To celebrate the start of the season, The Octopus has been looking for a mesmerizing getaway towards the best stopovers in the Apulia region. Among the endless splendid destinations, it has found the enchanting region of Apulia!
Nestled at the very end of Italy’s famous boot, Apulia is a gem unlike any other, with anchorages and pontoons waiting to be explored.
In this article, we will take you on an unforgettable journey to discover the best stopovers in the Apulia region. So, hoist your sails and chart your course, The Octopus promises you will not regret it!
The best stopovers in the Apulia region
Santa Maria di Leuca
At the very end of Italy’s boot stands the town of Santa Maria di Leuca, and this is where you will find our first anchorage. Located near the entrance of the town’s marina and right across from the beach, this anchorage is ready to take your breath away! Its sandy shores and light electric blue waters make it a perfect stopover for an amazing experience on Italy’s coastline.
This anchorage is protected from winds coming from the west to the east by the north. The sandbanks will ensure great holding, and thanks to the clear waters and shallow shores (around five meters), you will be able to avoid the rocks that can be encountered there.
Once the worry of drifting away has been subsided, you can let the beauty of the landscape sink in, while enjoying everything that this location has to offer! Santa Maria di Leuca is an animated town, famous for its lighthouse and Sanctuary – the latter was built to commemorate the passage of St. Peter. While the town’s charm is definitely enticing, you may want to pursue more tranquil activities, and there is nothing better than spending the day on a gorgeous sandy beach! In other words, this anchorage makes a perfect stopover, so why not drop by this summer?
Otranto
Our second anchorage is located by the town of Otranto, a beautiful comune awaiting your visit. This is a perfect stopover if you’re exploring Greece or Albania as it is conveniently located closeby. On top of its convenient location inside a bay, this anchorage also boasts a gorgeous setting in crystal-clear waters along with the charm of a coastal town.
After you have found the perfect spot for your boat, you will be able to anchor in sandbanks resting between five and ten meters deep, where you will also be protected from the northwest to the southeast by the south.
Once well-secured, you will be able to take in all the beauty that this anchorage has to offer! From your boat, you will see the beach and the town of Otranto, inviting you for further exploration. Its picturesque architecture with small alleyways and local restaurants will surely make your stay memorable.
For those seeking more adventure, you can also rent a car and drive to “The Florence of the South”. Lecce is a gorgeous Italian city, renowned for its Baroque architecture and its “Lecce stones” which made it famous. Of course, you can also stay at the anchorage and enjoy a short or longer stay because this anchorage has it all!
Batteria Pisacane
After you have recharged your batteries in Otranto, The Octopus has a more animated stopover to show you, in Brindisi. This anchorage is located right across from the marina, thus offering protection from all winds except southerlies. In sandy and muddy sandbanks, you will have good holding at approximately 10 meters deep. This is the perfect stop to explore the city of Brindisi!
Brindisi boasts a rich blend of historical and cultural attractions, including the iconic Roman Column, the medieval Castello Svevo, and the Romanesque Cathedral of Brindisi. You can explore the city’s vibrant waterfront, stroll along the scenic Lungomare Regina Margherita, and enjoy the pristine beaches and diverse wildlife of the nearby Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve.
The city also offers a rich culinary scene, with local specialties like orecchiette pasta and fresh seafood. With its fascinating museums, such as the Archaeological Museum Francesco Ribezzo, and lively annual festivals, Brindisi provides a captivating experience that highlights its historical significance and cultural vibrancy – and it is definitely worth stopping by!
Molo Margherita - Free public quay
In the magnificent town of Monopoli, you will have a totally different experience! The free public quay of Molo Margherita is definitely worth a mention. While the location might not be surrounded by natural beauty, it is a very convenient stopover nonetheless.
Before arrival, we highly recommend calling the Guardia Costera to ensure a spot at the quay. You will also have to register upon arrival. The quay is protected from winds and swell coming from the south to the northeast by the west, which will ensure a pleasant stay in a quiet area.
Once safely docked, you can explore Monopoli – with its narrow streets, white-washed buildings and ancient churches that reflect its medieval past. Keep in mind that you can stay at this stopover for 24 hours, and one person must always stay on board, so this quay is best fit to spend the night, completely free of charge!
San Domino
The Octopus is now taking you to a different anchorage, by the island of San Domino, in the archipelago of the Tremiti Islands. This anchorage is the perfect spot for those seeking natural beauty in the breathtaking clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.
At the anchorage, you will be protected from winds and swell coming from the southwest to the northeast. Mooring buoys are available and close to each other, so if your boat is over 12 meters, there might not be enough room for you. You can also find a spot to anchor in sandbanks between 2 and 5 meters deep. Once safely moored or anchored, you can finally take in the surrounding beauty that lies before you!
The anchorage of San Domino is perfectly located to explore the Tremiti Islands, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. You can either bask on the pristine sandy shores of Cala delle Arene or seek tranquility at the secluded Cala Matano. The island’s rugged coastline is ideal for exploring the stunning Grotta del Bue Marino, a sea cave renowned for its clear waters and striking rock formations.
Nature enthusiasts can wander through the lush pine forests that blanket the island, providing scenic trails and breathtaking sea views.
For underwater explorers, the crystal-clear waters around San Domino offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, teeming with vibrant marine life. In short, the Tremiti Islands have it all for an adventurous and mesmerizing retreat in the Adriatic Sea!
Punta del Scaccione
To end our article of the best stopovers in the Apulia region on a wonderful note, The Octopus decided to stay in the Tremiti Islands, this time at Punta del Scaccione. Nestled between the islands of Capraia and San Nicola, it is protected from north and northwerstern winds, aswell as south and southeastern winds.
When it comes to exploring, there is plenty to do on every island. On San Nicola, visitors can delve into history by exploring the Abbey of Santa Maria a Mare, a medieval Benedictine monastery with stunning views and rich heritage.
The island also features the impressive Castello Svevo, a fortress that narrates tales of bygone eras. Nature lovers will find Capraia enchanting, with its unspoiled landscapes and thriving wildlife, perfect for hiking and bird-watching.
The clear waters around Capraia and the tiny, uninhabited Pianosa are a diver’s paradise, offering glimpses of vibrant marine life and underwater caves. Lastly, the rugged and quiet paths of Cretaccio provide a serene escape for those seeking solitude and scenic beauty.
This is the end of the best stopovers in the Apulia region! We hope you enjoyed this itinerary made just for you, and that you will pay these locations a visit.
Before you leave, check out our other articles in Italy!
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