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The Salento peninsula

Salento, the south-eastern tip of Italy, is surrounded by the Adriatic and Ionian seas. It has a unique charm and offers something for everyone – all year round.

Sandy beaches on the Ionian coast at Lido Conchiglie

Salento – the “land between two seas”

This lovely part of Italy is situated between the Ionian Sea to the west and the Adriatic Sea to the east.  The area is generally flat and characterized by a coastline that ranges from long sandy beaches to rather dramatic limestone cliffs and coves.

Some of the locals also describe it as:  Salentu: lu sule, lu mare, lu ientu,” which translates to “the land of sun, sea, and wind,” capturing some of the essence of the region.

The Apulian seasons

Spring is wonderful with lovely mild temperatures, and a beautiful time to discover the area. Summer is the time for terrace and seaside life and when the temperature drops in the evening for a little partying and sharing time with friends.

Autumn is less crowded; the sea is still warm and the air is lovely and fresh and winter is cozy by a warm fire or a warming drink on the piazza smelling the wonderful scent of olive wood.

The crops of Salento

Wine, vegetables, and olives thrive in the brick-red soil of this region, where the summers are long, hot, and dry and the winters are mild.

Pine forests and Mediterranean shrubs can be found along the coast and fill the air with their fragrances.

Towns and places in Salento

Lecce, Salento’s capital, is a vibrant university city and one of the most beautiful towns of Italy.

It is a celebration of Baroque architecture from the breathtaking Piazza Duomo to the magnificent Basilica di Santa Croce.

Breathtaking Piazza Duomo in Lecce

The Salento peninsula: a land of olive groves and vineyards

Ancient olive orchards reach as far as the eye can see, making this the second-largest olive oil-producing region in the world. The Primitivo, Negroamaro, Malvasia, and Susumaniello grapes of Salento produce rich, full-bodied wines to enjoy.

Useful link : www.viaggiareinpuglia.it