Loggia di Pilato breathtaking views and paragliding

The Loggia di Pilato is in Monopoli, in Contrada Impalata. It's a panoramic spot where you can see the Valle d'Itria and its trulli. Although it's part of Monopoli, it's close to Alberobello and Locorotondo. So, it naturally connects these places.

From here, the view is wide. You can spot dry stone walls, vineyards, olive groves, and scattered farms. It's a perfect stop during a tour of the area's villages. Even if it's just for some photos or a short break in the quiet hills.

Getting there from Monopoli is easy. Just take the road towards Contrada Impalata, following signs for Alberobello. The climb is gentle, and the road winds through countryside homes and fields. Once at the top, park by the roadside. The viewpoint is just a few steps away. Traffic is usually light, but take it slow; some parts are narrow.

From Alberobello and Locorotondo, it's just a few minutes by car. Both routes pass through rural areas, offering glimpses of the typical Valle d'Itria landscape.

Thanks to its high position and open view towards the coast, the Loggia di Pilato is also used for tandem paragliding.

I'm not someone who loves being in the air. That's why the idea of paragliding came from mixed feelings. On one hand, curiosity about the landscape. On the other, the urge to challenge myself. It was more instinctive than planned, after a hike in the area.

During that time, I joined a trek through Monopoli's districts, walking between Impalata and Conchia. It's a countryside stretch that still holds a strong connection to local history and rural scenery. The path started from the Church of San Michele in Frangesto, along the old scenic road from Monopoli to Selva di Fasano, right at Loggia di Pilato.

Looking at these views from the hilltops, a question popped up: what would they look like from the sky? Tandem paragliding is the easiest way to experience this, even for those like me, who aren't naturally inclined to heights. Or at least, that's what I told myself to get convinced...

But I must admit, once in the air, the landscape changes scale. The Valle d'Itria, the sea just a few kilometers away, and Monopoli's countryside form a mosaic from above. It's made of natural geometries and vivid colors. In that silence, broken only by the wind's rustle, the challenge turns into wonder!

Before diving into practical details, let's clarify something important, especially for first-timers: flights are done with qualified instructor pilots. The paraglider is designed for maximum safety, even for beginners. No special physical requirements are needed; just good health is enough.

The school provides all technical gear. Passengers only need comfy clothes, boots or sports shoes, a jacket, and gloves in winter. During the flight, you can add a Full HD photo and video service. It mainly captures the passenger and is given at the end of the experience.

Flights occur at about 338 meters above sea level and just 7 kilometers from the sea. The activity is generally available from May to September, weather permitting. You can choose between a classic 15-minute flight or an adrenaline-pumping 30-minute one. The latter features more dynamic maneuvers and thermal gliding. I chose the classic flight for 120 euros. I didn't want to spend more or stay in the air too long for my first time.

Before takeoff, they explain the equipment, basic flight principles, and simple instructions for takeoff.

Takeoff Point

If you're coming from the north, the route is pretty straightforward. From Bari, take the state road 16 towards Brindisi. Pass the exits for Monopoli, then take the last exit, Capitolo - L'Assunta. From there, follow signs to Castellana Grotte and Contrada Impalata. After passing through Macchia di Monte, the landscape changes, and you'll see hills with antennas. Follow the road up the hill. Once at the top, turn right towards Castellana Grotte. After about 100 meters, turn right again towards the panoramic area of Loggia di Pilato. On good days, you can see paragliders already flying. Following them is often the easiest way to reach your destination. Alternatively, you can ask for directions at the Loggia di Pilato restaurant. It also serves as a meeting and refreshment point for Club Volaria members. If you're coming from the south, from Lecce or Brindisi, the initial route is the same. Take the state road 16 and exit at Capitolo - L'Assunta, then continue as described.

Useful Information

Once in the air, the feeling is different from what you might imagine. You don't feel a real "void" under your feet. Instead, there's a sense of continuity and stability. After the first moments of takeoff, your body quickly adjusts. Your mind stops focusing on the height, allowing you to enjoy the landscape and a surprisingly natural feeling of lightness.

The classic flight is generally calm and smooth. The paraglider moves gently through the air without sudden jerks. The currents are used progressively. Only with thermals might you feel slight variations, which are part of normal free flight dynamics. These are rarely bothersome, especially for first-timers.

An important aspect is the ability to tailor the flight to your needs. Before takeoff, you can tell the pilot if you want a more relaxed experience. This way, the flight avoids dynamic maneuvers, favoring a smooth and steady path. It's ideal for those not comfortable with heights.

From a panoramic perspective, the view from above is what makes this experience truly unique. You can clearly see the trulli scattered in the countryside, the regular shapes of the farmhouses, and the dry stone walls outlining the land's geometry. On clear days, you can see all the way to the sea, creating a view that connects the Itria Valley and the coast.

This variety of elements makes the flight from Loggia di Pilato particularly rewarding. In just a few minutes, you get a comprehensive view of the Apulian landscape. It's hard to achieve even with hikes or car-accessible viewpoints. It offers a broader and more harmonious understanding of the area.

The time of day also affects the experience. In the morning, the light is clearer and more defined, perfect for recognizing landscape details and its geometry. In the late afternoon, the light warms up, shadows lengthen, and the view takes on a softer, more suggestive tone. It's perfect for those seeking a more emotional and contemplative atmosphere.