️ Accessibility: The new direct flight eliminates layovers and reduces travel time.
✔️ Authenticity: Rural landscapes, charming small towns, clean sea, and genuine food.
✔️ Immersive experiences: Cooking classes, walks among olive groves, folk music, and local festivals.
✔️ Luxury relaxation: Relais, masserie, boutique hotels, and spas just minutes from main attractions.

In Conclusion

The new direct Neos flight from New York to Bari is much more than just an air connection: it is a bridge between cultures and an opportunity to discover a still authentic, welcoming, and wonderful region.

If you want to experience the true Italy — full of history, sea, flavors, and beauty — Puglia is waiting for you.

From August 25th to 27th, Ostuni lights up with tradition and charm as the Cavalcata di Sant’Oronzo takes over the city.
A celebration where history, spirituality, and spectacle blend into one truly unforgettable experience.

365 editions and counting — this timeless event is the beating heart of the “White City,” a vibrant expression of its soul and centuries-old heritage.

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Origins That Still Shine

The devotion to Saint Oronzo dates back to the 17th century. In 1675, he was officially named Protector of Ostuni.
Legend has it he was the first bishop of Salento and died as a martyr under Emperor Nero in 68 AD.

His cult gained strength in the 1600s, when locals believed he had protected the city during the devastating plagues that struck the Kingdom of Naples.
Since then, Sant’Oronzo has become a powerful symbol of hope and divine protection.

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Horses & Horsemen: The Theatrical Soul of the Cavalcata

The Cavalcata di Sant’Oronzo, as we know it today, dates back to at least 1794 — a timeless ritual infused with elegance, drama, and devotion.

The undisputed star? The stunning silver statue of Saint Oronzo, crafted in Naples in the late 18th century, carried through the city in a grand procession on August 26th.

But the true showstopper is the parade of horsemen riding majestic Murgese horses — proud, powerful symbols of Apulian tradition.
The streets of Ostuni become a living runway of heritage and grace, as the horses glide by dressed in hand-embroidered saddle cloths, real textile masterpieces crafted by the women of Ostuni.

The riders, donning Napoleonic-inspired uniforms — red jackets, white trousers, and plumed top hats — escort the silver saint with dignity and flair.

It’s a breathtaking spectacle where faith meets stagecraft, and Ostuni’s radiant white alleys become the backdrop for one of southern Italy’s most striking and heartfelt traditions.

The Most Magical Moment: The Cathedral Entrance

The emotional peak of the Cavalcata is the solemn entrance into the Co-Cathedral of Ostuni.
Horses and horsemen move gracefully through the ancient marble aisles in a silence so intense, it speaks directly to the heart.

It’s a moment where faith, tradition, and sacred architecture come together in perfect harmony — a breathtaking sight you won’t forget.

An Event to Experience (and Capture)

Every detail of the Cavalcata tells the story of Ostuni — from artisanal mastery to devotional rituals — all wrapped in a deep, authentic identity.

The Cavalcata di Sant’Oronzo isn’t just a festival: it’s an emotional journey through history, style, and spirit.
It’s a must-experience event to live, photograph, and cherish.

Stay in the Heart of the Tradition: La Sommità Relais

If you want to experience the Cavalcata from a truly privileged perspective, La Sommità Relais is your dream location.

Perfectly positioned in the heart of the historic center, just steps from the Co-Cathedral, the relais offers a front-row view of the horse parade and religious procession, right from the picturesque alleys of Ostuni’s old town.

Ask our Concierge for the full program of Sant’Oronzo celebrations and let us craft for you an unforgettable experience of heritage, beauty, and Puglian elegance.

Puglian summer is an open invitation to slow down, reconnect, and explore with all five senses.

Those who choose Ostuni as their base and wish to experience the sea in a more exclusive and refined way will not be disappointed. Just a few minutes from the city lie some of the most sought-after beaches on the Adriatic coast — featuring designer beach clubs, elegant lounges, gourmet dining, and seaside cabanas perfect for pure relaxation.

In a fast-paced world, Ostuni and its surroundings offer a deeply restorative escape — a chance to rediscover the rhythm of nature and the luxury of time well spent.

Tucked between centuries-old olive groves and the shimmering sea, two pristine natural gems reveal the true soul of this region: the Regional Natural Park of the Coastal Dunes and the Marine Protected Area of Torre Guaceto.

Though distinct, these two protected areas are united by a shared philosophy: environmental sustainability and the desire to preserve a natural and cultural heritage that is unique in the Mediterranean.

