Travelling along the coast road from Gallipoli to Marina di Mancaversa, heading south, further and further down the western Salento coast that is reflected in the wonderful waters of the Ionian Sea, we arrive at Punta Pizzo, so called because it is located on the extreme tip of the Gulf of Gallipoli, one of the most enchanting and fascinating places in the whole of Salento. Sometimes, when writing a description or even commenting with a friend on the feelings and experiences we have had during a holiday, we try to find the right words to describe the places where we have spent our days; well, this does not work with Punta Pizzo because this place has to be lived, breathed, touched by hand, every sensory aspect of our body has to be in physical contact with the surrounding reality in order to feel those emotions that cannot be described with mere words. We are located within the Regional Natural Park of Sant"Andrea Island and Punta Pizzo Coastline, about 700 hectares of natural lung that includes an intense Mediterranean maquis with autochthonous species of shrubs, aromatic plants such as wild rosemary and thyme, the ample pine forests that are always comfortable for the vast areas of shade they provide during the summer heat, and nature trails for trekking and hiking enthusiasts to discover. Completing this magnificent corner of paradise is the Punta Pizzo beach, a stretch of free beach lost in time. Here, nature has stopped the course of events, drawing true glimpses of an enchanting landscape with soft, fine sand, angles of cliffs that shimmer in the sunlight, and a sea so clear blue that you could imagine it as in a postcard to send to your closest friends. The beach has that wild and lonely look, the place seems as if isolated from the rest of the world. Take only your beach towel with you, turn off your mobile phones, unplug everything, you are on holiday in one of the most fascinating places in Apulia, close your eyes and let the Salento sun warm you, then take advantage of the cool, crystal-clear sea for a refreshing dip. The water remains shallow for long stretches, so if you have children, let them play in peace and quiet. Snorkelling enthusiasts can also discover the seabed, so luminous and rich in the most diverse marine species, while being massaged by the gentle waves of this enchanting sea. Sometimes, as I write, perhaps I may give the impression of exaggerating when describing certain places or the various stretches of coastline in this magical land called Salento, but I was born here, this is my natural environment and my people, this is where I grew up, so even if in describing a place I can convey that sense of exaggeration, know that it is not at all intended, reality must be experienced first hand to be able to judge and describe certain feelings. What are you waiting for the summer is coming, so a live tip ... the free beach of Punta Pizzo is south of Gallipoli ... happy holidays.
Last update: 01/10/2022, Tonio Viva
