Maastricht, The Netherlands to Athens, Greece

Planing to take 14-16 days through Italy, from Milan to Brindizi. A few rest days in between.
Can't really find anything about southern Italy on the net.
I need some information as to which coast I should take, using auto route express 98 I've put together two routes; one is Milan, Genoa, Rome, Naples than Brindizi.
The other is Milan, Rimini than all the way down to Brindizi.
Are there any areas that I should avoid?
Only really interested in natural beauty, dont care much for ancient ruins, mega city's or large industrial parks.
And if anyone could tell me the best maps I could get and where. There are so many out there its a bit confusing.
Any help would be apriciated.