Grotta Grande del Ciolo, or Bocca di Pozzo as it is called by the locals, is a splendid example of a natural cave located a few hundred metres from the Ciolo bay. We are only a few kilometres from Santa Maria di Leuca, and this stretch of coastline is characterised by high cliffs and broad reefs ending in sheer drops directly into the sea. Due to its characteristic geological conformation, this stretch of coastline is rich in countless large and small caves, all worthy of a visit. The Grotta Grande del Ciolo, easily visible because of its entrance almost like a big mouth, overlooks the blue waters of a beautiful sea and can be visited inside, all you need is a mask and flippers and a few strokes to reach it. Inside, the Grotta Grande del Ciolo guards a marvellous lake with beautiful plays of light; the entrance to the cave is more than 30 metres high, and inside, various freshwater currents characterise this small lake illuminated by the shimmering gashes running through its walls. Here one breathes an air of absolute tranquillity and relaxation, a sense of peace pervades our emotions and one has the impression of being outside the world in close contact with an almost unknown nature, such is the emotional impact one feels inside this cave. The cave can also be reached externally from the main coastal road via a water drainage channel, only avoid venturing into unnecessary acrobatics if you are not an experienced rock climber with all the necessary equipment. On the left side of the narrow Ciolo inlet we find another cavity, again with access to the sea, and this is the Grotta Piccola del Ciolo, the little sister of the Grotta Grande del Ciolo, about 120 metres deep and flooded for its entire length. Unique beauties of a Salento to be experienced amidst sun, sea and wind, as the maxim goes... have a good summer from the caves of Ciolo.
Last update: 24/10/2022, Tonio Viva
