Archive for 'Apulia'

The town of Gallipoli on the Apulia coastline literally translates as ‘Beautiful City’ from its original Greek name.

If you come to visit, you’ll see why it’s so deserving of this description! Situated on the west coast of the Salento peninsula, Gallipoli is divided into two parts; the old town centre and the more modern developed section.

Gallipoli is actually built on an island which is connected to the mainland by a 16th century bridge. Historic sites in Gallipoli include the 14th century walls built by the Spaniards which were once reinforced by twelve lookout towers.

The sunny tourist area of Salento in the ‘heel’ region of Apulia in southern Italy has been a popular destination for tourists and Italian holiday makers for many years.

Salento encompasses the province of Lecce, a large part of Brindisi and part of Taranto. The unspoilt beauty of the Salento coastline, its ancient traditions and well preserved cultural attractions offer tourists all they need to have a good time!

Tour around the fascinating ruins of Greek and Roman temples scattered across its scenic terrain.

Santa Cesarea Terme is a stunning coastal town situated in the province of Lecce in Apulia. Also part of the Salento tourist area, Santa Cesarea Terme is a famous spa town which has four sea caves filled with pools of hot sea water!

They’re called Gattulla, Solfurea, Fetida and Solfatara. Sink into this cosy 30 degree heat and feel any aches or pains ebbing away. You’re guaranteed to feel revitalised after a few hours of this relaxing activity!

Santa Cesarea Terme is home to some majestic villas which overlook the glittering coast.

The picturesque town of Santa Maria di Leuca is situated on the promontory region of Apulia which separates the Adriatic from the Tyrrhennian Sea. It is actually a frazioni of Castrignano del Capo.

Begin your day in the town centre at the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria de Finibus Terae and gradually weave your way through the pretty flower adorned streets of Santa Maria di Leuca.

A visible landmark of the town is the white 157ft tall lighthouse which overlooks the glittering sea. Set sail from the port here on a guided tour of some of the popular sea caves, carved out by the forces of the sea over many centuries.

The most popular of these includes the Grotto dei Giganti, Grotta del Drago and Grotto del Diavolo. The last one was named so because of an eerie legend describing it as the home of demons that made the chilling noise that rumbled from it! The noise in fact came from when the tide came into the cave and rapidly pushed air through the eroded holes in the rock.

If you’re planning to enjoy a splendid vacation in Apulia this year then be sure to sail out to the picturesque Tremiti archipelago which is located close to the Adriatic coast here.

There are five islands in total and San Nicola Island is where the majority of the islands’ population of 350 people live.

There are many wonderful attractions to visit here including the site of a monastery where a monk called Nicolò was buried. The well preserved castle offers a few hours of cultural activity for tourists with an interest in historic buildings.

Water lovers can explore the numerous sea caves and popular diving spots dotted around San Nicola Island and the others called San Domino, Capraia, Cretaccio and Pianosa. The vibrant blue sea here shows the purity of the coast here which is a haven for a colourful range of marine life. The Tremiti Islands make up a large part of the protected marine park which strives to preserve this natural paradise!