Beaches
The coastline around Torre Suda and Capilungo is typically rocky, with low-lying ledges for sunbathing and getting into the water to snorkel or swim. A short drive to the north is a lovely long sandy bay which sweeps around to the peninsula town of Gallipoli. Probably the jewel in the crown of this bay is Punta della Suina beach, where turquoise waters lap onto fine white sand, with a natural backdrop of dunes and greenery. You can choose between beach clubs with sunbeds etc to hire.
Gallipoli
This eye-catching coastal town is well worth a visit. Set at the northern end of a fabulous bay, the fortified old town is crammed on a little island only connected to the mainland by a 17th century bridge, carefully watched over by an impressive fortress. The labyrinth of little streets reveal delightful piazzas and palazzi as you wander, and eventually lead you to the seafront with its open views. Good food and drink are in abundance, as are charm and cultural heritage.
Seafood feasts
The restaurants in this area serve all the Italian classics you will be looking forward to, but being a coastal area seafood and fish are especially prominent on menus. Dishes are often fairly simply prepared and deliciously fresh, such as fish soup, seafood risotto or linguine. Why not try a Puglian speciality such as ‘octopus alla pignata’, where chunks of octopus are slow-cooked with tomatoes, potatoes, onion and white wine in a traditional terracotta pot called a pignata.