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First stop: The Coastal Dune Park

Just minutes from Ostuni’s center, the Coastal Dune Park stretches over 1,100 hectares, encompassing ancient shepherd trails, fossil dunes, centuries-old olive groves, and wetlands inhabited by migratory birds. Every path invites you to slow down, breathe, and be amazed by the landscape.

Exploring the park by bike or on foot is an experience that reconnects you with the land: passing historic farmhouses, underground oil mills, and rows of olive trees dating back to Roman times.
This is the most authentic Puglia, far from hurried tourism, where every step is an immersion into agricultural history and Mediterranean biodiversity.

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Second stop: The Torre Guaceto Natural Reserve

About a half-hour drive from Ostuni, Torre Guaceto welcomes visitors with the silent power of its protected coastal landscape. This reserve, covering more than 2,000 hectares of marine and coastal areas, is considered an international model of sustainable management.

The waters are crystal clear, the sand golden, and nature reigns supreme.
There are no bathing establishments, loud music, or speedboats: Torre Guaceto is the realm of sea turtles, posidonia meadows, and slow rhythms.
Visitors can explore the reserve through guided snorkeling excursions, walks in the Mediterranean scrub, or visits to the environmental education center located near the ancient Aragonese tower that gives the reserve its name.

Between land and sea: Responsible tourism in Puglia

What unites the Coastal Dune Park and Torre Guaceto is a shared vision of environmental protection and territorial enhancement. Both areas are recognized at the European level for their commitment to promoting gentle tourism, slow mobility, and sustainable agricultural supply chains.

A stay at La Sommità Relais offers the perfect opportunity to experience this exclusive side of Puglia. From breakfasts made with local organic products to personalized experiences in the territory, every guest can connect deeply with the nature and culture around them.

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Tips for a sustainable itinerary

• Morning: hike or e-bike excursion in the Coastal Dune Park, from Torre San Leonardo to the Morelli river wetland, with the possibility to visit underground oil mills or historic farmhouses.
• Lunch break: picnic with local products or a tasting at a didactic farmhouse.
• Afternoon: transfer to Torre Guaceto for snorkeling, trekking, or simply relaxing on the pristine beach.
• Sunset: return to La Sommità Relais for a sea-view aperitif and dinner under the stars at the Cielo Restaurant.

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Want to live this experience?

The team at La Sommità Relais is at your disposal to organize sustainable itineraries, guided tours, experiences immersed in the most authentic nature of Puglia, and moments of pure well-being.

Summer is synonymous with light, energy, and freedom. However, for your skin, it can also be a challenging season: intense sun, UV rays, salt, and heat can put its natural balance to the test. To keep your skin healthy, glowing, and hydrated, it’s essential to adopt a few simple daily habits that truly make a difference.

Hydration is an absolute must. During summer, the skin tends to become dehydrated, dry, and less elastic. Apply a light moisturizing cream every day—preferably enriched with natural ingredients such as aloe vera or olive oil—to deeply nourish the skin. At the same time, remember to drink plenty of water to hydrate from within.

Sun protection is another essential step. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can damage the skin and accelerate the aging process. Always apply a sunscreen with an appropriate SPF, choosing light, non-comedogenic formulas that are perfect for everyday use.

Exfoliation, when done gently, is also important in summer. It helps remove dead skin cells, encourages cell renewal, and makes the skin brighter and more receptive to subsequent treatments. Choose mild, natural scrubs free from harsh ingredients to avoid disturbing your skin’s natural barrier.

La Sommità Relais: Wellness and Relaxation for Your Skin in the Heart of Ostuni

For deep yet gentle exfoliation, nothing compares to the Hammām Ritual with Savon Noir, available at our exclusive Oasis of Relaxation. Inspired by ancient Eastern traditions, this treatment uses black soap—a plant-based product rich in vitamin E—renowned for its purifying and nourishing properties.

The savon noir is applied to warm, damp skin to soften dead cells, then gently massaged and removed using an exfoliating glove. The result? Incredibly smooth, renewed, and silky-soft skin. Perfect even for sensitive skin types, this ritual blends physical wellbeing with mental relaxation, offering a sensation of lightness and deep harmony.

A Stay at La Sommità Relais: Elegance, Comfort, and Relaxation in the Heart of Ostuni

After your treatment, extend the feeling of wellbeing by staying in one of the elegant rooms or suites at La Sommità Relais. Nestled in the historic center of Ostuni, this refined and tranquil retreat is designed to offer a truly relaxing experience in every detail.

