On the Adriatic coast, near the historic Salento town of Otranto, there are wonderful beaches, which have been an inexhaustible tourist destination for many years and are among the most popular in beautiful Puglia.
One of these is undoubtedly Baia dei Turchi, a heavenly cove reached every summer by tourists from all over the world who love its fine sand and its shallow, crystalline waters, ideal for those traveling with very young children.
According to a legend, the bay takes its name from the fact that in 1480 the Turks landed in this inlet and then attacked the nearby city of Otranto. Because of this link with the historical event and the particularity of the unspoiled natural landscape, in 2007 the FAI undertook to declare it one of the 100 places to be protected on the national territory. Following this decision, it was merged with the protected Oasis of the Alimini Lakes, as it is important to preserve this rarity and ensure that it can be preserved in the best possible way.
Another very characteristic place, not far from the Baia dei Turchi beach, is certainly the Grotta del Mulino d’acqua. This locality takes its name from the presence, many years ago, of an ancient water-operated mill that worked. Unlike Baia dei Turchi, it has a rocky coast full of caves, the most fascinating is certainly the “Grotta Sfondata”, located north of the bay; it is a cave devoid of the upper portion of rock, which tends to form a natural pool, from which it is also possible to rejoin the sea. The remaining caves are located on the south side of Otranto and can be reached by swimming through a tunnel: the Grotta della Monaca, the Grotta dell’Eremita and the Scoglio del Sapunerò.
In addition to the charm of the caves and the natural conformation of the coast, we also find here crystal clear water with a color very similar to emerald green. An earthly paradise that attracts all those who want to treat themselves to a different day, away from the hustle and bustle of the beaches in the high season.
In short, two oases of peace, which make the Salento town even more sought after, not only for its historical charm but also for a uniquely relaxing experience, immersed in nature.