Hiking in the Porto Selvaggio Natural Reserve
Posted on
November 08, 2009 by
Stile Mediterraneo
One of the most beautiful experiences you should not miss when you come to Puglia is going hiking in the Porto Selvaggio Natural Reserve. Today the sun was shining after two days of heavy rain. I and Marika decided to go to Porto Selvaggio. It was beautiful! And of course we took so many pictures that we are now happy to share.
Porto Selvaggio natural reserve is facing the Ionian sea, a few miles north of Gallipoli.
Lots of pirates in the 16th and 17th centuries tried to invade Puglia from this part of the coast. Therefore there are many towers that were built to defend the coast. Lots of these towers are still very well preserved!
Today, my and Marika’s objective was to hike from the “Uluzzo” Tower going South toward the “Madonna dell’Alto” Tower.
You can choose among different paths (with different levels of difficulty) to go from one tower to the other.
There were many other plants from clover leaf, to wild rosemary, wild sage, figs and prickly pears.
It is impossible to describe how beautiful and intense the smell of all these plants and flowers was….together with the sea salt from the Ionian sea.
After a two hour walk, we found a little hidden beach where we stopped for lunch.
Even if it is November…..it was a pity not to have our bathing suit!
For more information about things to do in Puglia and Stile Mediterraneo cooking classes and wine tours in Puglia Italy please write at info.stile@gmail.com
Leslie! you and Kristine would have loved it! Next time yoy come back we have to go hiking together: we will definetely bring our focaccia and …. a bottle of our sparkling white wine! We can't wait to have you back…..
I'm so sad Kristine and I weren't there to enjoy the hike with you (and the weather!). We loved our trip with you so much and can't wait to come back!