Each room is unique, combining history, design, and modern comfort in an intimate and welcoming setting. Essential furnishings, natural tones, and high-quality materials create the perfect atmosphere for rest and regeneration—far from the chaos, close to the authentic beauty of Puglia.

At sunset, you can wander through the whitewashed alleys of Ostuni, take in breathtaking views of the sea, and let yourself be enchanted by the golden light of this magical town. A stay at La Sommità Relais is an experience of complete balance—where beauty is felt, lived, and breathed.

Puglia once again confirms its position as one of the leading regions of Italian coastal tourism, bringing home an impressive 27 Blue Flags in 2025, marking a further leap forward compared to the previous year, when 24 locations were recognized.

This prestigious result, awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), certifies the environmental and tourism quality of Puglia’s coastlines, recognizing the efforts of local municipalities in safeguarding water quality, promoting recycling, and ensuring effective wastewater treatment.

Among the newly awarded locations are Castrignano del Capo in Lecce, Margherita di Savoia in the Barletta-Andria-Trani province, and Pulsano in the Taranto province. These three gems join already established names in Puglia’s beach tourism, such as Vieste, Polignano a Mare, Gallipoli, Ostuni, and the Tremiti Islands, all of which have been confirmed this year for their scenic beauty and excellent hospitality.

Ostuni: A Perfect Blend of Sea and History

Ostuni, the “White City,” is one of the ideal destinations for those who wish to combine the charm of the sea with the wonders of the inland. Staying at La Sommità Relais, a boutique hotel located in the heart of the historic center, offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic elegance, history, and relaxation. From the tranquility of this refined relais, nestled between the white rooftops of Ostuni and overlooking the olive groves and the sea, guests can easily reach the Blue Flag beaches of 2025, immersing themselves in the crystal-clear waters of Puglia’s sea.

Puglia’s Ports Shine Bright: Blue Flags for Sustainability

Puglia excels not only for its beaches but also for its sustainable ports. Seven marinas in the region have earned the Blue Flag for their ports, including the Marina di Leuca, Marina del Gargano in Manfredonia, and Marina di Brindisi, symbols of a growing, attractive, and increasingly sustainable nautical network.

The Blue Flag is awarded only to those who meet 32 rigorous criteria, including efficient wastewater treatment, accessibility, beach safety, biodiversity protection, availability of ecological services, and environmental education campaigns.

Puglia continues to be a model of sustainable tourism, where natural beauty, high-quality services, and a commitment to the environment come together in perfect harmony.

For those seeking the perfect sea, the only direction is South: destination Puglia!

In May, Puglia bursts into its most authentic beauty: perfect weather, sea-scented breezes, and nature in full bloom create an ideal atmosphere for exploration and relaxation. La Sommità Relais & Châteaux is the perfect starting point for a stay that blends understated luxury, comfort, and a genuine connection with the land.

Our historic residence offers exceptional hospitality, refined spaces, total privacy, and sincere attention to the well-being of our guests. Whether it’s strolling through the alleys of Ostuni, dining under citrus trees at our Garden Bistrot, or unwinding in our cozy Oasis of Relaxation, May is the perfect month to experience Puglia with style and slowness.

5 Exclusive Experiences

5 Exclusive Experiences

🌳 E-Bike Tour along the Via del Procaccia
Discover the countryside around Ostuni with an exclusive e-bike tour along the Via del Procaccia, an ancient rural road surrounded by centuries-old olive trees, dry stone walls, and Mediterranean scents. With the assistance of an expert guide, you’ll enjoy an active yet relaxing experience, immersed in nature, history, and breathtaking views that stretch to the sea. The experience is customizable and includes stops for tastings or photos at the most scenic spots.

🍝 Puglian Orecchiette Cooking Class
Under the guidance of a local cook, you’ll learn the art of making traditional Puglian orecchiette. From the dough to the signature “dragging” technique, every movement tells a story. The class concludes with a convivial tasting of the dishes you’ve prepared.

🍹 “Cielo che Spritz!” Sunset Aperitif on the Belvedere Terrace
Each evening at sunset, the La Sommità Relais’s panoramic terrace becomes the perfect place to enjoy our signature cocktail, “Cielo che Spritz!”, a tribute to our gourmet Cielo Restaurant and to the infinite sky that embraces Ostuni. A fresh sip, accompanied by small bites, as the golden light sets the city’s rooftops aglow.

