After visiting the eastern coastline nothing remains but to visit the Ionian coast. From Leuca to Gallipoli the coastline is flat, with low rocky headlands alternating with sandy dunes. Many tourists are attracted to this part of the coast, with its excellent beach facilities, hotels, holiday villages and campsites which have grown in the area. We then, pass through without interruption; Torre Vado, Marina di Pescoluse, Torre Suda, Torre Mozza, Marina di Mancaversa and Torre San Giovanni. Suggestive scenery with its strips of pine trees, large sandy beaches with fine white sand, with sand dunes and sea scrub, opening into the sea. The best camp sites are situated under splendid pine trees, offering their guests shaded restaurants, out of the hot summer sun. Particular attention should be paid to the village of Ugento, considered a goldmine for its archaeological finds. We would also like to underline the fact that the sea here is at its most inviting, with the bottom of the sea clear, reflecting the transparency of the water. Now we will continue towards Gallipoli, which will hit you with its atmosphere, its Mediterranean smells and its colours. Characterised by its clear division of the city into two parts, the old and the new city. On the coast, going towards the west we will come to the Scoglie dei Piccioni (cliffs), while to the south east appears the Isola di Sant’Andrea. The city can be considered one of the fastest growing tourist areas in Salento. Going north from Gallipoli as far as Porto Cesareo, there is wealth of beautiful seaside places like Santa Maria in Bagno, Santa Caterina, Rivabella and of course Porto Cesareo. This last seething seaside town with is old centre, developed around the usual tower, in the summer months fills up with crowds walking around the area in front of the port.
Here ends our itinerary along the Salento coastline, a journey which will leave you feeling amazed by the great beauty and variety of scenery you have seen.
