Garbatellamike

We are going down to the Salento for the first time later this month and should have a fair bit of time to do some sightseeing. What are the must sees and don't bothers as far as places to go are concerned.

There will be 5 of us, 3 adults (40s) and 2 kids (13 &15).

any advice gratefully received

MarkRD

Hi - I've been down there a couple of times in the summer months when it's a bit warmer, although even in August it rarely gets overcrowded.

Most of the coastline is worth checking out and beaches are usually fairly accessible and not over commercialised and the sea is generally clean.

For sightseeing I'd say definitely Otranto, and Gallipoli on the other side. I was a bit disappointed by Santa Maria di Leuca on the southern tip, but I would recommend picturesque Ostuni and Cisternino which are further up, with some nice beaches nearby.

Lecce has a nice enough centro storico to spend an afternoon/evening...although if you're driving to it I notice they don't believe in road signs much!

Margaret M

Alberobello and the caves at Castellano Grotto are also good. At this time of year I think you may have to book an English speaking guide for the caves in advance. Be warned we are having some very strange weather at the moment, cold and wet, so pack more than just shorts and t-shirts. Usually is it lovely weather by now.

Garbatellamike

Mark, thanks for that. We are flying to Brindisi and getting hire car and need to be in Otranto for the evening so going down the coast on day 1 works well and we will also be in Lecce Centro Storico later (I will make sure I bring Sallysatnav to make up for lack of road signs)

Mary, likewise thanks for advice on weather - hope it picks up in the next 10 days. I like the idea of the caves and we won't necessarily need an english speaking guide as the other 4 are fluent Italian speakers and I can get by.


Will look at Alberobello and Galipoli too

thanks again both
Mike

MarkRD

Oh yes, check out the trulli in Alberobello and surrounding villages
http://www.alberobellonline.it/

I went to those caves too but it was a long queue for tickets, although admittedly it was August..

.. send us a postcard!

ononno

with youngsters on board I would also consider the safari park and associated
funfair at Fasano.
ciao for now,
'o nonno

Garbatellamike

Cheers Ononno,
I like the idea, sod the kids; safari park and fun fair will do me fine