The Salento is a land full of surprises waiting to be discovered. We are in the deep south, in the east, where you can admire the bright and colourful sunrise from the immensity of the sea. Here, the coastline tells centuries of history, and is characterised by high cliffs, countless hidden caves, and typical inlets that blend in with the surrounding vegetation of wild shrubs and expanses of Mediterranean scrub. This area is rich in nature trails to be contemplated. For those who love trekking or simply seek close contact with unspoilt nature, you will be spoilt for choice. One of the many paths leads down to the sea, through glimpses of land engulfed by the green of the wild vegetation, and with a wooden fence marking this steep path takes us straight to the Grotta delle Cipolliane, a suggestive cave located between Marina di Novaglie and the Ciolo, about 30 metres above sea level on an overhanging cliff. The Grotta delle Cipolliane presents itself to our eyes as a large cavity overlooking the crystal blue sea; from the top of the cave we can admire a panorama that has no equal, while emotions multiply as we scan the horizon of that faint line dividing the sky from the sea. The Grotta delle Cipolliane is quite deep and it is evident how atmospheric events have helped shape this fantastic example of a cave; different shades of colour characterise the rocky walls and range from white to grey, brown and bronze. Once you get to the bottom of the cavity, you can admire the beautiful view of the cave entrance that contrasts with the immense blue of the Adriatic; it is a bit of a struggle to reach it, but once you get there you will realise immediately that the effort has been repaid in full by the spectacle you can enjoy from inside this beautiful cave. This is the Salento, with all the richness of the territory and the charm of magical places like the Grotta delle Cipolliane... have a good summer.
Last update: 14/10/2022, Tonio Viva
