Ugento

Ugento is one of the pearls of lower Salento, a town rich in history, culture, and traditions overlooking the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. Located in the province of Lecce, this town enchants visitors with its hilltop historic center, archaeological sites, and a spectacular coastline stretching for miles with golden beaches and calm waters.

From messapian origins to a Medieval center

Ugento’s roots are deep in antiquity: it was one of the most important settlements of the Messapian civilization, known as Ozon, where as early as the 2nd millennium BC, a thriving community developed, with its own defensive walls and even a mint to mint coins.

With the arrival of the Normans around the 10th century, Ugento recovered and maintained its prominent position, becoming a significant feudal center. The presence of ancient walls, historic buildings, and places of worship testify to the cultural richness the city has maintained over time. Among the most characteristic buildings are the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, rebuilt after centuries of destruction, and Ugento Castle, a fortress with medieval origins that dominates the city center from above.

Strolling through the village’s narrow streets, you’ll experience an authentic atmosphere: artisan workshops, historic buildings like Palazzo Rovito, and panoramic views that reveal centuries of Salento history and traditions.

Ugento Marina: a dream sea in the heart of Salento

The true treasure of Ugento, however, is its Ionian coast, stretching for miles with fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Marinas like Torre San Giovanni, Torre Mozza, and Lido Marini have become famous throughout Italy and beyond for their pristine natural landscape and the Mediterranean climate, making this area ideal for a seaside holiday from May to October.

The coast is largely protected by the Ugento Coast Regional Natural Park, a protected area where dunes, canals, and pine forests alternate in a mosaic of fragile and evocative ecosystems, perfect for hiking or biking.

Ugento’s beaches aren’t just scenic: they’re also a symbol of shallow, family-friendly waters, which, along with a wide range of seaside activities and water sports, make the marina a tourist hotspot in Puglia.

Beyond relaxing on the beach and diving in the crystal-clear waters, the coast also offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, summer events, food festivals, and lively evenings in the bars along the seafront.

Ugento’s tourist services

Ugento is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Ionian Salento area: its coast, with beaches such as Fontanelle, Torre Mozza, and Lido Marini, is often considered among the most beautiful in Italy, thanks to its transparent waters, fine sand, and the variety of landscapes that alternate along the shore.

The destination is perfect for those seeking a seaside vacation with family, couples, or groups of friends: from well-equipped beaches to quieter coves, from sailing courses to boat excursions, not to mention the nature trails within the coastal park.

The Ugento area boasts a well-structured tourism offering, with hotels, villages, and resorts directly overlooking the sea or just minutes from the beach.

Among the most renowned accommodations in the area are Robinson Club Apulia, located in Fontanelle, ideal for all-inclusive holidays combining sea, sports, and entertainment for the whole family; Vivosa Apulia Resort, nestled in the Ugento Coast Natural Park, renowned for its elegance, eco-friendly approach, private beach, and wellness services; and Victor Village, surrounded by a pine forest just steps from the sea, perfect for those seeking relaxation, nature, and greater independence. To complete the offering, Ugento’s marinas also offer hotels, B&Bs, and residences to suit every need and budget, with numerous options dedicated to summer vacations.

What to do near Ugento

Ugento is the ideal starting point for exploring the best of Salento, thanks to its strategic location. Just minutes away are the beautiful Pescoluse, known as the Maldives of Salento, renowned for its pale sand and crystal-clear sea. To the north, Gallipoli is easily reached, with its charming seaside historic center and vibrant summer atmosphere, while to the south, Santa Maria di Leuca offers breathtaking views of cliffs, sea caves, and the meeting of the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. Depending on the time you have, you can create personalized itineraries, alternating sea, villages, and nature, or join one of the many tours of Salento to fully and authentically discover the area.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or culture, Ugento will welcome you with the typical warmth of Puglia and unforgettable scenery.