Gargano

Third trip to the Gargano, destination the "Punta Lunga" campsite in Vieste. It encloses a rocky headland, from which it takes its name, and some lovely secluded coves, where even at Ferragosto there are very few people; you just have to walk a bit among the rocks and sun-baked paths, but it's worth it. The area is always swept by wind, which lifts the very fine sand. Not to be missed is the boat trip to discover the sea caves: three hours of waves and jolts on a boat that's not exactly a cruise ship, but the splendid views are worth the suffering. The little alleys of Vieste are picturesque, among a thousand workshops and small shops; cheap and in an enviable position is the restaurant "Sapore di mare", outdoors in the old Vieste, right on the promontory.

Nearby, perched atop a cliff, is Peschici, where we dined beneath the Castle; for those with a bit of time, the Umbra Forest and Monte Sant'Angelo, worth at least half a day.