Torre Blu

Salento is just 18km from the coastal town of Gallipoli with the heavenly Aegean Sea to the west, only accessible via boat or a mystical 16th-century bridge, surrounded by great, crashing blue waters on all sides. Having retained its retro feel so well, you’ll feel as if you’ve flown back in time to the mid-sixties, with old winding streets, nooks and crannies, plus quaint hand painted shop fronts, many with gorgeous wines, taralli, cheeses and other local produce for sale that just screams old school coastal Puglia.

When in Gallipoli, most wouldn’t want to miss the chance to explore its old quarter to get their dose of the oldest architecture in the area, and of course, the opportunity to sample more than one of Gallipoli’s fabulous old-school coffee shops. Birthed in the 13th century, Castello Angioino di Gallipoli is the standout landmark of the town, its defensive walls still standing strong after it was originally built as a means to resist foreign attacks. It now serves locals and holidaymakers as a cultural centre.

The Spiaggia della Purita beach is also a must visit, being one of the best spots in the town for drinking in Gallipoli’s glorious sunsets. Staying true to the meaning of its name - ‘beautiful city’ - and living up to its reputation metaphorically as the City of Poetry, Gallipoli won’t disappoint.

Salento’s principal city Lecce is also not one to miss out on your itinerary when in Salento. Easily accessible by train as the southeastern terminal for Italy’s railway line, it’s easily accessible and is the perfect base from which to spring off to other parts of Salento and its neighbouring regions seamlessly. The birthing ground of the Barocco Leccese architecture movement, everywhere you look you’ll find the most spellbinding buildings. If you can’t get enough of blissful coastal life, be sure to check out the lovely town of Otranto, which is also home to a magnificent 11th-century gothic cathedral, complete with intricate mosaics and a chapel of skulls!

There’s a reason Puglia is the region of the moment, or rather several: the excellent food, exuberant architecture dotted in the South, the breathtaking coastline and heaps more. Puglia is much bigger than you might first expect, but you’ll get both a wonderful and varied Italian experience here.Use our travel guide as a nifty sidekick (think of us like the Robin to your Batman) to help you plan the holiday of a lifetime. And don’t forget we’ve got a selection of villas in Puglia that will add that extra special touch to your trip.

Please be aware that a number of nearby amenities - pharmacies, supermarkets, restaurants, for example - may be closed or have limited opening hours during low season.

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