Alta Murgia National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, hiking and biking routes, local culture, and more in Alta Murgia National Park with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Alta Murgia National Park

Located in the Puglia region of Southern Italy, Alta Murgia National Park is a stunning landscape that covers more than 65,000 hectares. The park is named after the Murgia plateau, which is characterized by deep canyons, rocky ridges, rolling hills, and lush grasslands. The park is rich in biodiversity, with a variety of flora and fauna that thrives in this unique ecosystem. From hiking and biking to exploring historic sites and enjoying local cuisine, Alta Murgia is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

List of Places to Visit in Alta Murgia National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hypogeum Oil Mill - This fascinating attraction is a unique example of an underground oil mill that was used to produce olive oil from the 16th to the 19th century. The mill is located in the town of Altamura and offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

  • Castel del Monte - This famous medieval castle was built by Emperor Frederick II in the 13th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its unique octagonal shape and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Grotte di Castellana - This underground cave system is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. Visitors can explore the stunning stalactites and stalagmites that make up this natural wonder.

Natural Attractions of Alta Murgia National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monte Castelletto - This 1,000-foot mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for hiking.

  • Lake of San Giuliano - This picturesque lake is located in the heart of the park and is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and picnicking.

  • Murgia Timone - This area of the park is known for its rugged limestone landscapes and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Alta Murgia National Park

  • Sentiero del Grano - This 6-mile hiking trail offers stunning views of the countryside and passes through fields of wheat and barley.

  • Ciclovia dell’Acquedotto - This 12-mile bike trail follows the route of an ancient aqueduct and passes through some of the most scenic areas of the park.

  • Sentiero delle Gravine - This 7-mile hiking trail takes visitors through the beautiful Gravina canyon and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Alta Murgia National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting Tour - Tour the local wineries and sample some of the best wines in the region.

  • Truffle Hunting Tour - Experience the thrill of hunting for truffles in the park’s lush forests.

  • Olive Oil Tasting Tour - Sample the delicious local olive oil and learn about the traditional methods used to produce it.

Week-Long Itinerary for Alta Murgia National Park

Day Activity
1 Explore Altamura and visit the Hypogeum Oil Mill
2 Visit Castel del Monte and hike to Monte Castelletto
3 Take a guided tour of the Grotte di Castellana
4 Explore the Murgia Timone and go mountain biking
5 Relax by the Lake of San Giuliano or explore the nearby countryside
6 Take a wine tasting tour of the local wineries
7 Take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional local dishes

Food and Drink Scene of Alta Murgia National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Burrata - This creamy cheese is a local specialty and is often served with fresh bread and olive oil.

  • Orecchiette - This handmade pasta is a staple of Puglian cuisine and is typically served with a tomato-based sauce.

  • Caciocavallo - This semi-hard cheese is made from cow’s milk and is often served grilled or fried.

Local Beverages

  • Negroamaro - This full-bodied red wine is a local favorite and pairs perfectly with many of the dishes served in the area.

  • Primitivo - This dry red wine is known for its rich, fruity flavor and is a popular choice among wine enthusiasts.

  • Limoncello - This sweet, lemon-flavored liqueur is often served as a digestive after dinner.

Where to Stay in Alta Murgia National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Masseria Barbera - This charming guesthouse is set in a restored farmhouse and offers visitors a taste of traditional Puglian hospitality.

  • Hotel Svevo - This modern hotel is located in the heart of Altamura and is a great choice for those looking for comfort and convenience.

  • Agriturismo Il Cardoncello - This rustic farmhouse offers guests an authentic experience of life in the Italian countryside.

What to Buy in Alta Murgia National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ceramics - The region is known for its beautiful hand-painted ceramics, which make great souvenirs.

  • Olive Oil - Puglia produces some of the best olive oil in the world, and visitors can take home a bottle of the local oil to enjoy back home.

  • Handmade Pasta - Orecchiette and other types of handmade pasta are great souvenirs and make for great gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Alta Murgia National Park

  • Festa di Sant’Ivo - This traditional festival is held every year in the town of Corato in honor of the patron saint of lawyers and notaries.

  • Easter Celebrations - Easter is a big holiday in the region, and many towns hold processions and other events to mark the occasion.

  • Pizzica Music and Dance - This traditional folk music and dance style is popular in the region and is often performed at local festivals and events.

Best Time to Visit Alta Murgia National Park

The best time to visit Alta Murgia National Park is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. Summer can be quite hot, and many locals close their businesses and leave for the coast during this time of year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Alta Murgia National Park

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and wine.

  • Do explore the park’s hiking and biking trails.

  • Do respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the park’s natural resources.

  • Don’t ignore local customs and traditions.

  • Don’t be disrespectful to other visitors or locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Alta Murgia National Park

  • Be aware of the risk of wildfires during the summer months.

  • Be aware of the potential for tick bites, especially during the spring and summer.

  • Be cautious when hiking or biking in more remote areas of the park.

Health in Alta Murgia National Park

  • The tap water in the area is safe to drink.

  • Be sure to use sunscreen and insect repellent when spending time outdoors.

  • If you are planning to hike or bike, be sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Getting to Alta Murgia National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Alta Murgia National Park

  • Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (BRI) - 25 miles

  • Brindisi - Salento Airport (BDS) - 80 miles

Bus Stations Near Alta Murgia National Park

  • Altamura Bus Station

  • Gravina in Puglia Bus Station

Other Options

  • Renting a car is a great way to explore the park and the surrounding area.

  • Taxis and private car services are available from most nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Alta Murgia National Park

  • The best way to explore the park is on foot or by bike.

  • Cars and motorcycles are allowed in the park, but visitors should be aware of the limited parking and narrow roads.

  • There are also several guided tours and excursions available that offer transportation.

Where to Go Next from Alta Murgia National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Matera - This historic city is known for its ancient cave dwellings and stunning architecture.

  • Polignano a Mare - This picturesque seaside town is famous for its stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters.

  • Locorotondo - This charming town is known for its white-washed buildings and winding streets.

Conclusion

Alta Murgia National Park is an under-the-radar destination that offers a wealth of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re hiking through the park’s canyons, exploring medieval castles, or sampling the delicious local cuisine, Alta Murgia is sure to leave a lasting impression. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of this unique corner of Italy.

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