Among the wonders of Salento, the Natural Reserve of Le Cesine stands out for its uncontaminated beauty. Located a few kilometers from Lecce, this natural oasis is located within a Special Conservation Area and is one of the last marshy areas that in the past extended from Otranto to Brindisi.
Managed by the WWF since 1979, the Le Cesine State Reserve offers hospitality to numerous animal and plant species, as well as being the perfect destination for those who want to escape the most crowded tourist destinations of Salento.
The name “Le Cesine” derives from the Latin term segines, which refers to uncultivated or unproductive lands. Today, those lands have become one of the most lush and protected environments in the region, hosting an extraordinary variety of natural life.
Prepare to discover a place where time seems to have stopped and where it is possible to immerse yourself in complete contact with nature.
General information
The Le Cesine Nature Reserve extends over approximately 350 hectares and represents one of the last coastal wetlands in Puglia. Located in the municipality of Vernole, near Lecce, this reserve plays a fundamental role in the conservation of Mediterranean biodiversity.
It is characterized by two ponds, Salapi and Pantano Grande, located a short distance from the sea and separated by a series of sand dunes.
Its symbol is the pochard, a specimen of diving duck that can be admired in the waters of the reserve in autumn and winter.
The innermost landscape of the WWF Puglia Oasis is dominated by woods of Aleppo pines, maritime pines, olive trees, cypresses and Vallone oaks. The marshy areas, however, are home to sea fennel and plantain. The coast is bordered by juniper, lily, sea rocket, sea soldanella and marine eryngium..
Throughout the year, numerous water birds choose these calm waters to rest and feed. For example, in winter and spring the marsh is home to tree frogs, common and green toads..
The oasis, finally, is an important point of reference for the migration of birds, as well as an unmissable stop for all birdwatching enthusiasts and curious observers of protected animal species.
What to do in Cesine?
The reserve offers a vast program of activities organizedby the WWFthat allow you to explore every corner of this natural park.
If you love birdwatching, arm yourself with binoculars and be ready to observe various migratory species in the designated viewing areas. This is one of the reasons why the Le Cesine natural oasis is also known internationally.
The best way to explore the Le Cesine Oasis is to take part in one of the tours in the company of the reserve’s guides, which will allow you to better understand the ecosystem, discover curiosities about the local flora and fauna and explore the most hidden corners of the park.
After a walk in close contact with nature, all you have to do is relax in complete tranquility on the free Le Cesine beach, located a couple of km from the reserve. This strip of fine sand with black shades offers an authentic and natural experience, far from mass tourism. For several kilometers the beach is free and uncontaminated but there are also some beach establishments, such as the Lido Le Cesine, the Ultima Spiaggia Le Cesineand the Lido masseria relais le cesine.
What animals are there in Cesine?
The Le Cesine Nature Reserve in Vernole is famous for its rich biodiversity and among the animals you might encounter, the protagonists are certainly the migratory birds.
For birdwatching enthusiasts, in fact, visiting the oasis is like being in paradise.
Furthermore, of notable interest are the various species of colorful butterflies, such as the vanessa del cardo and the swallowtail. Among amphibians, however, it is possible to encounter the crested newt.
But birds are not the only inhabitants of the oasis. Among the mammals there are species such as the fox, the badger and the weasel, which move stealthily through the woods and marshy areas.
How to visit Le Cesine Puglia
It is possible to visit Le Cesine only in the company of one of the official guides of the WWF reserve and booking is mandatory. The staff will accompany you through the various habitats, revealing the secrets of this natural paradise.
Periodically the association that manages the oasis organizes awareness-raising activities and thematic workshops.
If on the day you choose to visit the oasis there are no tours available, the WWF staff will be able to give you directions to follow the so-called “Fish Road“, a path owned by the state property which can be freely accessed and which is located close to the oasis.
Prices and timetables Le Cesine Lecce
The WWF Le Cesine Oasis can be visited all year round and guided tours are held on Sundays and public holidays at 10.30am and 4.30pm.
The cost of taking a guided tour varies depending on the offers available. For information you can contact the number +39. 329.8315714 or write to lecesine@wwf.it.
Where it is and how to get there
The Cesine are located in the municipality of Vernole, about 15 km east of Lecce, along the Adriatic coast of Salento. The reserve is easily accessible from Lecce and Otranto. During the summer period it is possible to get there with the Salento by Bus service, with line 101 which stops in Torre Specchia Ruggeri, near the Cesine. However, the easiest way to reach the natural park is by car.
From Lecce, take the eastern ring road exit 8B towards San Cataldo and follow the signs for Le Cesine.
From Otranto, take the coastal road that leads to Lecce, pass the seaside resort of San Foca and from here follow the signs for Riserva Naturale Le Cesine.
The Cesine natural park is a corner of Salento that deserves to be discovered, a natural oasis where tranquility and uncontaminated nature welcome you with open arms. The visit is perfect for those seeking relaxation, for families with children and for trekking and nature observation enthusiasts, an unusual experience in Puglia which deserves to be visited.
