The Ionian coast of Salento
Endless beaches and limpid sea just a few minutes from B&B Villa Mariella
Just 5 minutes by car from B&B Villa Mariella, you can reach the seaside resorts of Torre Ovo, with its Saracen watchtower of the same name, Trullo di Mare and Librari, which make up the Marina di Torricella. Heading north along the Litoranea Salentina, one reaches the marinas of Lizzano and Pulsano, seaside resorts with stretches of coastline characterised by cliffs and sandy coves, wide beaches and dune systems rich in Mediterranean scrub.
Towards the south, however, Campomarino di Maruggio is one of the most renowned locations for the beauty of its sea and a very varied stretch of coastline. High dunes and cliffs enclose small, exotically colluder coves and a sea of extraordinary clarity. Here there is the only port for mooring between Taranto and Porto Cesareo, divided into a tourist port for small boats and a fishing port that feeds a small fish market during the summer.
Another must-see is Torre Colimena, a small fishing village named after the ancient Saracen watchtower. Its territory includes the Protected Natural Area of the Salina dei Monaci, which extends over 25 hectares and is of strategic importance as a stopover for the pink flamingos and other migratory birds that frequent the area, ideal for birdwatching, jogging and outdoor walks.
The splendid stretch of coastline that can be admired on the way to Punta Prosciutto is characterised by unspoilt nature, free beaches and equipped lidos, fine white sand and an incredibly clear sea. This stretch of coastline is mainly frequented by families because of the shallow water and wide visibility, which allows for good supervision of children. It is also very popular with young people and sports enthusiasts who enjoy windsurfing, diving and sailing.
