Tucked away between Gallipoli’s coastline and Porto Cesareo, the Porto Selvaggio Beach is a natural wonder that has been protected as a reserve for over 10 years. This stunning beach is characterized by rocky formations, crystal-clear waters, and a lush vegetation of gorse and lentils, making it one of the most attractive places in Salento and Puglia.
A Brief History of Porto Selvaggio Beach
The Porto Selvaggio Beach has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The reserve was first established as a protected area in 2013, with the aim of preserving its natural beauty and biodiversity. However, the beach itself has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike for centuries.
Getting There: Arriving and Parking
To reach the Porto Selvaggio Beach, you can arrive by car or bus. The reserve is accessible via the SP 286 highway from Nardò, Gallipoli, or Lecce. From Porto Cesareo, take bus 104 for 5 stops, while from Gallipoli, it takes 8 stops, and from Lecce, it’s a longer journey of 12 stops.
By car, follow the signs for S.Caterina and continue on SP 286 for approximately 26 minutes. Parking is limited to one paid lot near the Nature Reserve and beach, with a ticket costing €1.00 per hour or €3.00 all day.
A Free Beach with Natural Attractions
The Porto Selvaggio Beach is a free beach that offers stunning natural attractions. The rocky formations and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. However, be sure to wear scuba diving shoes to move around comfortably.
The beach is also home to the Litos Balneary Establishment, which offers food, drink, live music, and free parking. Phone: 327 7779421, Email: info@litosportoselvaggio.it
Accommodation Options
While there are limited accommodation options nearby, you can find a range of hotels, B&Bs, and camping sites that cater to all budgets. Prices start from €57.00 per room.
Here are some suggestions for accommodations:
- Hotels and B&Bs starting from €57.00 per room – Check offers
- Camping sites with prices starting from €10.00 per night
- Villages with apartments and houses available for rent
Things to Do and See Around
The Porto Selvaggio Beach is surrounded by a variety of attractions, including caves, towers, and other beaches of great interest.
Here are some must-see attractions:
- Baia Uluzzo: A small beach near the reserve, but be prepared for a steep path.
- Cosma Cave, Uluzzo Cave, and Cavallo Cave: Explore these caves and discover their hidden treasures.
- Grotta del Cavallo: A must-visit for history buffs, with archaeological finds from the Neanderthal era.
- Torre dell’Alto: The main tower among three ancient towers on the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the beach.
- Serra Cicora: A necropolis dating back to the V century BC with megalithic structures.
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Diving and Snorkeling Opportunities
If you’re an avid diver or snorkeler, Costa del Sud Diving offers guided dives and snorkeling excursions just a few kilometers away from the beach. Spend a whole day exploring the underwater world.
Here are some diving sites to explore:
- Porto Selvaggio Beach: Explore the rocky formations and crystal-clear waters.
- Baia Uluzzo: A secluded beach with clear waters, perfect for snorkeling.
Nightlife Options
The nightlife options in the area include Mayapan and Bar Holiday’s (facebook.com/Bar-holidays).
Here are some bars to visit:
- Mayapan: A popular bar with live music and cocktails.
- Bar Holiday’s: A cozy bar with a relaxed atmosphere and good drinks.
Festivals and Events
The Porto Selvaggio Beach hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including concerts, markets, and cultural activities. Here are some of the most notable ones:
- Concerto estivo di Salento (Summer Concert of Salento): A classical music festival that takes place every summer.
- Mercato Estivo (Summer Market): A weekly market that offers a wide range of local products and crafts.
- Notte dei Templari (Templar Night): A cultural event that explores the history and mythology of the Knights Templar.
Conclusion
The Porto Selvaggio Beach is a hidden gem in Salento that offers stunning natural attractions, rich history, and diverse activities. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, this beach has something for everyone. So why not plan your trip to Salento today and discover the beauty of Porto Selvaggio Beach?
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Porto Selvaggio Beach:
Q: How do I get to the Porto Selvaggio Beach?
A: You can arrive by car or bus. The reserve is accessible via the SP 286 highway from Nardò, Gallipoli, or Lecce.
Q: What kind of accommodation options are available nearby?
A: There are hotels, B&Bs, camping sites, and villas with apartments and houses available for rent.
Q: Is there a paid parking lot near the Nature Reserve and beach?
A: Yes, there is one paid parking lot near the Nature Reserve and beach. The ticket costs €1.00 per hour or €3.00 all day.
Q: Can I swim and snorkel in the Porto Selvaggio Beach?
A: Yes, you can swim and snorkel in the beach. However, be sure to wear scuba diving shoes to move around comfortably.
Q: Are there any nearby caves to explore?
A: Yes, there are several caves near the reserve, including Cosma Cave, Uluzzo Cave, and Cavallo Cave.
Q: Can I go diving or snorkeling in the area?
A: Yes, Costa del Sud Diving offers guided dives and snorkeling excursions just a few kilometers away from the beach.
Q: Are there any nightlife options nearby?
A: Yes, Mayapan and Bar Holiday’s are popular bars with live music and cocktails.
