Il Gargano it is one of the most fascinating areas of the Puglia: a territory that combines crystal-clear sea, ancient forests, historic villages and authentic traditions. From Vieste a Peschici, via Manfredonia, San Giovanni Rotondo e Monte Sant'Angelo, Gargano National Park It offers countless experiences to enjoy, including nature, culture, adventure, and gastronomy.
If you are planning a holiday in Gargano and want to discover original activities, guided excursions and local experiences, here you will find 14 ideas To make your trip even more special. From ATV adventures in the forest to boat trips among sea caves, from horseback riding to e-bike tours, to cooking classes and tastings of local products.
Discover some of the best excursions and experiences in Gargano and contact the organizers directly for information and reservations.
Horseback riding along the Vieste coast
Discover the coast of Vieste from a different perspective with a suggestive horse ride in the area of Porticello Tower, overlooking the Tufara bay.
The route runs along the coastal stretch between the bays of Moline e Scialmarino, a few kilometers from the center of Vieste. You'll pass through hilly paths, quarries, beaches, and landscapes shaped by history and nature. The jagged cliffs, fossils discovered during stone cutting, Mediterranean scrub, and ancient trabucchi make the scenery particularly fascinating.
The rides are also suitable for those riding for the first time, thanks to the presence of qualified instructors and docile horses.
You can choose the afternoon tour, lasting about an hour, or the most suggestive sunset tour, which allows you to admire the golden colors of the sun on the Gargano coast.
Private boat excursions with Vieste Sea Adventure
With Vieste Sea Adventure You can depart from the port of Vieste for a boat excursion to discover the wonders of the Gargano coast. You can choose a private boat with a skipper or join a small-group excursion.
Together with Michele, an expert skipper from Gargano, you will sail between sea caves, high white cliffs, hidden coves and bays reachable only by seaDuring the tour, you may also have the chance to spot the dolphins that frequent the Adriatic waters.
Customized experiences and special tours are available atsunrise with breakfast or sunset with aperitif, ideal for experiencing the sea during the most evocative moments of the day.
Vieste Sea Adventure excursions are also pet friendly: four-legged friends can board together with their owners.
For information you can call 389 783 3270 or 342 092 1002, or write to info@viesteseadventure.it.
Grandma Marianna's Cooking Class in Vieste
La Grandma Marianna's Cooking Class It's an experience for those who want to experience Puglia's culinary tradition firsthand, in an authentic, family-friendly setting in the heart of the Gargano.
During the activity, participants are guided in the preparation of different formats of typical fresh pasta from Puglia, including the ever-present orecchiette. Through simple gestures and techniques passed down through the ages, Nonna Marianna will teach guests how to work the dough and create the characteristic pasta shape.
The experience takes place at theFarm Passion Nature, immersed among the centuries-old olive trees of the Vieste countryside and located just a few minutes from the sea, the town center and the Pizzomunno beach.
The Cooking Class is designed for adults, families, and groups of friends who want to experience an activity rooted in the local area, home cooking, and the most authentic flavors of Puglia.
At the end of the activity, upon request, it will be possible to taste the preparations, accompanied by the farm's genuine and organic products.
Excursion to the sea caves with the Desirèe motorboat
With the Motorboat Desirèe You can set off from the port of Vieste to discover one of the most beautiful and spectacular stretches of the Gargano coast.
Navigation takes place along the coastal strip between Vieste and the Bay of Zagare, characterized by high white cliffs, small coves, stacks and numerous natural caves carved out over the centuries by the wind and the sea.
During the excursion, a guide will explain, in Italian and English, the characteristics of the sea caves and the stories associated with the Gargano coast. Comfortable seating and restrooms are available on board. four-legged friends they are welcome.
In addition to coastal excursions by motorboat, there are also available private and personalized tours with skipper and the service of boat rental.
The departure takes place from South Pier of the port of Vieste, on the Vespucci PromenadeFor information you can call 334 1377729 or write to motobarcadedesiree@gmail.com.
Wine tastings at the Merinum Cellars
Immersed in the centuries-old olive groves of Padre Pio estate, you can experience a journey through the scents, flavours and stories of the Gargano with the tastings offered by Merinum Cellars.
Cinzia, wine producer and sommelier, will accompany guests in the tasting of three glasses of wine, telling the story of the local vines, the characteristics of the territory and the winemaking processes.
The wines are accompanied by a selection of typical zero-kilometer products, including cured meats, cheeses, bruschetta, chef's creations and the inevitable extra virgin olive oil from Gargano.
The experience also includes a visit to the Merinum Cellars and a sunset walk in the vineyard located at the foot of the Umbra Forest, in the heart of the Gargano National Park.
There are several experiences dedicated to wine and the territory, as well as engaging workshops also designed for children.
