Riserva Naturale Salina dei Monaci
The Salina dei Monaci of Torre Colimena is a natural oasis of rare beauty that deserves all our attention. Located along that stretch of coastline that connects Torre Colimena to Punta Prosciutto, this corner of paradise is now a Regional Nature Reserve thanks to its environmental characteristics that see the presence of ecosystems compatible with each other in addition to the constant presence of migratory bird species including the beautiful pink flamingos; they can be admired in flight with their characteristic long necks or while they are in the water calmly within the natural basin. This area represents the flagship of a nature trail rich in native species ranging from the extensive Mediterranean scrub to the high sand dunes to the presence of a small salt pond where absolute peace reigns among the various animal species and human presence even seems superfluous; even a simple lizard poses for a shot, such is the tranquility that one breathes in close contact with the surrounding nature. Walking through the different paths along the wooden fences positioned to guide the different routes you will feel enraptured by the beauty of the place and the scent of the strawberry trees combined with the other wild plant species will fully repay your decision to stop even for a moment to admire this wonderful area. The Salina is called dei Monaci because in the past this area fell under the jurisdiction of the Benedictine monks who held the management of the entire area. Today this earthly paradise is the pride of the entire Salento, completely recovered and reclaimed from the neglect of man who in past years decided to cross it by building a provincial road right along this stretch of coast. The beauties of our beloved Apulia never cease to amaze if you pass through these parts do not forget the Salina dei Monaci, but with the right respect and on tiptoe as nature asks... happy vacations!
Tonio Viva
