The Salento Area

The Salento area, or tip of the Italian boot, is full of cities to admire and wonders to discover. For a road trip recommended by real local experts, we suggest a journey through cities, alleys and the artistic beauty of a territory that has so much to tell.

 

Santa Maria di Leuca

The southernmost point of Salento, whose territory is extremely varied, consists of high jagged coasts that fall sheer to the sea, and wide expanses of yellow-gold sand. Being able to bathe in natural caves is a one-of-a-kind experience that is highly recommended for every visitor. The Ponte Ciolo is the most characteristic place of Santa Maria di Leuca due to the height of the cliff and the wonderful panorama.

 

Natural Park of Porto Selvaggio

Located in the municipality of Nardò, it extends for 432 hectares of coast, of which 268 are woodland area composed of Aleppo pines, Italic pines, and maritime pines. The park is the perfect place for a regenerating trek among the luscious natural greenery and to then immerse oneself in the inlet of the coast.

 

Lecce

The capital of Salento. There is nothing better than losing oneself along the streets of its historic center and being enchanted by the facades of the manor houses and churches, all built with the classic Lecce stone and in Baroque style. Wandering along, hidden by the houses, there are old workshops where paper pulp, an ancient local tradition, is still processed today.

 

Otranto 

The easternmost point of Italy is in Salento, it’s name is Otranto. A land dominated by the Greek, Byzantine, and Aragonese, it has a village bordered by old border walls that intersect in the alleys of the city. The Aragonese Castle and the Byzantine Church dedicated to St. Peter are worth a visit. St. Peter is said to have passed through Otranto on his journey to Palestine.