Gargano Panoramic Road Itinerary
The Gargano Panoramic Road is a 171 km road trip starting in the city of Rodi Garganico in Italy. The road trip takes you through the towns of Vieste, Mattinata, and Vico del Gargano, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the Gargano National Park. The best time to take this drive is during the summer months, when you can enjoy the sun-drenched beaches along the route. The road is mostly in good condition, but some sections may be narrow and winding.
This road trip offers a high-level experience and memories that will last a lifetime. It is suitable for all types of drivers, and can be done with a moderate budget. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Gargano Panoramic Road, and make sure to bring a camera to capture the beauty of the Italian countryside.
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START
Rodi Garganico
Distance 170 km
Driving time 5.0 h
Pace: slow
39.2 kWh
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Rodi Garganico is an idyllic coastal town situated in the Gargano Peninsula of the Apulia region in Italy. It’s a perfect starting point to the spectacular Gargano Panoramic Road, a scenic road trip with breathtaking views of the peninsula.
When in Rodi Garganico, travelers should explore the local sights, such as the Church of San Domenico, the Church of Santa Maria della Neve, the Castle of Rodi, and the Tower of the Angel. Take a stroll along the waterfront to admire the natural beauty of the area, or take a boat tour around the harbor to appreciate the stunning views of the coastline.
If you’re traveling to Rodi Garganico by air, the closest international airport is Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (IATA code BRI). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip around the Gargano Peninsula.
Rodi Garganico is the perfect starting point to discover the beauty of the Gargano Peninsula. From here, you can embark on the Gargano Panoramic Road, a journey that will take you to some of the most stunning sights of the region.
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Rodi Garganico
- Vieste
Distance 41 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: slow
9.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip from Rodi Garganico to Vieste, a journey of 42 km and a driving time of fewer than 2 hours. Along the way, you'll pass through Peschici, with plenty of scenic views and winding roads. Be sure to keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road. As you pass through each town, take the time to explore the attractions and amenities they have to offer. In Rodi Garganico, don't miss the Torre di Ruggiano, a medieval tower along the coast. In Peschici, the Grotta dei Cervi is a must-see, a large cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Finally, in Vieste, be sure to check out the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a stunning Romanesque-style church. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Vieste - Italy - Europe - Scenic Drive - Needpix.com
Vieste - Italy - Europe - Scenic Drive - pixabay.com
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2
Vieste
- Mattinata
Distance 50 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: slow
11.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 50km road trip from Vieste to Mattinata and be amazed by the stunning beauty of the Gargano National Park! The drive will take you fewer than 2 hours, so you can make the most of this journey and see the best of what these two places have to offer.
Start your journey in Vieste, a charming fishing village in the Gargano National Park. Here, you can explore the picturesque harbor and visit the iconic Vieste Castle, built in the 16th century. Make sure to also take a stroll along the promenade to admire the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
Continue your journey to Mattinata and be mesmerized by the stunning views of the sea and the lush vegetation of the Gargano National Park. Here, you can visit the Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo, a beautiful pilgrimage site, or take a cable car ride to the top of the Monte Saraceno for breathtaking views of the whole region.