Excursions, tours, and e-bike rentals with Mooveng
With Moving You can explore the Umbra Forest and the Gargano National Park in a sustainable way by taking part in an organised tour or by renting a mountain bike or an e-bike.
Gargano is an ideal area for cycling and outdoor enthusiasts. Among woods, hills, scenic roads, and dirt tracks, it offers hundreds of kilometers of trails suitable for mountain biking, road cycling, and hiking on dirt roads.
Mooveng offers numerous organized itineraries, but also allows you to create Customized Tours based on the interests, preparation and time available of the participants.
You can choose a simple day trip, a guided tour, or organize an entire cycling holiday in Gargano. Thanks to e-bikes, even the most challenging routes are now accessible to a wider audience.
For information and reservations you can also contact Mooveng via WhatsApp at 328 955 9567.
Boat trips to the Tremiti Islands: the best tours
Discover the Tremiti Islands by boat It's one of the most beautiful experiences to have during a holiday in Gargano. Located off the coast of Puglia, the archipelago is famous for its crystal-clear waters, sea caves, pristine coves, and seabeds ideal for snorkeling.
Boat excursions allow you to explore places difficult to reach by land and experience the sea in total relaxation. You can choose a full day of swimming breaks and spectacular views, a boat tour with an aperitif, or a romantic sunset experience.
Tours mainly start fromSan Domino Island and are suitable for couples, families and groups of friends.
How to reach the Tremiti Islands from Vieste
In the spring and summer several ferries connect the port of Vieste to the Tremiti Islands. The journey time is about two hours, but may vary depending on the company, the vessel used, and sea conditions.
The islands can also be reached from the ports of Termoli, Peschici, Rodi Garganico and ManfredoniaOnce you arrive at the Tremiti Islands, you can take one of the many boat excursions departing from San Domino.
It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially in July and August, and carefully check the departure and return times before booking an excursion.
Day trip on a Sorrento gozzo with snorkeling
Discover the magic of the Tremiti Islands with a day in Sorrento goiter, an experience designed for those who want to explore the archipelago by sea, swim in its clear waters and spend a few hours in total relaxation.
Departure is scheduled at 11:00 from the port of San Domino IslandAboard a typical nine-meter Sorrento gozzo, accompanied by an expert skipper, you will sail among some of the most evocative places in the archipelago.
The itinerary includes theCretaccio Islet, the Scoglio dell'Elefante, the Grotta delle Viole, the Grotta del Bue Marino e Cala Tonda.
The excursion includes several stops at the most beautiful coves, ideal for swimming and snorkeling among the Tremiti Islands' seabed. An aperitif with typical local products and wine will also be served on board.
The boat has a freshwater shower and large sundecks, to enjoy the day in complete comfort.
Boat trip to the Tremiti Islands with aperitif
This boat trip to the Tremiti Islands with an aperitif is ideal for those who want to experience the Gargano sea in a relaxing way, alternating sailing with swimming stops in the crystal-clear waters of the archipelago.
The excursion is available both in the morning and in the afternoon. The morning departure is scheduled at 10:30 from the port of San Domino, passing through San Nicola by 10.40am and returning between 2.15pm and 2.30pm.
The afternoon tour instead starts at 14:30 and ends approximately at 18:30 pm.
During the cruise, you'll explore the Tremiti coast and some of the most picturesque coves, with plenty of opportunities for swimming. An aperitif with traditional products and local white wine will be served on board.
The gozzo has an awning, cushions, a ladder, and a shower. The experience is suitable for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Sunset aperitif on a boat in the Tremiti Islands
Live a Sunset aperitif on the Tremiti Islands It's a captivating experience, perfect for those who want to relax and admire the archipelago during one of the most fascinating moments of the day.
The departure takes place from the port ofSan Domino IslandWhile sailing, you can admire the coasts, caves, and coves of the Tremiti Islands illuminated by the warm light of the sunset, listening to the skipper's stories.
An aperitif with typical local products and wine will be served on board, to be enjoyed while the sun sets over the sea. An experience particularly suited to couples and those looking for a special moment during their holiday.
Before booking, it's important to check the last ferry departure times. If the tour ends after the last available departure, you'll need to schedule a return. overnight stay on the Tremiti Islands.
Guided spiritual tour of Padre Pio's places
San Giovanni Rotondo It is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Europe thanks to the figure of Padre Pio of PietrelcinaWith this private guided tour you will visit the most significant places linked to his life and spiritual history.
The experience includes a visit to the ancient 16th-century church, the new church where Padre Pio celebrated Mass, the convent, and the cell where he lived for over fifty years.
The journey continues in the great Sanctuary of San Pio, designed by the architect Renzo Piano, one of the largest churches in Italy and capable of hosting thousands of faithful.
An intense and evocative experience, ideal for those who wish to discover the spirituality and history of one of the world's most beloved saints.
