Santa Maria di Leuca
Latest page update: 10 December 2024
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By: Dion Protani
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The charming coastal town of Santa Maria di Leuca lies in the province of Lecce, within the Salento region of Puglia. It is renowned for its stunning scenery, including beaches and cliffs.
Santa Maria di Leuca is most famous for its picturesque lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, marking the southernmost point of the Salento Peninsula. |
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Santa Maria di Leuca: where two seas collide
Santa Maria di Leuca, situated in the province of Lecce, is a captivating coastal town renowned for its stunning scenery and rich maritime heritage. Its main attraction is the iconic Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Leuca, perched atop a cliff overlooking the Adriatic and Ionian seas, offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.
Visitors can explore the charming waterfront promenade lined with cafes and shops, or relax on the pristine sandy beaches. The nearby Grotta del Ciolo and Ciolo Bridge offer opportunities for scenic walks and breathtaking views. Santa Maria di Leuca promises a memorable coastal experience immersed in natural beauty in Puglia.
Visitors can explore the charming waterfront promenade lined with cafes and shops, or relax on the pristine sandy beaches. The nearby Grotta del Ciolo and Ciolo Bridge offer opportunities for scenic walks and breathtaking views. Santa Maria di Leuca promises a memorable coastal experience immersed in natural beauty in Puglia.
Santa Maria di Leuca - frazione di Castrignano del Capo
Comune: Castrignano del Capo
Province: Lecce Region: Puglia Highlights: lighthouse, Santuario di Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae Close by: Torre Vado, Pescoluse, Marina Serra, Tricase Porto Recommended accommodation: Montiro' Hotel |
What are the most popular activities in Santa Maria di Leuca and the local area?
Santa Maria di Leuca:
Nearby Attractions:
- Basilica Santuario Santa Maria De Finibus Terrae: Visit the Basilica Santuario Santa Maria De Finibus Terrae, a stunning church perched on the tip of the Salento peninsula, offering panoramic views of the sea.
- Leuca Promenade: Stroll along the scenic Leuca Promenade, lined with palm trees and offering views of the rugged coastline and the convergence of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.
- Leuca Lighthouse: Admire the historic Leuca Lighthouse, dating back to the 19th century and providing breathtaking views of the surrounding seascape.
Nearby Attractions:
- Punta Ristola: Visit Punta Ristola, the southernmost point of Puglia, offering dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters perfect for diving and swimming.
- Grotta del Diavolo: Explore the Grotta del Diavolo, a sea cave known for its unique geological formations and stunning underwater scenery.
- Marina di Novaglie: Relax on the rocky beach of Marina di Novaglie, surrounded by limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, ideal for snorkelling and sunbathing.
- Cape Santa Maria di Leuca: Hike to Cape Santa Maria di Leuca, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the coastline and the surrounding countryside.
What are the best restaurants in Santa Maria di Leuca and the local area?
- Ristorante Lo Scalo: Situated on the seafront promenade of Santa Maria di Leuca, Ristorante Lo Scalo offers panoramic views of the coastline. The restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, freshly prepared with local ingredients.
- Trattoria La Pizzica: Located in the town centre of Santa Maria di Leuca, Trattoria La Pizzica serves traditional Salento cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Diners can enjoy homemade pasta, grilled meats, and local wines.
- Ristorante La Terrazza: Nestled on a hill overlooking Santa Maria di Leuca, Ristorante La Terrazza offers breathtaking views of the town and the sea. The restaurant serves a variety of seafood and Mediterranean dishes, perfect for a romantic dinner.
- Trattoria da Mimi: This family-run trattoria is located in the heart of Santa Maria di Leuca. It offers a cosy atmosphere and a menu featuring homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and traditional Salento recipes.
- Ristorante Gli Ulivi: Situated in a picturesque olive grove just outside Santa Maria di Leuca, Ristorante Gli Ulivi offers a tranquil setting for dining. The restaurant specializes in local cuisine, with dishes made from organic ingredients sourced from the surrounding area.
Santa Maria di Leuca Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Santa Maria di Leuca and the local area?
- Hotel Terminal - Caroli Hotels (Santa Maria di Leuca): Located in the heart of Santa Maria di Leuca, Hotel Terminal offers guests a central location close to the town's main attractions, including the famous Basilica of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae and the picturesque seafront promenade. This hotel provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the town and enjoy seaside relaxation.
- Villa Meridiana Relais & SPA (Santa Maria di Leuca): Situated just a short walk from the seafront, Villa Meridiana Relais & SPA offers guests a tranquil stay amidst lush gardens and panoramic views of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. This boutique hotel provides luxurious rooms and suites with elegant furnishings, as well as a spa and wellness centre, making it an excellent option for those seeking a rejuvenating retreat in Santa Maria di Leuca.
- Leuca Hotel & Resort (Santa Maria di Leuca): Positioned on a hillside overlooking Santa Maria di Leuca, Leuca Hotel & Resort offers guests panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coastline. This hotel provides comfortable rooms and suites with modern amenities, as well as a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, making it an ideal choice for both relaxation and exploration of the area.
- Santa Maria Resort (Santa Maria di Leuca): Nestled amidst olive groves just outside Santa Maria di Leuca, Santa Maria Resort offers guests a peaceful rural escape. This charming resort provides comfortable rooms and apartments with traditional furnishings and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can relax in the tranquillity of the countryside while still being within easy reach of Santa Maria di Leuca's beaches and amenities.
- Masseria Ruri Pulcra (Alessano): Located in the countryside near Santa Maria di Leuca, Masseria Ruri Pulcra offers guests a unique and memorable stay in a beautifully restored farmhouse. This agriturismo provides comfortable accommodation with rustic charm, as well as a restaurant serving traditional Puglian cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and explore the nearby towns and beaches of the Salento Peninsula.
What are the closest airports to Santa Maria di Leuca?
Brindisi Salento Airport (BDS):
1 hour 27 minutes by car (130 km)
Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (BRI):
2 hours 34 minutes by car (248 km)
1 hour 27 minutes by car (130 km)
Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (BRI):
2 hours 34 minutes by car (248 km)
What's the closest train station to Santa Maria di Leuca?
Tricase
- Located 17 kilometres from Santa Maria di Leuca (24 minutes by car)
- Regional trains connect to Lecce with journey times of just under two hours
What private transfer options are there for Santa Maria di Leuca?
A private transfer from Brindisi Salento Airport to Santa Maria di Leuca takes around one hour 30 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Santa Maria di Leuca?