As you drive through the winding roads, take a moment to admire the stunning views of the landscape. Keep in mind that some sections of the road are narrow, so be careful and drive safely.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Mattinata - Italy - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Mattinata - Italy - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Mattinata
- Vico del Gargano
Distance 64 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: slow
14.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a road trip through the stunning Apulian countryside, starting in Mattinata and ending in Vico del Gargano. Along the way, you'll pass through Monte Sant'Angelo, a small town nestled in the Gargano National Park. With a total distance of 64km and a driving time of less than two hours, this is a great way to take in the beauty of the region. As you drive, take in the winding roads and narrow passes, and make sure to take in the stunning scenery. Along the way, you can stop in Monte Sant'Angelo to visit the Sanctuary of San Michele, a pilgrimage site for many Catholics. You can also explore the old town and its cobblestone streets. At the end of the trip, you'll reach Vico del Gargano, where you can take a stroll along the beach and admire the views of the Adriatic Sea. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Vico del Gargano - Italy - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Vico del Gargano
- Rodi Garganico
Distance 15 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: slow
3.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready to explore the beauty of Vico del Gargano and Rodi Garganico? This 15 km road trip between the two towns is a great way to take in the stunning views of the Gargano National Park. You'll be driving for less than an hour and will be able to take in the winding roads, narrow sections, and spectacular scenery. As you drive, keep an eye out for the best places to stop and explore. In Vico del Gargano, be sure to visit the Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo and the nearby beaches. In Rodi Garganico, take a stroll through the historic center and visit the beautiful Castle of Rodi Garganico. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Rodi Garganico - Italy - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Rodi Garganico
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Rodi Garganico is a charming fishing village on the Adriatic Sea in the Italian region of Apulia. It's the perfect destination for a road trip along the Gargano Panoramic Road, which stretches from Manfredonia to Rodi Garganico and offers stunning views of the area.
Rodi Garganico offers plenty of attractions for visitors. The old town center is a great place to explore, with its cobblestone streets and ancient churches. A must-see is the Torre di San Leonardo, a 15th-century watchtower that offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. The waterfront promenade is a great place for a stroll or a leisurely lunch.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Rodi Garganico offers a wide range of activities, including sailing, fishing, and horseback riding. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy.
The closest international airport to Rodi Garganico is Bari-Palese Airport (BRI). From there, it's a short drive to the village.
Rodi Garganico is the perfect end point for the Gargano Panoramic Road. With its stunning views, charming old town, and wide range of activities, it's the perfect place to wrap up a road trip.
Gargano Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Rodi Garganico
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End:
Rodi Garganico
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Distance:
170 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport (FOG)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an enthralling 171 km journey along the Gargano Panoramic Road, a treasure of Italy that weaves its path from Rodi Garganico to the edge of the Gargano Peninsula. This scenic route is a blend of awe-inspiring coastal vistas, verdant landscapes of the Gargano National Park, and charming towns rich in history and culture.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Rodi Garganico: Begin your adventure in this inviting coastal town, celebrated for its pristine beaches fringed by citrus groves that imbue the air with a sweet fragrance.
- Vieste: This town is a jewel on the coast, boasting dramatic sea cliffs and the iconic Pizzomunno monolith, a towering limestone landmark associated with a romantic local legend.
- Mattinata: Nestled between rolling hills and the sea, Mattinata is adorned with its delightful beach and is a gateway to explore intriguing archaeological sites that whisper tales of ancient times.
- Vico del Gargano: A medieval town that captivates with its historical architecture, Vico del Gargano is also your portal to the enchanting Forest Umbra, a primeval beech forest within Gargano National Park that's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Best Time to Go:
Experience this panoramic drive at its zenith during the summer months, when the Mediterranean climate is perfect for soaking in the sun and indulging in the area's vibrant beach life, though the shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
Potential Risks:
The charm of this coastal route comes with its share of narrow and serpentine Roads. It is prudent to drive with caution, particularly for those who are not accustomed to such mountainous terrain.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Gargano Panoramic Road is not only a feast for the eyes but also rich in biodiversity, as the Gargano National Park is known for its unique flora and fauna, including the presence of orchids and the endangered Italian sparrow.
- The route is a haven for food lovers, who can indulge in the regional specialties such as orecchiette pasta, fresh seafood, and the sublime olive oil from the ancient olive groves dotted along the landscape.
- This journey offers an array of activities beyond driving, from hiking in the national park to exploring hidden sea caves by boat.
A good choice for:
The Gargano Panoramic Road is more than just a drive; it is an immersive experience into the heart of Italy's majestic natural beauty and its rich tapestry of cultural heritage. With each curve and crest, it promises memories that will linger long after the journey's end.