Torre Vado

Near the southern tip of Puglia, Torre Vado is a seaside town with alluring beaches. Wide stretches of golden sand are mixed with hidden coves and rocky reefs, offering something for everyone. Torre Vado is named for its waterfront watch tower, once part of a coastal defense network designed to protect the Salento from attacks by the Saracens. Today, the round tower with its fortifications lend a magical backdrop to the beach and boat marina.

Clustered around the piazza by the tower are the town's services, shops and restaurants, including some artisans, gelato, cafes, supermarkets and other food stores. Torre Vado is linked administratively to Marciano di Leuca, a few miles inland. There are sea caves known as grotte between Torre Vado and Punta Meliso, nice for exploring, swimming and diving. Aside from boating and water sports, there is fishing, horseback riding and hiking available here.

Le Vore di Barbarano are interesting karst formations, a geological spot nearby. Torre Vado is conveniently located near the Cape of Leuca and Gallipoli, giving it a strategic position for visiting the Salento. You can easily sample beaches on both the Ionian and Adriatic coasts from here.

Don't miss the excellent Puglia preparation of the area's abundant seafood, washed down with its local vintages.