Leuca and its surroundings
If you’re planning your stay in Salento, you’ve come to the right place: this region knows how to surprise every kind of visitor. To help you plan your days, we’ve put together some tips on this page about what to do and see in Santa Maria di Leuca while on vacation—from the natural wonders just a short walk from the villa to the hidden gems of the inland areas.
Coves and dreamy beaches
From Leuca, you can easily reach the most beautiful stretches of coastline on the Salento Peninsula. Choose between the crystal-clear waters and fine sand of the “Maldives of Salento” in Pescoluse, the stunning bay of Felloniche, or the wilder, rockier landscapes of places like Ciolo.
The authentic flavors of Salento
A vacation is also a journey into local flavors and culinary traditions. Let yourself be captivated by the aroma of handmade orecchiette topped with turnip greens or a fresh tomato sauce with cacioricotta cheese, accompanied by a glass of Negroamaro. And to start your morning off right on the patio, don’t miss a tray of warm, cream-filled pasticciotti.
Discovering Gallipoli and Otranto
Two must-see destinations just a short distance from the villa: Gallipoli, the “Città Bella” (Beautiful City), will amaze you with its historic center perched on a limestone island, its Angevin castle, and its picturesque alleys. On the opposite side, Otranto will welcome you with its imposing cathedral featuring a mosaic floor and a fortified historic center overlooking the sea.
The charm of the white villages
The Salento hinterland is home to small, timeless gems such as Specchia and Presicce. They are called “white villages” because of the traditional whitewash that covers the facades of their courtyard-style houses—an ancient custom designed to sanitize the interiors and reflect the summer sunlight, thereby keeping the homes cooler.