Spring: The best time to connect with nature in Salento - Trekking in Puglia

And the time has come. Nature, like an old friend returning after a long absence, graces us with its vibrant hues and fragrant whispers. While Salento is renowned for its sun-kissed beaches and warm sands, few are privy to its true splendor during spring. It’s a secret whispered among the wildflowers, carried by the winds, and etched into the very fabric of the landscape. Here, you can witness the true and local Salento.

Spring awakens the land, painting it in a symphony of colors and perfumes. It beckons travelers to step beyond the ordinary, to explore the hidden gems that lie nestled in its heart. And there, amidst the rolling hills and ancient olive groves, awaits the Sentiero Cipolliane—a trekking trail that transcends mere physical exertion. It’s a passage to connection, to understanding, and to the soul of Salento.

But who better to guide us than a local?

Natascia Miccolli, a local who holds a deep affection for Salento, is not only a close friend but also a fervent admirer of the region. Balancing her time between Milan and Salento, she eagerly seizes any opportunity to explore and show us the secret green spots of the area by trekking in Puglia, as well as connecting us to the real people of the land.

The journey begins at the breathtaking Ciolo Canyon, just 40 kilometers from Palazzo Piccinno, where sheer cliffs plunge dramatically into the crystal-clear waters below. Carved by the relentless force of the sea over millennia, this awe-inspiring gorge offers a glimpse into the ancient history of this land. On the journey down the canyon, you might meet the local rock climbers that might give you a tip on the best spot for a picture.

As we stand on the edge of the canyon, gazing out at the expanse of azure waters stretching to the horizon, we are filled with a sense of wonder and reverence for the raw power of nature.

The descent continues until we reach the spiaggia del Ciolo (Ciolo beach). This is one of our favorite places in the whole Puglia. We love to come here and read a book, have a picknick or simply just admire the clifs and the water by the bridge.

From Ciolo Canyon, the Sentiero Cipolliane beckons us onward, winding its way through a landscape. The trail takes us on a journey through time, past ancient olive groves and citrus orchards that have stood the test of centuries.

As we ascend higher, the landscape unfolds before us in all its splendor. Rolling hills carpeted with emerald-green grass stretch out to meet the endless sky, while distant villages cling to the slopes like jewels nestled in the earth. At every turn, we are greeted by panoramic vistas that take our breath away, reminding us of the infinite beauty of the world around us.

Along the way, we pause to admire the intricate patterns carved into the limestone.

And our trekking ends with the Grotte delle Cipolliane. It is a truly beautiful place. Almost like an acient limestone sanctuary perched precariously above the Adriatic.

The trekking journey takes approx. 2.5 hours and please bring a nice cold bottle of water (or picnic bag!). For further details on the route, please reach out directly to us and we will be happy to give you more details.