🍷 Al-Fresco Lunch at the Garden Bistrot of La Sommità Relais: Among Citrus, Flowers, and History
At the heart of our residence lies an inner courtyard — a secret garden where stone meets greenery, seasonal flowers, and the scent of citrus. Here, we invite you to enjoy an al-fresco lunch designed to highlight seasonal flavors in an intimate and secluded setting. The menu evolves with nature and tells the story of Puglia through authenticity and simplicity.

Chef’s specialties include:

Raw from the sea, squid, basil mayonnaise and pollen, purple shrimp oil and black pepper, tarbouriech oyster, reduced vinegar and lime zest, red tuna tartare and green sauce 
The tubetties with scampi sauce, rocket and candied lemon
The orecchietta, Senatore Cappelli orecchiette with Lucanian lamb ragù, lemon and laurel
Fava bean cream and its sides: mixed greens, olives, ‘friggitelli’ peppers and sweet-and-sour onions
Grilled sea bass with peas, potatoes, ‘Verdeca’ sauce and pepper 

🌸 Wellness at La Sommità Relais
Unwind in our small oasis of tranquility, where you can choose from personalized massages, aromatic rituals, and relaxing treatments. An authentic wellness experience in an intimate, rejuvenating environment.

Chef’s specialties include:

• Raw from the sea, squid, basil mayonnaise and pollen, purple shrimp oil and black pepper, tarbouriech oyster, reduced vinegar and lime zest, red tuna tartare and green sauce 

• The tubetties with scampi sauce, rocket and candied lemon

• The orecchietta, Senatore Cappelli orecchiette with Lucanian lamb ragù, lemon and laurel

• Fava bean cream and its sides: mixed greens, olives, ‘friggitelli’ peppers and sweet-and-sour onions

•Grilled sea bass with peas, potatoes, ‘Verdeca’ sauce and pepper 

🌸 Wellness at La Sommità Relais
Unwind in our small oasis of tranquility, where you can choose from personalized massages, aromatic rituals, and relaxing treatments. An authentic wellness experience in an intimate, rejuvenating environment.

May is the perfect time to experience the most authentic Puglia, with exclusive experiences, refined hospitality, and enchanting landscapes. We look forward to welcoming you at La Sommità Relais to make every day special.

April 12 -15, 2025 

The Amerigo Vespucci, known as the most beautiful ship in the world, has embarked on an extraordinary journey around the globe, twenty years after its last circumnavigation. Departing on July 1, 2023, it will sail for 20 months, reaching 5 continents, 30 countries, and 35 ports, covering over 46,000 nautical miles. In addition to training the Officer Cadets of the Italian Navy, the ship will carry out a significant diplomatic and cultural mission.

For over 30 years, it has been committed to environmental protection, collaborating with UNICEF, WWF, and Marevivo. Thanks to its international missions, it is considered a true floating embassy of Italy, promoting Made in Italy excellence and strengthening international relations through events and initiatives in some of the world’s most iconic ports.

According to the official schedule, the Vespucci will dock in Brindisi from April 12 to April 15, 2025. During this stop, it will be moored at the city’s port, offering visitors the chance to explore its rich history and unique features.

Admission will be free, but prior booking is required, with reservations opening on March 29, 2025. For details on how to book and visiting hours, it is recommended to check the official websitehttps://tourvespucci.it/en/

For those looking to enjoy an exclusive experience while visiting the Vespucci, there is the opportunity to stay at La Sommità Relais, a charming historic residence located in the heart of Ostuni’s historical centre. This refined boutique hotel offers a unique atmosphere of elegance and relaxation, perfect for a luxurious stay while discovering the beauty of Puglia.

The arrival of the Amerigo Vespucci in Brindisi is a prestigious event, providing a unique opportunity to admire one of the most fascinating ships in history and celebrate Italy’s proud maritime heritage.

Easter is an event deeply rooted in the ancient religious and popular traditions of the region, offering an authentic and evocative experience that immerses visitors in a journey of faith, culture, and unique flavors.

Easter celebrations in Puglia have deep historical roots, with centuries-old rituals passed down from generation to generation, creating moments of intense spirituality and collective involvement. Among the most evocative processions of Holy Week, some stand out: the “Processione della Desolata” in Canosa di Puglia, a ritual full of emotion, touching with its sorrowful choir of women dressed in black; the “Processione della Sacra Spina” in Andria, linked to an ancient legend steeped in faith; and the “Penitential Procession of the Virgin Addolorata” in Trani, which takes place at dawn on Good Friday, creating a solemn and intense atmosphere as it winds through the city. In Francavilla Fontana, the tradition of the “Pappamusci,” barefoot hooded penitents, adds an emotional impact to Holy Week.

