Salento lies on the very heel of Italy in Puglia's southern part. Often unfairly overlooked by tourists, this region of Italy is home to stunning stretches of coastline, beautiful beaches and picturesque towns surrounded by olive tree groves and vineyards. We believe this region deserves more credit and here's why you should visit Salento.
Salento Food
Salento has its own palate of foods you need to try and Southern Europe's Best Luxury Eco Resort has them all. Salento is also rich with vineyards and plentiful wineries, where you can follow your meal with a glass of something delicious.
Popular Salento dishes include:
Pittule - A beloved delicacy among the locals, Pittule is a popular street food in Salento. These fried dough balls, crafted with a perfect blend of water, yeast, and salt, offer a delightful balance of flavours. Best enjoyed when piping hot, they are often savoured during festive occasions such as Christmas and the celebration of San Martino.
Pucce with olives - Pucce are soft, semolina flour bread rolls traditionally baked in wood-fired ovens. Originally a farmer's meal, they've become popular street food at Puccerie shops. Fillings vary, with options like tomatoes and ricotta. The warm aroma of freshly baked semolina rolls with salty black olives is simply perfect!
Pitta di patate - This beloved potato casserole is a timeless favourite in Salento. Light and fluffy mashed potatoes envelop a flavourful mixture of tomatoes, onions, capers, black olives, and anchovies. The irresistible crispy, cheesy topping guarantees you'll be wanting more.
Beaches
Salento has earned the name 'the Maldives of Italy' thanks to its paradise coasts. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches – some of the best in Italy - and a holiday in Salento wouldn’t be complete without a few days by the sea.
Top beaches in Salento:
3) Togo Bay Beach, near Torre Castiglione, offers a tranquil escape with its fine white sand and shallow waters, making it suitable for families. The attention to detail is noticeable, providing a thoughtful space with wheelchair access. The restaurant features a diverse menu, from sushi to local cuisine. The bar complements the seaside experience with a selection of drinks.
2) Bahia Porto Cesareo, a chic beach spot just before Torre Lapillo where golden sands meet crystal-clear water. The beach is full of stylish details such as comfortable sofas on the beach. When you go there, go to their amazing beachfront restaurant and cap off your day at the bar with sunset cocktails. Bahia isn't just a beach—it's the essence of summer.
1) Baia dei Turchi or Turkish Bay lies a few kilometres north of Otranto. Sandy and uncontaminated, the bay belongs to the precious protected oasis of the Alimini Lakes. Closely intertwined with its history it is where Turkish warriors landed during the 15th-century siege of the city of Otranto.
Experience the "Maldives of Italy" yourself at Masseria Fontanelle.
Coastal towers
Salento is full of ancient watchtowers, as it has encountered countless invasions from diverse Mediterranean civilisations throughout history. The exact origins of these sentinel structures remain shrouded in mystery, with speculation pointing to a Norman era, though lacking sufficient proof.
Most of the coastal towers still present in Salento predominantly trace back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Unfortunately, the passage of time has not been kind to many of these once-majestic towers, leaving them in a state of disrepair.
Baroque Architecture in Lecce
Lecce, located in the southern region of Puglia, Italy, is renowned for its unique and distinctive architecture, often referred to as the "Baroque of Lecce." This architectural style emerged during the 17th century and is characterized by ornate and intricate designs, featuring elaborate carvings in the local limestone known as "pietra leccese." The city's architecture is a testament to the artistic and cultural richness of the Salento region.
One of the standout architectural gems in Lecce is the Patria Palace Hotel. Originally built in the 18th century as a noble residence, the Patria Palace underwent meticulous restoration to transform it into a luxurious hotel that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern comfort. The building itself reflects the grandeur of the Baroque era, with its impressive façade adorned with intricate decorations and sculptures.
The Baroque architecture of Lecce is characterised by exuberant decorations and a focus on detail. Ornate balconies, twisted columns, and intricate sculptures adorn many buildings, creating a visually stunning cityscape. The use of local limestone not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also ensures the durability of these structures over the centuries.
The historic centre of Lecce, often referred to as the "Florence of the South," is a treasure trove of Baroque architecture. Notable landmarks include the Basilica di Santa Croce, a masterpiece of Baroque art with a façade adorned with various sculptures, and the Piazza del Duomo, home to the Lecce Cathedral, a splendid example of Baroque architecture with its tall bell tower and elaborate entrance.
Things to do in Salento
If you’re wondering what to see and do in Salento, you won’t be short of options.
Visit Lecce – Salento’s main city has been nicknamed ‘The Florence of the South’ and is home to Baroque architecture and history aplenty. For those looking for nighttime entertainment, this is the place to visit for live music as well as buzzing bars and restaurants.
Go wine tasting – Salento’s countryside features many a vineyard, so it would be almost rude not to try the best of what this region has to offer.
Explore the Basilica di Santa Croce – This beautiful Baroque basilica features stunning craftsmanship and finds its home in one of the most beautiful squares in the city.
Boat hop between Salento’s cities – From Galatina onto Otranto and Gallipoli, what better way to travel between Salento’s must-see cities than across the turquoise waters? A scenic trip taking in rocky coasts and small bays, while still taking advantage of the best cuisine and culture the cities have to offer.
And if all that has you craving a spot of rest and relaxation, then head to Salento’s white sandy beaches for a day or two of downtime by the sea.
Is Salento, Puglia worth visiting?
Salento is one of Italy’s hidden gems, full of beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns and rich history. It is definitely worth visiting, and a holiday here is sure to be unforgettable.
If we've tempted you to visit Salento, then take a closer look at the fabulous Salento holidays we have available. Our Italian Travel Experts would love to hear from you on 0333 880 5655 and to discuss your holiday requirements or click here to request a call back.
