Castellano Caves, Volare White Cliffs & Polignano A Mare

Behold the natural underground wonders of the labyrinthine Grotte di Castellana caves and enjoy free time in the seaside village of Polignano a Mare. You’ll drive to the scenic Itria Valley and find the limestone Grotte di Castellana, discovered in 1938 yet created millions of years ago when an ancient sea retreated. Learn the Grotte di Castellana comprises the longest network of caves in Italy and, as you walk through them, treasure extraordinary natural sights such as the massive main chamber, which glows under natural light. Study stalactites and stalagmites named to reflect their familiar shapes, which include an owl, a slab of bacon and even the Madonna. You’ll agree the White Cave truly captures the imagination, as its uniformly snowy alabaster walls, enhanced by the sparkling crystals coating them, are said to shine brighter than any other cave walls in the world. Returning to the coast, appreciate time on your own in the cliffside village of Polignano a Mare. Stroll alluring streets beside architecture that reflects Arab, Byzantine, Spanish and Norman styles, perhaps spotting the stately archway for the gate that was once the only access into this utterly entrancing town.