This morning travel to the stunning seaside town of Otranto known as the ‘jewel of Salento’ for your hiking adventure.
Your guide will lead your trek along the regional Natural Coastal Park at the bottom of the heel of Italy, a stunning coastal path with panoramic views, from Otranto to Leuca. On clear days from here you can see the Albanian mountains across the Adriatic Sea.
Hiking The Stunning Salento coast
This morning travel to the stunning seaside town of Otranto known as the ‘jewel of Salento’ for your hiking adventure.
Your guide will lead your trek along the regional Natural Coastal Park at the bottom of the heel of Italy, a stunning coastal path with panoramic views, from Otranto to Leuca. On clear days from here you can see the Albanian mountains across the Adriatic Sea.
Your guide will take you to see the Aragonese Castle and the Cathedral, consecrated in 1088, which hosts an astonishing mosaic floor known as the “Tree of Life” depicting images from religions around the world. Skulls, bones, and relics of the Martyrs of Otranto, who perished in the 15th century siege surround the high altar.
On the way back you will make a stop in stunning Galatina to explore the Basilica di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria in where you’ll see frescoes of biblical stories, including the life and passion of Christ.
The town is also known for its pastries and you will have a well deserved stop for a coffee and “pasticiotto leccese” a delicious pastry filled with ricotta or custard, before continuing on your scenic walk along the beautiful coast line.
In the evening there is the opportunity to choose from one of the wonderful trattoria or restaurants in Lecce, perhaps try a generous vegetable antipasti or hearty plate of pasta, topped off with a gelato and a stroll along the beautifully lit streets.
Puglia is wonderfully vegetarian-friendly (although fish and meat lovers will find plenty on offer too).
Overnight in Lecce.
