I’ve often wondered what’s so special about walking for days in any weather when you can quickly zip from one place to the other by car or public transportation. So I gave it a try. While there’s no shortage of exciting paths to explore in Italy, I decided to walk the Via Peuceta, a relatively new trail that winds through Apulia and Basilicata.

This 170km route goes from Bari to Matera in seven stages. This isn’t a religious pilgrimage but rather a complete immersion into the rich cultural and historical heritage of this beautiful corner of southern Italy. I was sold the minute I browsed the dedicated website illustrating the path’s ever-changing scenery.