Turquoise seas, rocky coastline, quaint villages – this is Italy’s southernmost Adriatic coast. Start in walled Otranto where a 5 th century attack by the Turks is still remembered – the skulls of the slaughtered are displayed in the cathedral alongside exquisite floor mosaics. Proceed south to Bauxite Lake (photo stop) and the lighthouse at Punta Palascia, Italy’s easternmost point. On a clear day see all the way to Albania! Pass sentinel watchtowers erected against Saracen pirates, then arrive at Santa Cesarea, a town with monumental villas and thermal baths. At the seaside Zinzulusa cave system, a sheer cliff opens to stalactites, stalagmites, ponds, living fossils and a vaulted chamber called the Duomo. Go for a dip at Castro, and stop for lunch – you are now in the heart of Salento. At Ponte del Ciolo, a bridge from which locals sometime dive, or at a more secluded spot, bathe or snorkel in the clear waters.
*NOTE: Lunch is not included. The visit to Zinzulusa Grotto (cave system) is weather permitting. Snorkeling equipment is not included
