Villaggio Turistico Camping Parco degli Ulivi

Some of those little boats you spot whizzing away into the distance from your deckchair on Peschici beach are steering to the Tremiti Islands from the port in Termoli (an hour and 20 minutes’ drive). Part of the Gargano National Park, these islands are just splendid for a day lounging on beaches or zipping between dive sites. There are a couple of lakes around here for a scenic stroll and wildlife watching activities, including Lake Lesina (an hour) with its big eel population and observation deck and Lago di Varano (45 minutes). In need of a good hike? Rely upon the Riserva naturale della Foresta Umbra (35 minutes), a UNESCO World Heritage site with karst land, endangered animals and 15 hiking or mountain biking trails. A couple of pilgrimage sites are within reach – Monte Sant'Angelo (an hour and 15 minutes) and San Giovanni Rotondo (an hour and 25 minutes) – but if you’re keen to stick close to beaches at all times, do so in the seaside resort of Mattinata (an hour and five minutes).