19 Beaches of Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo
Caverna delle Ossa
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: The sea caves of Leuca are a complex of karstic caves located along the Salento coast in the southernmost part of Apulia, in the province of Lecce. These caves are famous for their beauty and uniqueness, thanks to the spectacular rock formations and rich marine fauna that inhabit them. The caves of Leuca were formed by the action of the sea on the limestone, creating a series of underwater caverns, ravines and tunnels. Many of these caves are only accessible from the sea, and their exploration is only possible by boat or dinghy. Among the most famous caves in Leuca, the Caverna delle Ossa, located on the promontory of Punta Ristola, is a typical example of a sea cavity. Circular in shape, this suggestive cave is only accessible from the sea, and fossils of various animal species have been found inside. The sea reflects a crystal-clear blue and soon becomes deep; the rich seabed is ideal for those who love snorkelling or for a simple regenerating swim. The ideal thing would be to rent a small boat so that you can explore the various ravines along this stretch of coastline and discover the most interesting coves in this way. Many greetings from the Caverna delle Ossa in Santa Maria di Leuca.
Grotta del Diavolo
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: The Grotta del Diavolo (Devil"s Cave) in Leuca is a picturesque cave located on the Salento coast, in the province of Lecce, southern Italy. The cave takes its name from the fact that, according to a popular legend, the roar caused by stormy waves violently crashing against the cave walls was so dark and gloomy that it was attributed to the action of the devil himself. The Devil"s Cave is accessible by sea or via a small footpath along the Punta Ristola ridge. The entrance to the cave is quite narrow, but once inside, it opens onto a vast chamber with a high, uneven ceiling. Sunlight filters through some cracks at the top of the cave creating a very atmospheric atmosphere. The water inside the cave is crystal clear and takes on an emerald green colour, thanks to the sunlight illuminating it. For diving enthusiasts, you will be spoilt for choice in finding a spot from which to dive so that you will be thrown into the sea in a fraction of a second. The Grotta del Diavolo (Devil"s Cave) in Leuca is a popular tourist destination in summer, especially for those who love adventure and nature. Have a good summer from Santa Maria di Leuca.
Punta Ristola
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: Punta Ristola is a promontory located on the Salento coast, in the extreme south of the Apulia region, in the province of Lecce, and encloses the entire bay of Santa Maria di Leuca. Punta Ristola is characterised by a high, jagged cliff, offering a panoramic view of the Ionian and Adriatic Seas; we find ourselves along that stretch of land that the ancient Romans called de finibus terrae, where the continent ends and the blue immensity of a wonderful sea opens up. Its geographical position makes it an ideal place to admire a colourful sunset. The promontory of Punta Ristola juts out to the west, in the direction of Gallipoli, and is the first belvedere we encounter when arriving from Torre Vado. The Punta Ristola area is also known for its natural beauty and rich marine fauna, which attracts many divers and snorkelling enthusiasts. In addition, there are numerous underwater caves and tunnels that can be explored by adventure seekers. In summary, Punta Ristola is a place of great natural charm, offering spectacular views along the Leuca coastline, and a wide variety of outdoor activities.
Grotta Porcinara
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: The Grotta Porcinara is perhaps the best known of the caves along the Santa Maria di Leuca coastline. Built by man as a place of pagan worship, this example of a cave bears witness to the very history of Leuca, a land that has seen different cultures intermingle over the centuries in a mixture of mutual respect, and which has been a safe harbour for many sailors for millennia. The Grotta della Porcinara is located along a small promontory about 60 metres from the sea and can be accessed via a small path from the mainland. At present, the cave is closed with iron grilles and to visit it, one must make an explicit request to the municipality. The entrance has two mouths that give access to three different rooms, inside which pre-Christian epigraphs have been discovered of thanksgiving for a safe voyage or of prayers that solicited comfort before facing a long journey. Some archaeological research by the University of Salento has revealed the presence of an area inside the cave used for the worship of pagan-religious rites. From a landscape point of view, the Grotta della Porcinara represents only one of the many natural beauties of the Leuca area; the wide cliffs interspersed with small paths through the green of the typical Mediterranean maquis frame a crystal-clear blue sea. The marvellous seabed is ideal for those who love diving so as to discover the most hidden recesses while also admiring the beautiful plays of light that are produced between the crevices of the various inlets; have a good summer at the Grotta della Porcinara.
