Baia dei Turchi

A splendid place that takes its name from the landing of Turkish warriors in the 15th century, Baia dei Turchi has now become a location known for its crystal clear water beaches.

It belongs to the protected oasis of the Alimini Lakes and holds the Blue Flag and the 5 Sails of Legambiente.

The sandy and uncontaminated bay with clear waters and surrounded by a Mediterranean scrub cliff has nothing to envy of international tourist destinations. It can be reached up to a certain point by public transport; the last stretch of about 4 minutes on foot.

Overlooking the sea there are some beaches, but also free beaches although a little crowded.

Furthermore, for those who have a lot of free time, it is possible to reach Punta Palascia or the nearby beaches of the Alimini Lakes very easily.

baia dei turchi
Baia dei Turchi ©sergio-pazzano via Canva

How to get to Baia dei Turchi

  • From Brindisi:

SS613 direction Lecce; before entering the city, take the West Ring Road towards Maglie-Otranto; take exit 11B towards Maglie. Just before arriving in Maglie, take the SS16 for Otranto. Once in Otranto, take the coastal road (SP366) towards Torre dell’Orso, past the Le Cale Resort, parked in the large car park near the pine forest. From there continue for a few minutes on foot along the path that will take you to the beach.

  • From Bari:

Take the SS16 towards Brindisi; without turning, continue towards Lecce. From here follow the directions above.

Lungomare di Otranto ©EunikaSopotnicka via Canva
Otranto: the easternmost town in Italy

Otranto located on the Adriatic coast, is the easternmost municipality in Italy, where it is said there is the separation point between the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea, almost a bridge between East and West.

Porto Badisco ©maudanros via Canva
Porto Badisco: a paradise three steps from Otranto

Seaside location between Otranto, Santa Cesarea Terme and Castro, according to legend, linked to Virgil's narrative, Aeneas landed here together with his father and son.

Faro di Punta Palascia ©staraldo via Canva
Punta Palascia: useful information

Punta Palascia, a few kilometers from Lecce, is a place famous for its lighthouse, counted among the five most important in the Mediterranean, from which it is possible to admire breathtaking scenery framed by uncontaminated nature and expanses of water.