If your family loves the outdoors, Salento and Valle d’Itria have plenty of adventures beyond the beach. From nature parks with easy trails to exciting adventure parks up in the trees, kids can burn energy and explore Puglia’s countryside. Much of Puglia is flat or gently hilly, so even young hikers can join walks. During summer, plan hikes either early morning or towards sunset to avoid the midday heat. Many parks have picnic areas, and you’ll find that locals often bring the whole family (grandparents included) for nature outings. Here are some great outdoor family activities to check out after an action packed morning at the Museo dei Bambini Lecce.
Torre Guaceto Reserve
This WWF-protected nature reserve offers an easy introduction to hiking and wildlife. A flat trail leads through dunes and Mediterranean scrub to secluded beaches and a coastal marshland. It’s great for bird-watching (you might spot herons or even flamingos) and teaching kids about ecosystems. At the visitor center, you can sometimes rent bikes or join guided snorkeling tours in the shallow bay to see fish and sea turtles in their natural habitat. The combination of a light hike and a beach swim makes it a hit with families. (Info: No cars are allowed inside the reserve – park at the entrance and take the free shuttle “trenino” to the beach trail. Entry is free, guided activities may have a fee.)
Castellana Caves
Venture underground into a fantastical cave system that will spark any child’s imagination. The Castellana Caves offer guided tours through illuminated caverns filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Kids who love adventure will be thrilled walking through the cave’s otherworldly tunnels, and on a hot day the cool underground temperature is a bonus. There are two tour lengths (1 hour and 2 hours); families often choose the shorter 1-hour tour, which is plenty long for kids. In summer, they sometimes run a special family-friendly tour with storytelling to engage children. (Info: The cave complex has a café, picnic tables, and restrooms at the entrance. Strollers aren’t allowed in the caves, so use a baby carrier for infants. Helmet and guides are provided with the ticket – around €12–€16 for adults, discounts for kids.)
Adventure Parks
For active kids, Puglia’s adventure parks are a fantastic way to spend a morning. Two popular options are Indiana Park in Castellana Grotte and Ciuchino Birichino near Ostuni. At these parks, you’ll find rope courses, zip-lines, and climbing challenges suspended between the trees. Courses are designed by height/age: there are easy pathways with rope bridges and swings for young children (even as young as 3, with safety harnesses), and more challenging zip-line routes for teens and parents. It’s a safe, supervised environment for kids to test their courage and balance high above the ground. Parents can either join in or watch from below the oak trees. (Info: These parks usually open in the afternoon and evenings in summer (to avoid midday heat). Helmets and harnesses are provided; closed-toe shoes required. Expect an entry fee ~€15–€20 per person for a session.)
Coastal Cycling & Horseback Riding
If your kids are comfortable on a bike, consider a leisurely ride through the old towns of Valle d’Itria. The historic centers of towns like Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Martina Franca are often pedestrian-friendly and offer a charming backdrop of whitewashed buildings and winding alleys. While the countryside has beautiful views, some country roads can be narrow and busy—better for experienced cyclists. Bike rentals (with child seats or kids’ bikes) are available in many towns. Another memorable option is horseback riding: some masserie and stables offer short horseback excursions suitable for families, even beginners. Check out Masseria Sant’Angelo or Masseria Fossa. Trotting through olive orchards or along a beach at sunset on horseback can be a magical family experience (typically ages 8+ can ride solo, younger kids may ride tandem with an adult or instructor). (Tip: Always wear helmets – reputable tour providers will supply them. Evening rides are best in summer to avoid heat.)
Porto Selvaggio Natural Park
A wonderful mix of pine forest and sea, Porto Selvaggio is a regional park where families can enjoy a short hike and a rewarding swim. A shaded trail (about 20–30 minutes walk) leads through woods to a rocky cove with crystal-clear water. Older kids and teens will love snorkeling here – the cove’s name means “Wild Port” and it has fish and underwater springs making the water refreshingly cool. The hike itself is manageable for school-age kids (the path is uneven, so bring sturdy shoes). There are no services in the cove (it’s part of a protected area), but that adds to the adventure – you’re in pure nature. (Tip: Bring a picnic and plenty of water. Little ones might need a carrier for the hike back up, but the swim at the end is worth it!)
Conclusion
Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, exploring nature in Salento and Valle d’Itria is a great way to experience the region’s beauty at your own pace. These outdoor adventures offer the perfect mix of fun, freedom, and fresh air—ideal for making memories together as a family. So pack some snacks, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to discover a wilder side of Puglia.
