This is the easternmost town in Italy, among the jewels of the wonderful Puglia: we are talking about Otranto , more precisely Otràntu in Salento dialect. A town of almost six thousand inhabitants that has a history full of varied and different influences. Byzantines, Aragonese, Greeks and Romans. Otranto is a tourist center characterized, for centuries, by peoples who have influenced its architecture, art, history and cultural heritage, so much so that it was recognized by UNESCO, in 2010, as "Messenger of Peace Site".
Alimini Lakes and Baia dei Turchi
Variety of the landscape, crystal clear waters, are just some of the characteristics that you will find in the splendid beaches near Otranto . Over 20 kilometers of Adriatic coast that reserve and preserve completely unexpected unique views, such as the Alimini Lakes : immersed in the depth of the Mediterranean scrub, welcomed by the smells of juniper and pine, you will find yourself in front of two small water basins connected by a canal, called Lu Strittu, and distinguished by the name of Alimini Grande and Alimini Piccolo .
You will visit springs, including the main one called Zudrea, and witness the spectacle of the variegated seabed rich in molluscs. The feature that will surprise you is that, right in front of the Alimini you can pass, in a few minutes, from the particular lake to the marine beauty, visiting the beaches whose waters flow into the two basins.
If you decide to stay in the Alimini Lakes area, do not miss the spectacular Baia dei Turchi, famous seaside resort in the region, characterized by white sand beaches and very fine. Set in a protected oasis that takes its name from the Alimini Lakes, where you can let yourself be led by unforgettable colors, aromas and landscapes.
We suggest you organize underwater visits to get to know the depths of these extraordinary areas, where you can meet legendary beings such as sea turtles.
Porto Badisco, for holidays and sports
A little further south of the municipality of Otranto , we are talking about six kilometers, you will meet the suggestive beaches of Porto Badisco, where lovers of sports holidays can devote themselves to snorkeling and diving. An unrivaled lagoon, where fish of different shapes and colors will capture your desire for discovery. The characteristic stacks will win you over, a real journey within a journey.
The Palascia lighthouse and Baia dell'Orte
Romantic, fascinating, the Palascia lighthouse is a movie vision that you can see from the cliff of Baia dell'Orte, of experiences that a traveler cannot leave out, emotions that deserve to be lived, such as those you will experience crossing the paths that run along the beaches, surrounded by routes that lead to the bauxite mines.
After crossing a path that climbs into a pine forest immersed in the lush Mediterranean scrub, you enter the access area to the sea of Baia dell'Orte perfect territories for those who love wild nature , for those looking for a holiday of tranquility and restorative isolation. Coves, indescribable ravines, will await you after crossing the numerous trails.
Baia dell'Orte is certainly one of the most particular areas where you can enjoy rare and characteristic marine fauna due to the presence of cold currents generated by the intersection between the Golden River and Fontana. Get ready for an extraordinary show as you continue towards the disused former bauxite quarry , where a lake of colors with emerald shades is born that will literally leave you breathless.
Recommended, for lovers of hiking experiences, the “ Orte-Palascia ” route, is an itinerary that extends for seven kilometers. Far from the worldliness and the rhythms of nightlife, in the silence of an unparalleled contact with nature, you will be able to discover a new dimension of the senses.
