Famous route

Gargano Coast

The Gargano promontory forms the spur of Italy's boot. Coastal roads link Vieste, Peschici and Mattinata, with detours inland to the Foresta Umbra and Monte Sant'Angelo.

Region: Apulia (province of Foggia)
Start / end: Vieste to Manfredonia
Highest peak: Monte Calvo, 1,065 m (3,494 ft)
Suggested time: 2 to 3 days
Best season: Late spring to early autumn

What should you know before visiting Gargano Coast?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about €5 (Italy).

The Gargano juts into the Adriatic. Most of the upland belongs to the Gargano National Park, founded in 1991. The highest peak is Monte Calvo.
Between Vieste and Peschici the coastal road is the SP 52, with small coves for swimming. The SS 89 leads from Vico del Gargano to Monte Sant'Angelo and from Mattinata to Manfredonia.
According to an Italian travel magazine, equipped camper areas and campsites exist at Vieste, Lago di Varano and Manfredonia, among others. Check availability beforehand.
Free overnighting on the road is allowed under Article 185 only without stabilisers, awning and discharges. Municipalities can add bans in peak season.

The drive

The starting point is Vieste, with its old town, castle and cathedral. The SP 52 follows the coast to Peschici, with coves for swimming. From there the route turns inland to the Foresta Umbra, with trails and picnic areas. From Vico del Gargano the SS 89 leads to Monte Sant'Angelo and the sanctuary of the Archangel Michael. The north shore can be added via Rodi Garganico and Lago di Varano. The SS 89 from Mattinata to Manfredonia, with its castle and cathedral, closes the route.

Camping

For Vieste an Italian travel magazine names campsites and equipped areas, for Lago di Varano equipped camper areas, and for Manfredonia several stopovers. The general parking rules apply: overnighting on the road only on the wheels, with no awning, stabilisers or discharges. Municipalities can limit time and place in season. On private land only on designated areas. Ask the municipality or the site beforehand.

FAQs

Which road links Vieste and Peschici?

The coastal road SP 52, which has small coves for swimming. Plan time for swimming stops, and ask about parking rules beforehand in peak season.

How do I get to Monte Sant'Angelo?

An Italian travel magazine describes the way from Vico del Gargano on the SS 89. The town has the sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo. Check access and parking on site.

May I stay overnight at the roadside?

Under Article 185 only if the motorhome stands on its wheels, releases nothing and extends no awning or steps. Municipalities can issue bans, especially in season. Follow the signs.

How much are the tolls on Gargano Coast?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about €5 (Italy). Estimate with typical rates; motorhomes pay more, and vehicles over 3.5 t often pay by distance.