Why is it called the Bay of Turks?
The name of the Bay of Turks comes from the event in which Turkish troops, led by Commander Acmet Pasha, landed in the bay in 1480. This episode marked the beginning of the siege of Otranto, during which the Turkish fleet attacked the city. After two weeks of fighting, the citizens of Otranto suffered heavy losses: many were killed or enslaved, while 813 people, who refused to abjure their Christian faith, were martyred on Minerva's Hill. Their relics are still preserved in Otranto Cathedral, and every year, between August 13 and 14, a festival is held in honor of the Holy Martyrs.
Where is Baia dei Turchi located?
The Baia dei Turchi in Puglia, positioned a short distance north of Otranto, forms a valuable part of the protected oasis of Laghi Alimini and is listed among the 100 places preserved by FAI in Italy. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, this stretch of coastline is famous for its extraordinary beauty, surrounded by some of Salento's most enchanting beaches, such as Torre dell'Orso, Sant'Andrea, the striking Grotta della Poesia, Porto Badisco, Castro and many others.
Baia dei Turchi Otranto: how to get there?
How to get to the Baia dei Turchi? To reach the Baia dei Turchi you have several options: for example, you can travel by bus from Otranto or Lecce; or, if you travel by car in Salento, you can arrive right near the Baia dei Turchi and leave your car in one of the parking lots in the area.
How to get to the Bay of Turks by bus?
How to get to the Bay of Turks by car?
If you have the possibility to get to the Baia dei Turchi by car from Lecce you just take the SS16, then take the SP48 towards Martano and continue towards Otranto until you cross SP341. Here take the road that will take you to Baia dei Turchi. It is about 50 km from Lecce so in about 45 minutes you will have reached your destination.
Baia dei Turchi: where to park?
Near the beach of Baia dei Turchi there are several parking lots where you can leave your car. Some, being far from the beach offer shuttle service included in the price of parking. From here, there will then be a walking distance of about 200/300 meters (depending on the parking lot, the distance to the beach varies). Here are some of the parking lots in Baia dei Turchi:
- Parking de Benedetto: located 500 meters from the Bay, it offers shuttle service included in the price of parking (at a one-time fee). It also has video surveillance, wi-fi and a food court.
- Tenuta Schito parking lot: located a short walk from the pine forest, it has a shower and foot wash and has a fixed rate for the entire day.
- Baia dei Turchi parking De Marco: closest to the bay, shady and inexpensive.
Baia dei Turchi: the beach
The Baia dei Turchi beach is disarmingly beautiful: awarded the Blue Flag and 5 Sails by Legambiente, it features crystal clear water that is hard to resist. The bay is a succession of sandy coves alternating with stretches of low cliffs, sheltered by the jagged cliff rich in dense vegetation. Although it is a rather wild area, there is also a bathing establishment, which offers all the amenities to fully enjoy a day at the beach. Our advice is, if you want to see it in all its splendor, to go there when the sirocco blows so you will find ideal conditions for the calm and crystal clear sea.
Precisely because of its characteristics, the Baia dei Turchi is an ideal place for vacations in Salento with children, but it is also much appreciated by groups of young people.
Lidos Baia dei Turchi
On the coast, the only equipped lido is the Resort Hotel Baia dei Turchi, named after the resort itself. The beach offers full services, including umbrellas, sunbeds and eco-friendly toilets, as well as a cozy kiosk bar.
What to do in Baia dei Turchi?
Baia dei Turchi offers a wide range of activities thanks to its varied landscape, which lends itself perfectly to fun and relaxation. Here you can immerse yourself in nature with walks through pine forests and rejuvenating picnics, or venture into exciting horseback riding experiences. For sea lovers, boat trips, snorkeling and kayaking offer unforgettable moments, while hiking enthusiasts can explore breathtaking trails.
In addition, enchanting natural scenery, crystal-clear sea and charming seaside villages can be discovered around Baia dei Turchi, enriching the travel experience with a wealth of discoveries.
Here are some places not to be missed:
Baia dei Turchi: where to eat?
There are no restaurants where you can eat directly in Baia dei Turchi, but in the immediate vicinity you'll be spoiled for choice. Just move to Otranto and you'll find a wide range of dining options, including fast food, fresh fish restaurants, authentic Salento trattorias and pizzerias.
Here are some suggestions for restaurants in the vicinity of Baia dei Turchi:
- Cicerietria, just 2 km from Baia dei Turchi, to enjoy the traditional flavors of Salento cuisine;
- L'altro Chef - Alla Risacca, in Otranto, perfect for lovers of fresh fish;
- La Bella Idrusa, in Otranto, which offers an extensive menu of Salento dishes, pizzas and fish specialties.
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