Another place where Easter takes on a unique charm is Ostuni, the famous “White City,” with its maze of whitewashed alleys and majestic churches. Here, the evocative “Processione dei Misteri” enacts the Passion of Christ, with sacred statues parading in the dim light of torches, accompanied by the haunting sound of funeral marches. The mystical atmosphere that envelops the city makes Ostuni an unmissable destination for those wishing to experience Easter amid faith, tradition, and timeless beauty.

But Easter in Puglia is not only about religiosity and spirituality: it is also a journey of taste, exploring the authentic flavors of local cuisine. Tables set for the occasion offer traditional dishes that celebrate the genuine ingredients of the land and the culinary knowledge passed down through generations.

For those wishing to enjoy Easter in an exclusive setting, the Cielo restaurant, located inside La Sommità Relais in the heart of Ostuni, offers a dedicated Easter menu, creatively designed yet always linked to the gastronomic traditions of Puglia.

Between the blue of the Adriatic Sea and the golden expanses of centuries-old olive trees, Puglia offers breathtaking views that make Easter even more special. Strolling through the trulli of Alberobello, admiring the imposing Romanesque cathedrals of Bari and Trani, visiting the spectacular Castellana Caves, or getting lost in the charming alleys of Ostuni are just a few of the experiences that enrich a stay in this extraordinary land during the Easter holidays.

Whether for faith, culture, or simply the desire to discover, Easter in Puglia offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of a region that never fails to surprise with its millennia-old history, enchanting landscapes, and warm hospitality. The experience is further enriched by staying at La Sommità Relais, in the heart of Ostuni’s historic center. From here, you can explore the Easter traditions of the city and its marvelous surroundings.

The Procession of the Mysteries of Ostuni

It is one of the most evocative moments of Holy Week, a deeply spiritual experience that involves the entire city every Good Friday. On April 18, 2025, as the sun sets, the procession will depart from the Basilica Concattedrale, winding through the white streets of the historic center. The statues depicting the Passion of Christ, carried on the shoulders of the hooded confreres, advance amidst the haunting sound of funeral marches and the solemnity of the faithful, creating a unique and touching atmosphere.

Attending the Procession of the Mysteries is not only an opportunity to witness a religious event but also a chance to be transported by tradition, history, and the deep identity of this land. It is an experience that touches the heart, a journey through time and faith, immersed in the unique beauty of Ostuni, with its whitewashed houses and breathtaking views of the Valle d’Itria.

If you’re planning to visit Puglia during Easter, don’t miss this extraordinary celebration that will surely move you and leave an unforgettable memory. Stay at La Sommità Relais, where every moment is enriched with charm and tradition.

An Unforgettable Experience

When you think of Ostuni, the “White City,” it’s impossible not to imagine its breathtaking panorama, with the sea fading into the horizon and the characteristic streets climbing up the hill. And when you add an aperitif on the stunning panoramic terrace of La Sommità Relais to this already enchanting scene, the experience becomes truly unique.

The Belvedere Terrace is one of the most exclusive spots in Ostuni, a place where time seems to stand still. Located inside an ancient palace, the terrace offers a spectacular view of the Puglian countryside with the sea on the horizon, framed by the warm colors of summer sunsets and the blue sky embracing the Adriatic coast. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy an outdoor aperitif, surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of this exclusive corner.

If you’re looking for a special spot to end the day or begin an unforgettable evening, the Belvedere Terrace is the answer. With its breathtaking views, unique cocktails, and refined atmosphere, it is undoubtedly one of the most exclusive places in Ostuni, where every aperitif transforms into a memorable experience.

The Apulian countryside offers breathtaking and soothing landscapes, dotted with olive trees, almond trees, carob trees, prickly pears, cherry trees, and vineyards. A rugged and arid land that, despite its challenges, gives birth to genuine products with intense, unique flavors, shaped by centuries of tradition.

Walking through the Apulian countryside means immersing yourself in a world that tells stories of hard work and passion. You’ll encounter elderly farmers sowing or harvesting ripe fruits, marvel at the vibrant colors nature creates, and let your senses indulge in the beauty of the surroundings. Walking on the red earth, which holds centuries of history, also means learning to respect the cycles of the seasons and living in harmony with nature, which never lies.

As you explore the rural areas of Puglia, you’ll discover century-old farms that preserve the tradition of producing extra virgin olive oil, fine DOC wines, and durum wheat. Here, you’ll recognize the culture of a land that still carries the warmth of its people and the richness of a past that continues to live through its daily traditions, telling a story that never fails to captivate.