Pearl of Salento, the Cala dell’Acquaviva (Acquaviva Cove) is a true natural jewel. Like a secret casket, it is guarded by the lush surrounding vegetation that conceals it, until suddenly it opens before our eyes with its crystal-clear sea, leaving us open-mouthed.
According to many, it is reminiscent of the Norwegian fjords, not least because of the icy temperature of its turquoise waters; however, it can be comfortably visited in flip-flops and has an exquisite and unmistakable Mediterranean flavour.
Even Legambiente recognises and rewards this earthly paradise, crowning it with four sails.
Diving into the waters of the Cala dell’Acquaviva – Castro
The inlet is naturally bordered by a steep cliff that plunges into the blue sea, creating a unique panorama; this is in addition to the intoxicating scent of the wild surrounding vegetation that will welcome you on your arrival in this amazing environment.
Particularly favourable for spending a day there, it is protected from the winds and currents that characterise the neighbouring areas, making the water here particularly calm and transparent.
The Cala dell’Acquaviva itself is rather narrow, only about ten metres long, so it is advisable to arrive early to enjoy it in peace. In particular, in the mornings it is hit and warmed by the sun, while in the afternoons it is covered in shade.
The beach is pebbly, but the rocks smoothed by the sea are an excellent place to lie down.
The sea, which a little further north seals the meeting of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, is swimmable and the rocky seabed enhances its transparency. Entering it from the central part, the gradual rise in the water level makes it ideal for bathing. If you prefer diving, however, you have to move to the side areas.
This place is not only magical but also ideal for spending your summer days, as the icy waters for which it is famous will be the best remedy against the heat.
Those who prefer hiking, on the other hand, can climb the short path that branches off to the left of the cove, up to the top where a breathtaking view of the coastline opens up before their eyes, in an explosion of colours where the blue of the sea mixes with the blue of the sky and is embraced by the green of the vegetation.
Although the cove is free and wild, it has a car park and a bar to have ice cream and granitas always ready.
Once you have spent the day here, its deep blue waters are sure to captivate you, occupying a special place in your heart.
Where is the Acquaviva Cove?
How to get there without getting lost! Reaching it is extremely easy; it is part of the Costa d’Otranto Regional Park and is located between the towns of Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca, about one kilometer south of Castro.
From the road you will not be able to see the sea, so you will have to be careful to find the car park along the coast road. From here you can venture on foot through the Canale del Bosco, until after a few minutes it will open up before you in all its splendour.
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