Baia dei Turchi, set along the beautiful coast of Salento, is a corner of paradise bathed by the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Known for its wild beauty and golden sand, the bay is surrounded by lush vegetation of Mediterranean scrub that exudes intense scents of rosemary and myrtle. Its transparent waters invite swimming and snorkeling, while the surrounding landscape, with its cliffs and sand dunes, offers ideal spaces for long regenerating walks or relaxation under the shade of the pines of Aleppo. It is a perfect refuge for those seeking peace and unspoiled beauty in the heart of Salento.
General information
Baia dei Turchi, located a few kilometers north of Otranto, has gained historical fame as the alleged landing place of the Turkish warriors during the siege of the city in the fifteenth century, known as the Battle of Otranto. This corner of paradise is renowned for its sandy and uncontaminated beach, which is part of the protected oasis of the Alimini lakes, one of the most significant ecosystems of Salento and Puglia.
Baia dei Turchi and surrounding area are classified as a Site of Community Importance (SCI), which underlines its ecological importance. In 2007, the Italian Environment Fund (FAI) included the Baia dei Turchi among the top 100 places to be saved in Italy, highlighting its natural and cultural value. In the following census of 2009, the Baia dei Turchi was elevated to 12th place nationally and first in Puglia in the ranking of “places of the heart”, confirming its status as a environmental jewel to be preserved and appreciated.
The beach of Baia dei Turchi
The unspoiled beauty of this bay, honoured with the prestigious Blue Flag and the 5 Vele di Legambiente, attracts every year numerous travelers and adventurers fascinated by this place. Its crystal clear waters are irresistible for swimming and snorkeling, in a unique natural environment. The bay is a sequence of sandy coves interspersed with low cliffs, protected by a jagged cliff and surrounded by lush vegetation. Despite its wild nature, a bathing establishment offers all the necessary comforts for a day at sea in total relaxation.
For those who want to admire it at its peak, we recommend visiting it when the Sirocco blows, ensuring a calm and crystal clear sea. Baia dei Turchi is perfect for families with children on holiday in Salento, but it is also a popular place for young groups looking for a natural and suggestive environment to live unforgettable moments.
Lido at the Bay of the Turks
The only bathing establishment in Baia dei Turchi is that of the Resort Hotel Baia dei Turchi, which offers the main services to enjoy a day at the beach, as umbrellas, sunbeds and ecological toilets and a small bar kiosk.
What to do in the Bay of the Turks
There are many activities to be done in the Bay of the Turks, thanks to the numerous leisure opportunities offered by the surrounding landscape:
- Pine Walks: Enjoy the natural beauty of the pine forest surrounding the bay, perfect for relaxing walks and picnics in the shade of trees.
- Horse riding: Explore the surroundings on horseback, a suggestive way to discover the area. There are several companies that organize excursions in the surroundings.
- Boat excursions: Set off on exciting boat trips along the Adriatic coast, admiring the picturesque coastline and sea caves.
- Trekking: Take the trails through the surrounding countryside, ideal for nature lovers.
- Kayak: Rent a kayak and explore the crystal clear waters of the bay and its surroundings.
- Bike tour: Cycle along scenic roads connecting coastal towns and surrounding villages.
- Snorkeling: See the rich marine life of the bay’s clear waters, ideal for snorkelling and light diving.
Where it is and how to get there
The Baia dei Turchi is a beautiful inlet located along the Adriatic coast in Salento, precisely in the municipality of Otranto, in the province of Lecce. Along the same coast, a few kilometers away, there are some of the most beautiful places in Salento, such as Torre dell’Orso, Sant’Andrea, the Grotta della Poesia, Porto Badisco and Castro.
The best way to reach the Bay of the Turks is by car. If you start from Lecce, just take the SS16, then the SP48 towards Martano and continue in the direction of Otranto until the SP341. Here you take the road that will lead to Baia dei Turchi. The Bay of the Turks is about 50 km from Lecce.
Alternatively, you can arrive at Baia dei Turchi by bus taking the line 101 of Salento by bus (direction Porto), get off at the entrance of the Club Med and continue on foot for 2.2 km.
Where to park at Baia dei Turchi?
Near the beach of Baia dei Turchi, there are several parking lots where you can leave your car comfortably. Some of these car parks offer a shuttle service included in the parking price, making it easy to access the bay by a short walk of about 200-300 meters, depending on the location of the car park.
Available parking spaces:
- The Parcheggio de Benedetto is located about 500 meters from the Bay and includes in its service shuttle, all at a single rate. It is equipped with video surveillance, wi-fi and a refreshment point for the comfort of visitors.
- The Tenuta Schito is located a short distance from the pine forest, offering services such as showers and foot-washing, with a fixed fee for the whole day.
- The Parcheggio De Marco is the closest to the bay, featuring a shady area and an affordable price, ensuring easy access to the beach.
