Dunes and sand on the Ionian coast
On the Ionian coast east of Taranto, in the municipality of Maruggio, the seaside resort of Campomarino has one of the most beautiful and best preserved dune systems in Apulia. For about eight kilometres, the beach of fine golden sand is backed by dunes up to ten metres high, covered with Mediterranean vegetation: junipers, mastic trees, sea lilies, sea holly and wild thyme, which fix the sand and create a habitat for insects, reptiles and birds. They are part of a protected area, the Riserva delle Dune di Campomarino.
Walkways of wood cross the dunes to protect them and lead to the beach, which faces a clear, turquoise sea, with shallow water near the shore, ideal for families and children. The coast is dotted with old coastal watchtowers, built in the sixteenth century to defend against pirate raids. The village of Campomarino has a small harbour and seafood restaurants, and the hinterland of Maruggio, a village with an old Templar commandery, offers olive groves and vineyards of Primitivo. Unlike the more famous beaches of the Salento, Campomarino is quieter even in summer.
Tip: respect the paths across the dunes and do not walk on the vegetation; the sunset from the dunes over the Ionian Sea is spectacular.
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