The Hiking of the Salento Coast

Day 1 – Arrival in Lecce (The Florence of Southern Italy)

Welcome to Lecce, one of the most beautiful cities in Puglia, famous for its stunning Baroque architecture from the 17th century. After your individual arrival, take time to explore the historic center.
Don’t miss the iconic Piazza Duomo and Piazza Sant’Oronzo, home to an ancient Roman amphitheater.

Overnight stay in Lecce.

Day 2 – Coastal Walk from San Foca to Frassanito (Alimini Lakes Area)

Private taxi included from Lecce to San Foca

• Distance: 14 km

• Elevation: +70 m / -60 m

• Terrain: gravel & paved roads

• Walking time: ~4 hours

Your hiking adventure along the Salento coastline begins in San Foca, starting near the old port tower. Walk toward Roca Vecchia, an ancient Messapian settlement with archaeological remains and the famous Grotta della Poesia, a magical natural pool carved into the rock.

Continue along the coast to Torre dell’Orso, where a refreshing swim is irresistible even in the cooler months. Along the way, admire the spectacular Faraglioni of Sant’Andrea, limestone sea stacks shaped by wind and waves.

The trail ends through a fragrant pine forest near Frassanito.

Overnight stay in the Alimini Lakes area.

Day 3 – From Alimini Lakes to Otranto

• Distance: 15 km

• Elevation: +90 m / -100 m

• Terrain: gravel & paved roads

• Walking time: ~4.5 hours

Today you’ll discover the peaceful Alimini Lakes, a protected natural area rich in wildlife. The route continues through endless olive groves before returning to the coast.

Enjoy panoramic views over impressive sea caves such as Grotta Sfondata, Grotta Verde, and Grotta della Monaca.

Arrive in Otranto, one of the most charming seaside towns in Puglia, known for its Aragonese Castle and the cathedral’s extraordinary mosaic floor.

Overnight stay in Otranto.

Day 4 – Otranto to Porto Badisco (The Most Challenging Stage)

• Distance: 17 km

• Elevation: +290 m / -290 m

• Terrain: gravel & paved roads

• Walking time: ~6 hours

This is one of the most demanding yet rewarding days of the trek. After strolling along Otranto’s waterfront, you’ll pass Torre del Serpe, a 16th-century coastal defense tower.

Walk through the colorful landscape of the Orte area, where you’ll find the striking Bauxite Quarry of Otranto, famous for its red rocks and emerald lakes.

Continue to Punta Palascia Lighthouse, the easternmost point of Italy, offering unforgettable Adriatic views.

End the day in Porto Badisco, a small bay with crystal-clear waters and ancient legends linked to Virgil’s Aeneid. Nearby lies the famous Grotta dei Cervi, known for prehistoric cave paintings.

Overnight stay in Porto Badisco.

Day 5 – Porto Badisco to Castro via Santa Cesarea Terme

• Distance: 15.5 km

• Elevation: +340 m / -335 m

• Terrain: gravel & paved roads

• Walking time: ~5.5 hours

The trail begins along the coast before climbing inland via the scenic Malepasso ascent. Reach Santa Cesarea Terme, renowned for its thermal springs and turquoise beaches like Porto Miggiano.

Admire the exotic beauty of Villa Sticchi and continue toward the breathtaking Zinzulusa Cave, one of the most famous sea caves in Southern Italy.

Arrive in Castro, a historic fortress town overlooking the sea, where ancient walls lead you to your accommodation.

Overnight stay in Castro.

Day 6 – Castro to Tricase Along the Adriatic Coast

• Distance: 17.5 km

• Elevation: +350 m / -270 m

• Terrain: gravel & paved roads

• Walking time: ~6 hours

Today’s walk follows the rugged coastline toward Marina di Andrano. The path is easy to follow and offers spectacular sea views.

Stop in Tricase Porto, a picturesque fishing harbor perfect for a coffee break by the pier.

Continue inland to Tricase, passing along ancient routes connected to the Via Francigena, marked by religious landmarks at the town entrance.

Overnight stay in Tricase.

Day 7 – Final Stage: Gagliano del Capo to Santa Maria di Leuca

Train from Tricase to Gagliano del Capo (17 min / €1.20)

• Distance: 17.5 km

• Elevation: +305 m / -450 m

• Terrain: gravel & paved roads

• Walking time: ~6 hours

Take a short train ride to Gagliano del Capo, where the final unforgettable hike begins.

Reach the coast near Marina di Novaglie, famous for its caves such as the Blue Grotto. Walk the scenic Cipolliane Path, once used for transporting salt, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub, wildflowers, and dry-stone walls.

Arrive at the dramatic Ciolo Fjord, a stunning canyon carved into the cliffs above a crystal sea.

Continue south until you finally see the Leuca Lighthouse and the Basilica of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae, marking the southern tip of Puglia.

Overnight stay in Santa Maria di Leuca.

Day 8 – Departure Day

Enjoy one last morning stroll along the seafront, savor a final Italian breakfast, and say goodbye to the unforgettable landscapes of Salento and Puglia.

Arrivederci, Puglia!