From the City to the Nature Reserve: A Weekend of History and Nature in Salento

There are places where culture and landscape blend effortlessly—and Salento is one of them. A land of light and contrasts, it tells stories carved in Baroque stone and whispered among centuries-old olive trees. It also welcomes travelers into pristine natural settings, where time seems to slow down. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that combines discovery, relaxation, and wonder, a weekend in Salento between historic towns and natural parks is the perfect choice.

Lecce: stone, art, and the Baroque spirit

The journey starts in Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South.” As you stroll through its historic center, you’ll be enchanted by the Leccese Baroque, a unique style defined by soft limestone and intricate carvings that adorn churches, balconies, and doorways. Every corner is worth a photo—and invites reflection, revealing a beauty that unfolds over time.

From the Cathedral (Duomo) to the Basilica of Santa Croce, from the former Teatini Convent to lively squares and quiet alleys, Lecce is not a city you simply visit—it’s one you experience. A tip? Take a break in a café under the arcades of Piazza Sant’Oronzo and try the traditional caffè leccese (iced coffee with almond milk), while watching the city go by.

Into the wild: exploring Le Cesine Nature Reserve

Just a few kilometers from Lecce, the landscape transforms. From the urban heart of the city, you quickly find yourself immersed in the green of the Adriatic coast, where one of southern Italy’s most important WWF-protected areas unfolds: the Le Cesine Nature Reserve. This 350-hectare oasis is made up of wetlands, pine forests, coastal dunes, and a diverse range of habitats that attract migratory birds throughout the year.

Walking through Le Cesine’s trails is a deeply restorative experience: nature’s sounds replace the city’s noise, and if you’re lucky, you might spot herons, marsh harriers, or kingfishers. The trails are easy and accessible, making this an ideal outing for families, birdwatchers, or anyone simply seeking fresh air and a quiet escape.

Between villages and countryside: Salento’s rural charm

The beauty of a weekend in Salento also lies in its scenic backroads, where rural life and small historic villages alternate in a peaceful, timeless rhythm. Between Lecce and the coast, you’ll find places like Acaya, a fortified village with a perfectly preserved Renaissance castle, and Vernole, surrounded by olive groves and traditional masserie (farmhouses).

These areas are great for a culinary break—whether at a countryside trattoria or a local agriturismo, you can taste dishes rooted in tradition: orecchiette with turnip greens, ciceri e tria (chickpeas and fried pasta), hot pittule (savory fritters), and the iconic pasticciotto pastry.

Off-season by the sea: wild and peaceful

If the weather’s good, you can end the weekend with a touch of blue. The beaches near San Foca, Torre Specchia, and the Le Cesine area are stunning even in the off-season—empty, windswept, and beautifully raw.

A walk along the shore or across the wooden walkways leading through the dunes will make you feel truly elsewhere—far from the noise, close to what really matters.

A short itinerary rich in emotions

A weekend in Salento is much more than just a short escape. It’s a journey through time and scenery, where timeless cities meet silent reserves; where Baroque architecture reflects centuries of culture, and clear skies mirror tranquil wetlands.

Whether you’re seeking inspiration, peace, or adventure, this corner of Puglia welcomes you with its colors, flavors, and unique way of making you feel part of something real.