5 villages to visit in Salento

Salento is a destination that still retains every inch of authenticity. Life here runs slow, as slow as ever.

Walking past cafes you’ll notice locals sipping on their espresso’s while reading the newspaper, or happily conversing in the streets of the historical centres on their daily strolls. But beyond this incredible lifestyle, this southern Italian destination offers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery with charming little towns that seem frozen in time. Each with their own particular point of interest, the following villages charm with pristine beaches, exceptional culinary offerings and picture-perfect centres. Read on to discover five fisherman villages to visit in Salento on your next trip to southern Italy. 

Santa Maria di Leuca

Santa Maria di Leuca

1. Santa Maria di Leuca

Situated at the very tip of the Salento peninsula, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet, Santa Maria di Leuca is a darling town with unparalleled views across the sea (you should definitely come for sunset). One of the best activities is to take a day-trip out on a boat and visit the spectacular karst caves along the coastline. It is suggested to visit the eastern caves in the morning and western caves in the afternoon, following the natural course of the sunshine. On the eastern tip you can visit the Grotte di Terradico, the Grotta del Soffio and the Grotta delle Vore while on the western side, Grotte delle Tre Porte is unmissable. As you return to shore, head out for an aperitif, or perhaps order a takeaway beer and sit on the beach, as you admire the sea shimmering against the golden sunlight. 

2. Tricase 

This southern small town is a destination to visit for gourmands. Here, you’ll find one of the most exquisite restaurants in the region. Taverna del Porto in Tricase offers a menu that focuses on fresh catch of the day, and traditional recipes with a modern twist. Highly recommended to share for starters are the bread, tomato and anchovies as well as the Marinaio Pizzetta. To follow, some of our favourite dishes include the Gran Fritto or Linguine Aglio, Olio, Peperoncino e Mare and to end the meal, the lemon and meringue tartlet is exceptional. A ten minute drive from the port-side takes you to the old town of Tricase, where you can savour contemporary cuisine at Locanda del Levante on a lovely old square with tables outside. Beforehand however, make sure to do as the Italians and pop into Farmacia Balboa, for a cocktail or two, sitting in the quaint piazza (perfect spot for people watching). This bar is owned since 2014 by actress Helen Mirren and her husband. Beyond this culinary delight, there are plenty of cultural reasons to visit including a stroll through the baroque interiors of Chiesa Madre di Tricase, a stunning 16th century church. 

Otranto

Otranto

Cava di Bauxite

Faro di Punta Palascia

3. Gagliano del Capo 

Close to Santa Maria di Leuca, Gagliano del Capo is worth visiting for its stand-out natural attractions and picturesque town centre. Take a stroll to the Ciolo Bridge, a natural arch that spans the narrow Ciolo Gorge, and don’t forget your bathing suit as you can dip your feet (or dive) in the sea. If you’re down for a hike, follow the Ciolo trail for some spectacular views across the Adriatic. Later, take a stroll around the town and visit the Church of San Rocco, a perfect example of local baroque architecture with Renaissance influences. 

4. Castro

Believed to be the landing site of Aeneas in Virgil's Aeneid, this village makes for a wonderful day-trip discovering a local, medieval village. Divided into two, Castro Marina is home to the port, in which small caves have been carved into the rock that serve as storage spaces for fishermen. Here you can take a boat to visit the Grotta Zinzulusa, a spectacular karst cave known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Also, a few km south of Castro Marina lies one of the most beautiful bays to swim in: Cala dell'Acquaviva (just make sure you bring a parasol or plenty of sun-cream). Above Castro Marina lies Castro Superiore, perched in a panoramic position overlooking the sea. Here you can visit the medieval Castro Castle, which serves as a reminder of the village’s strategic importance dating back to the 13th century. 

5. Otranto 

Otranto is a town that brims with history, slowly revealed as you stroll through its charming old town. A town that blends Greek, Roman, and Norman influences with stunning, natural landscapes. One of the most important sites to visit is the Cathedral, renowned for its magnificent mosaic floor, depicting the Tree of Life and a vast array of biblical and mythological scenes. Furthermore, the Castello Aragonese, a historic fortress dating back to the 15th century, is worth the stop, with beautiful views across the Adriatic Sea from its towers. Finally, Otranto is also home to Italy’s easternmost lighthouse: Faro di Punta Palascia, a quaint little lighthouse on the edge of a cliff that is at it’s best at sunrise (if you’re eager to get the good shot). Ps. One of the biggest natural wonders is also treasured in the surroundings: the Cava di Bauxite; a spectacular natural site featuring a vivid red-hued quarry lake. 

Do you also want to discover Puglia? Have a look at our holiday villas in Puglia here.