Santa  Maria  al  Bagno​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 16 February 2022
The beach resort of Santa Maria al Bagno is situated in the heart of the Salento in Puglia and officially under the comune of Nardò.

This is one of the prettiest locations in the whole region, a beach enclosed on three sides by the village's shops, cafes and restaurants. Of particular interest is the colour of the water here which is a beautiful display of turquoise.
Santa Maria al Bagno is relatively little-known compared to the headline-grabbing resorts of the Salento such as Otranto or nearby Gallipoli with which it shares the Gulf of Taranto. The water in this part of the Ionian Coast is breathtakingly beautiful and just around the headland to the north of Santa Maria is another hidden gem: Santa Caterina with its own dazzling display of coastal beauty. 
Related links
Santa Maria al Bagno is a quaint seaside town located in the Puglia region of southern Italy. Its history dates back to ancient times, and archaeological findings suggest that the area was once inhabited by the Messapii, an ancient Italic tribe. Over the centuries, the town was influenced by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines.

The name "Santa Maria al Bagno" is believed to have originated from the presence of natural saltwater springs and the tradition of local fishermen using bags to preserve the fish they caught. In the 19th century, the town became a popular holiday destination for wealthy Italian families, attracted by its scenic beauty and therapeutic saltwater baths.

Tourist Sights: 

  • Santa Maria al Bagno Beach: The town boasts a beautiful sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing by the sea.
  • Torre Santa Maria: The town's iconic Torre Santa Maria, or Santa Maria Tower, is a historic watchtower that dates back to the 16th century. It was built as a defense against pirate raids and provides panoramic views of the coastline.
  • Santuario della Madonna di Santa Maria al Bagno: This sanctuary, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is perched on a hilltop overlooking the town and offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
  • Grotta del Cavallo: Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Grotta del Cavallo, a sea cave that can be accessed by boat or kayak, revealing stunning rock formations and clear waters.
  • Natural Reserve of Porto Selvaggio: Located a short distance from Santa Maria al Bagno, this coastal nature reserve offers hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Regional Nature Park of Porto Selvaggio and Palude del Capitano: This park, with its wetlands and coastal dunes, provides a habitat for various plant and animal species and is perfect for nature walks and birdwatching.

Local Cuisine: While in Santa Maria al Bagno, visitors can enjoy traditional Apulian dishes, such as seafood specialties, pasta dishes, and local wines.
Santa Maria al Bagno - frazione di Nardò
Comune: Nardò

Province: Lecce

Region: Puglia

Highlights: Spiaggia di Santa Maria al Bagno, turquoise sea

​​​​​Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2021 - 2022

Close by: Santa Caterina, Porto Selvaggio, Galatina, Gallipoli

Recommended accommodation: Grand Hotel Riviera

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the three thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy, particularly important at the moment at the time of the pandemic, via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.