So you decided to visit beautiful Salento over the summer? Chances are that you won't be the only one. The popularity of our little corner of Apulia has been growing steadily for decades and it doesn't seem like it will be slowing down any time soon. When it comes to beaches, Salento is top notch! What some tourists are surprised to find out, however, is that the locals are just as likely to flock to rocky shores, where you can jump straight into the water, rather than wade slowly in – and you won't be bringing sand back to your car afterwards. The whole region is also full of wonderful little towns, beautiful national parks and picturesque marinas. There are plenty of places in Salento you should visit, if you have at least a week to explore (you can ask us for tips if you decide to stay with us!) However, if you're planning a trip here, we suggest you not miss these three gems.

If crowded beaches do not appeal to you, visit these 3 places in Salento!

Santa Cesarea Terme

One of the most fascinating features of Salento is its coastline. The Ionian Sea and the Adriatic Sea come together here in a unique way in the Otranto Channel, which is a beloved destination for watersports enthusiasts. Both locals and tourists enjoy diving, sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, snorkeling and scuba diving in its supernaturally blue waters. The surrounding beaches and rocky shores are perfect for relaxing under the sun. The town of Santa Cesarea Terme stands on a cliff overlooking the Otranto Channel and it combines breathtaking marine landscapes with stunning architecture. You can enjoy its natural beauty by walking along the paths that lead you to the shore or visiting one of its many thermal resorts. In fact, one of the main attraction in Santa Cesarea Terme is its thermal baths complex called “Terme di Santa Cesarea”. It has been operating since ancient times and today it still offers relaxing treatments based on natural sources.

Roca

Roca is one of the marinas in the municipality of Melendugno, overlooking the Adriatic Sea. This destination is splendid, but less crowded, even at the height of summer, than places like Gallipoli and Porto Cesareo. In the past, a flourishing Messapian town stood here, and today Roca looks like a quaint fishing village. Most visitors come for the crystalline sea and charming cliffs and end up staying for the history and culture of the place. Roca is characterized by the presence of many historical and archaeological landmarks, as well as natural beauty. These include the ruins of an ancient castle overlooking the sea, those of the 16th-century watchtower, the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Roca, dating back to the 17th century, and the famous “Grotta della Poesia” (the “Cave of Poetry”), a beautiful sea cave that can be visited by boat.

Torre Sant'Andrea

Torre Sant'Andrea is also located in the surroundings of Melendugno. The beauty of the Adriatic coast stands out especially during sirocco days, when you will be able to enjoy the warm summer breeze and the clear, clean waters of this narrow sea. Considered one of the most beautiful seaside destinations in Italy and often compared to Thailand for its rocky and yet lush landscape, Torre Sant'Andrea is best known for its characteristic “Faraglioni” rocks, formed over millennia by wind and erosion caused by marine currents. This stretch of coastline actually consists exclusively of rocks, with no beaches or sand, and the only point of access to the sea is located at the beginning of the area occupied by the Faraglioni. To reach it, you will need to climb down for about ten meters to a short limestone platform. From here you will have your quasi-private access to the sea, enjoying an area of enormous beauty with precious few tourists.

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