Santa Maria Leuce - Gallipoli - Matera - Taranto 25-27 June by car

The wind has come up and it seems like we will be "grounded" until Sunday. Decided that we should visit Gallipoli, Taranto and Matera.  Set off about midday.

First stop Gallipoli. We were mightily impressed with this beautifully preserved old town on an island. So much so that we stayed for lunch, too much food, but had our first pizza. Although the chef looked like he was in gangman style.

After that lunch Carl and Pete needed a swim and so show off their bods to the Italian girls.

We took a very roundabout way to Matera. Eventually noticed that the arrows on the road signs were not pointing in the way we were used to. Or maybe it was just our navigation. But had a lovely drive up to Matera which is situated on a hill and next to a gorge. 

Pete showed his cultural side by suggesting that we visit Matera becauce it will be Cultral city of Europe 2019.

Just a peek at what we had in store.

The BnB owner was not there so we had lots of help and involvement from these two ladies, apparently born in Matera.

Waiting for the BnB owner to arrive. He never did! So we went further down the street to a great place, cheap, two separate bedrooms and bathroom, all for 70 euros. Plus breakfast. But, breakfast in Italy is a sweet croissant and coffee.

Following photos from a beautiful Matera, a place we just have to visit again.

Drove back to Taranto. Not quite like Gallipoli, with the old city on an island, but a mixture of extreme dilapidation and spruced up buildings.    Karaoke Taranto style on the way home from the restaurant.

Night cap with remains of Greek temple in bakground

North side of the old town, Taranto

South side of the new town, Taranto was actually very nice!