Relax Leuca
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo:
Lido Giulia
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo:
Samarinda Fine Beach
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo:
Lido Azzurro
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo:
Lido Alba Chiara
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo:
Grotte Cazzafri
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: Among the innumerable grottoes of Santa Maria di Leuca that contribute to outlining a suggestive stretch of coastline as well as specifying the typical nature of the surrounding area, the Cazzafri Grottoes represent a unique spectacle of their kind; from the Greek Casa di Spuma (House of Foam), perhaps due to the foam produced by the waves breaking against the cliff, this beautiful example of a sea cavity presents itself to our eyes with its three rounded entrance arches, almost resembling the entrance to a Romanesque church, and can only be admired in all its complexity through the perspective of the sea. Of course, the ideal thing would be to rent a small boat so as to cross the Cazzafri Caves entirely, which present all their charm through the karstic walls full of stalactites and stalagmites, in a growing sensation of amazement and tranquillity at the same time that one breathes from within. The Cazzafri Caves are located near Punta Meliso, right at the foot of the typical promontory and are a popular tourist attraction during the summer, when many visitors arrive to admire the natural beauty of these rock formations and enjoy a refreshing dip in the clear waters of a crystal blue sea. Leuca is a town that retains its charm and beauty carved in time, and spending even a few hours admiring the characteristic beauty of this town repays both soul and spirit, happy holidays from the Cazzafri Caves.
Grotte di Terradico
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: The Santa Maria di Leuca Caves are a series of sea caves located along the Salento coast in the deep south of Italy, in the province of Lecce. These beautiful manifestations of mother nature are famous for their white limestone cliffs that frame the crystal-clear blue of a crystal-clear sea. Taking a refreshing swim in these wonderful waters, especially when the sea is calm, enhances well-being and physical pleasure on hot summer days. Some of Santa Maria di Leuca"s caves are only accessible by sea and can be visited thanks to the various boat excursions organised locally. There are many caves to visit, each with its own unique characteristics. Grotta Terradico, for example, one of the first visible from the sea on the eastern side, owes its name to a curious and ancient sailor"s saying, Terra Vedo e Terra Dico, which in a contracted form spells the word Terradico. The cave is also called Fenditura di Terradico (Terradico"s cleft) because of its characteristic tent-shaped entrance, masterfully designed over the course of time by the constant and lasting action of the sea waves. These narrow crevices open up to a complex of three caves of varying sizes; the overall height of the cavities is about 35 metres, and the spectacle of light that is reproduced through the walls reflecting the different mineral formations rich in calcium salts creates fascinating shades of colour to which the emerald green of a beautiful sea is a counterpoint. Many greetings from Santa Maria di Leuca.
Capo Santa Maria di Leuca
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: The Capo di Santa Maria di Leuca, also commonly known as Punta Meliso, is a rocky prominence located on the extreme tip of the Salento peninsula, in the region of Puglia, in the province of Lecce. This stretch of coastline holds timeless charm and is one of the most evocative and scenic places in Salento as well as being considered the meeting point of the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. The Capo di Santa Maria di Leuca is characterised by sheer cliffs overlooking the sea, from which one can admire a spectacular view of the crystal-clear waters that meet and embrace each other in a whirlwind of swirls and continuous sea currents. At the top of the Cape is the lighthouse of Santa Maria di Leuca, an imposing watchtower that rises more than 48 metres above sea level. The area surrounding the Capo di Santa Maria di Leuca is known for its natural beauty and its historical and cultural richness. Here one can find ancient archaeological remains, numerous churches and sanctuaries, including the Basilica di Santa Maria De Finibus Terrae, built in the 18th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Capo di Santa Maria di Leuca is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months, when many people visit the area to admire the beautiful landscapes and enjoy the beaches and crystal-clear sea. Beauty of a timeless area, relaxation and culture, happy holidays from Capo di Santa Maria di Leuca.
Grotta di Purraru
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: Grotta Purraru is located in Santa Maria di Leuca, a popular tourist resort in the municipality of Castrignano del Capo, in the province of Lecce. We are in the deep south of this magical land called Salento and the Grotta di Purraru, which is only accessible from the sea, has a very narrow and high opening with white limestone walls that contrast with the crystal blue of this wonderful sea. The cave is famous for its beauty and for the natural forms that have been created by the action of water on the limestone rock. Inside the cave, one can admire stalactites and stalagmites of different shapes and sizes, natural columns and small lakes of brackish water. The light filtering through the entrance opening creates an atmospheric and mysterious atmosphere inside the cave. The ideal, however, would be to hire a small boat so as to admire the cave in all its complexity, and also to take the opportunity to discover the most picturesque corners of this beautiful stretch of coastline. Today, Leuca"s Grotta Purraru is a popular tourist destination, frequented by visitors and divers who want to admire the natural beauty of the cave and the wonders of the surrounding sea. Have a good summer from Santa Maria di Leuca.
Grotte di Vedusella
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: The Grotte di Vedusella are a unique spectacle for those who love excursions and boat trips. Located on the eastern side, looking towards the Adriatic Sea, these beautiful sea caves show all their charm through small inlets with the entire stretch of coastline characterised by these high rocky walls falling sheer to the sea. We are in Santa Maria di Leuca, a tourist resort that certainly needs no introduction, where nature has shown off its mastery by drawing a capricious coastline made up of broad cliffs that embrace the green of the typical Mediterranean scrub, and where the meeting of the two seas, the Ionian and the Adriatic, has always represented a singular charm in popular culture. The Vedusella caves are not very deep, unlike other caves in the Leuca area, and they can be admired in all their charm, especially in the early morning hours, when the sun"s rays colour the waters of the sea in the most varied and fascinating shades of colour in a shimmering of truly exciting and evocative colours. In the area there are many tourist associations and specialised centres that rent boats so that you can spend a relaxing day on a boat to discover the most beautiful coves on this particular stretch of coastline. Enjoy your holiday at the Grotte di Vedusella in Santa Maria di Leuca.
