Baia dei Turchi Otranto

Updated at: 01-12-2024

How this content can help you:

You will discover where the Baia dei Turchi is located and its importance as a protected area in the Regional Natural Park.
You will learn how to reach the bay from Otranto or Lecce, by car, bicycle, or public transport.
You will get to know the features of the beach: white sand, crystal-clear sea, surrounding pine forest.
You will discover the activities to do: nature hikes, snorkeling, guided tours in the pine forest.
You will learn the history of the name "Baia dei Turchi" and the places to visit nearby, such as Otranto and the Alimini Lakes.

Baia dei Turchi is located in Puglia, southern Italy, approximately 6 kilometers north of the city of Otranto, along the Adriatic coast. It is situated within the territory of the Parco Naturale Regionale Costa Otranto - Santa Maria di Leuca e Bosco di Tricase, a protected area that preserves the natural beauty of the region.

Baia dei Turchi has been listed among the top one hundred places that need protection in Italy and is also ranked twelfth in the "Luoghi del Cuore" (Places of the Heart) list. Therefore, it is certainly a must-visit destination if you are in Salento.

How to Get to Baia dei Turchi

By Car

From Otranto: Take the SP366 heading north towards Torre dell'Orso. After about 6 kilometers, you will see signs for Baia dei Turchi. Follow the directions to the parking area near the bay. Once parked, you will need to walk for approximately 10-15 minutes along a path through the pine forest to reach the beach.
From Lecce: Take the SS16 towards Maglie. Exit at Maglie and follow the signs to Otranto (SP363). From Otranto, follow the directions as mentioned above.
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Parking: There are paid parking areas located a short distance from the beach. From here, you need to walk about 10-15 minutes along a path through the pine forest to reach the beach.

The path is well-marked and immersed in nature, but it is not suitable for people with reduced mobility or strollers as it can be somewhat uneven in places.

By Bicycle

Baia dei Turchi can also be reached by bicycle from Otranto. The route is short and pleasant, passing through the countryside and coastal stretches.

Public Transport

During the summer season, there are often shuttle buses or local buses that depart from Otranto and stop near Baia dei Turchi. Check local schedules and routes for more information.

The Beach at Baia dei Turchi

The beach is renowned for its fine, white sand that creates a beautiful contrast with the deep blue of the Adriatic Sea. The waters are crystal clear and transparent, with gently sloping seabeds, making it ideal even for families with children.

The beach is surrounded by lush Mediterranean scrub and a pine forest, providing natural shade and a tranquil atmosphere. There are no visible constructions nearby, which helps maintain the natural beauty of the area.

Things to Do at Baia dei Turchi

If you're vacationing at Baia dei Turchi, you'll find there are many activities to enjoy besides soaking up the sun and swimming:

Nature Walks: Explore various trails surrounded by nature. This allows you to enjoy the beautiful landscape.
Snorkeling: You can dive and explore the marine life with the appropriate gear.
Excursions in the Pine Forest and Mediterranean Scrub: Local organizations offer guided tours within the pine forest and Mediterranean scrub surrounding Baia dei Turchi. These guided tours are ideal for discovering local flora and fauna, learning about the typical plants of the area, and appreciating the region's biodiversity.
Tour of the Salento Coast: From Otranto, you can join boat tours that will take you along the coast, including Baia dei Turchi. These tours often include stops for swimming, snorkeling, and admiring marine caves and hidden coves.

Why Is It Called Baia dei Turchi?

Baia dei Turchi derives its name from a historical event dating back to the 16th century. According to tradition, this is the place where the Turks landed during the Ottoman invasion of 1480.

That year, an Ottoman fleet led by Gedik Ahmet Pasha attacked and conquered Otranto, resulting in a massive massacre of the local population. The legend suggests that the Turks landed here, using the bay as a landing point before besieging the city. This is how the name "Baia dei Turchi" originated.