Cliffs, diving spots and fishermen from Arenosa to Tricase Porto

The cliffs and caves of Le Monache in Tricase Porto form a rocky backdrop to the bluest stretch of the Adriatic Sea in the Salento region. Amidst rock alcoves and stone basins, sea stacks and pinnacles – carved by quarrymen, made safe and enhanced by the restoration work on the coastal road – you can dive amongst schools of sea bream and their colonies, hoping to spot dolphins. The early 20th-century seaside villas slope down towards the small beach and the natural swimming pool formed by the perimeter of the small harbour: Anime Sante is a delightful gastronomic venture specialising in seafood tourism, whilst at Porto Vecchio you can sample the cuisine of Mare Vivo whilst watching the fishermen’s boats laden with nets. Menamè offers contemporary cuisine amidst euphorbia trees, whereas the Taverna del Porto sets its tables right on the ramparts. The following day, sea explorers can scout out the coves that wind through the reed beds and that island – it’s actually called ‘Isola’ – where you can’t moor but around which it’s thrilling to swim. Breakfast will be enjoyed at the Utòpia bakery in Marittima with brioches topped with tuppo. Afterwards, treat yourself to a refreshing morning swim at Arenosa, a picturesque stretch of coves favoured by French swimmers.