Falesia delle Mannute
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: The Mannute cliff is located in Santa Maria di Leuca, a marina in the municipality of Castrignano del Capo in the province of Lecce. This characteristic stretch of coastline is ideal for lovers of trekking and climbing. It is in fact a rock face about 50 metres high located in the southern part of Apulia and overlooking the crystal-clear sea of Salento. The cliff is mainly composed of white limestone and is divided into several sections, each with different climbing routes, already marked with different pitons from past experiences and with different degrees of difficulty. Most of the routes are for experienced climbers, but there are also some routes suitable for beginners. Close to the cliff face is the Grotta delle Mannute, a cavity about 20 metres above sea level and characterised inside by the presence of numerous stalactites and stalagmites. The view from the top of the cliff is simply breathtaking, with the sea opening blue towards infinity and the rocky coastline stretching to the horizon. The area is perfect for climbing enthusiasts and those seeking a unique challenge and experience in Salento. Moreover, the Mannute cliff in Santa Maria di Leuca is in a very picturesque and quiet location, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. The surrounding area is rich in nature, with numerous hiking and biking trails. The entire area is immersed in the green of the typical Mediterranean maquis that alternates with the rocky stretches of the coast. A unique experience full of emotions to be lived intensely, welcome to Santa Maria di Leuca.
Grotta le Due Pietre
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: The Grotta delle Due Pietre is located in Santa Maria di Leuca, in the province of Lecce. We are in the deep south of a land that never ceases to amaze in terms of the beauty and typicality of its surroundings. The Grotta delle Due Pietre is a sea cave characterised mainly by the presence of two large stones emerging from the water. The entrance to the cave is located a few metres from the coast, and can be reached either by small boats or kayaks, or take advantage of a hot summer day to reach the cave with a regenerating swim in these cool waters. Once inside, one is greeted by a breathtaking spectacle: the crystal-clear water, dark rocks and shades of green create a magical atmosphere. The two large stones emerging from the water are the highlight of the cave; the rich transparent seabed lends itself marvellously to snorkelling and discovering the fascinating play of light that is created through the crevices of the various inlets. The Cave of the Two Stones is a very suggestive place, rich in history and legends, as well as a popular tourist attraction for visitors who choose to explore the beautiful Salento coastline. Happy holidays from Santa Maria di Leuca.
Grotta dei Libri
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: The Santa Maria di Leuca Caves are a series of sea caves located along the southern coast of the Salento peninsula in the Italian region of Puglia. These caves have been carved by the waves of the sea over the centuries, creating a fascinating landscape; some of them can only be reached by sea. Among the many caves along the Leuca coast, the Grotta dei Libri stands out for its uniqueness; this particular sea cavity is characterised by its unique natural beauty, with crystal-clear water and strangely shaped rocks. Inside the Grotta dei Libri one can admire the special play of light produced by the sun"s rays penetrating through the openings in the ceiling, creating a magical atmosphere. The clear blue sea completes the landscape setting of this characteristic cave; the seabed rich in marine fauna is ideal for those who love diving, and the unique freshness of these waters is a panacea on hot, sultry summer days. The Santa Maria di Leuca Caves are a very popular tourist destination and are often visited by tourists who want to admire the natural beauty of the Salento coast. The ideal thing would be to hire a small boat to discover the most evocative corners of this characteristic coastline; have a good summer at Santa Maria di Leuca.
Grotta Galategghiu
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: The Grotta Galategghiu is located in Santa Maria di Leuca, in the province of Lecce. We are at the extreme tip of the Salento, here where the territory begins to manifest all its natural beauty through the presence of a fascinating landscape made up of broad cliffs that embrace the green Mediterranean scrub and rocky walls that fall sheer to the sea. The Grotta Galategghiu is a sea cavity named after the Greek Galatea, a sea deity from Greek mythology. The entrance to the cave is a few metres from the coast, and can be reached either by boat or by swimming. Once inside, one is greeted by breathtaking scenery: the crystal-clear water, dark rocks and shades of green create a magical atmosphere. The Galategghiu Cave is characterised by the presence of stalactites and stalagmites formed by the action of time and water. Moreover, the cave is rich in marine fauna: one can admire colourful fish, crustaceans and molluscs that populate the crystal-clear waters. The Grotta Galategghiu is one of the many caves along the coast of Santa Maria di Leuca and is a favourite destination for tourists who choose to explore the beauty of this wonderful land called Salento; have a good summer.
Torre dell Omomorto
Salento, Santa Maria di Leuca - Castrignano del Capo: