Salento Coast, Puglia
Italy
Along the wild coastline of the Salento, the tip of Italy's heel in Puglia, from Otranto to Gallipoli along a jagged shore of sea stacks, hidden coves, and shimmering water in a hundred shades of blue. Prickly pears line the road; the finibus terrae (end of the world) is at Santa Maria di Leuca.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Otranto
Italy's easternmost city. The Cathedral's 12th-century mosaic floor depicts a Tree of Life with 600 figures; the Aragonese castle overlooks the harbour where 800 residents were martyred in 1480.
- Santa Cesarea Terme
Sulphurous springs emerge from sea caves below Moorish-style villas perched on Adriatic cliffs. The coast road between here and Otranto is the most dramatic stretch of the Salento shore.
- Santa Maria di Leuca
The finibus terrae, where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea. An aqueduct waterfall tumbles into the sea beside the sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae at the tip of Italy's heel.
- Gallipoli
A Baroque old town on a tidal island, connected to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge. Puglia's oldest Greek fountain stands near beaches of vivid Ionian blue. The name means Beautiful City in Greek.
Where to Eat
- Ristorante L'ApprodoSeafood
Enjoy fresh seafood dishes with panoramic sea views in a charming coastal setting.
- Trattoria Le TaiateItalian
Savor traditional Salento cuisine in a rustic atmosphere with homemade pasta specialties.
- Ristorante La ConchigliaMediterranean
Delight in Mediterranean flavors with a focus on local ingredients and seafood delicacies.
Things to Do
- Otranto CathedralHistoric Site
Explore the 11th-century cathedral known for its stunning mosaic floor and rich history.
- Thermal Baths of Santa Cesarea TermeSpa
Relax in natural sulfurous thermal waters renowned for their therapeutic properties.
- Lighthouse of Santa Maria di LeucaScenic Viewpoint
Visit the iconic lighthouse offering panoramic views where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet.