The Cammino del Salento
From Lecce to Santa Maria di Leuca on foot, past cliffs, olive groves and ancient villages. Santa Cesarea Terme is one of the most beautiful stages of the route: stay with us, get your credential stamped and set off again well rested.
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The Cammino del Salento is one of Italy’s most fascinating treks: over 100 km along the “heel” of Puglia, where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea. Villa Cesarea is an official partner of the Cammino: we welcome pilgrims with the official stamp for their credential and reserved discounts for those who book directly with us.
Why stop at Villa Cesarea
After one of the most spectacular (and demanding) coastal stages of the Cammino, a charming guesthouse overlooking the sea awaits you.
Official stamp
We are an official stamp point of the Cammino del Salento: add the Santa Cesarea Terme seal to your credential, valid for the Testimonium in Leuca.
Pilgrim discount
Special rates for walkers on the Cammino who book directly on our website, by phone or on WhatsApp. Ask us about our current offer.
Rest with a sea view
Elegant rooms, many with a private jacuzzi, a short walk from the town centre and the sulphur spas: the perfect reward after more than 20 km on foot.
A trail between two seas
The Cammino starts at Porta Napoli in Lecce, where you receive your first stamp, and splits into two routes: the Via dei Borghi (Villages Route) through the inland Grecìa Salentina, and the Via del Mare (Sea Route) along the Adriatic coast. The two routes meet again in Otranto and continue together to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae, at the end of the land.
Whichever route you choose, Santa Cesarea Terme is a must-stop: here the stage from Otranto ends and the one towards Castro and Marina Serra begins.
The stages from Otranto to Leuca
This is the section shared by both routes, and the most scenic: sheer cliffs, coastal towers, caves and crystal-clear coves.
The wildest coastline
From the city of the Martyrs to the Serpent Tower, the bauxite quarry lake, the Punta Palascìa Lighthouse (Italy’s easternmost point) and the bay of Porto Badisco, where according to Virgil Aeneas first landed.
Santa Cesarea Terme: stamp, hot shower and sea-view relaxation
End of the stage among the Moorish architecture of Villa Sticchi and the sulphur caves. Drop by for the official stamp, leave your backpack and enjoy the sunset: tomorrow morning a hearty breakfast awaits you before you set off again.
Caves, castles and natural pools
You start from the bay of Porto Miggiano, climb up to the Aragonese castle of Castro, then Cala dell’Acquaviva, Torre del Sasso, the Sette Pajare, Tricase Porto and the natural pool of Marina Serra.
Towards the end of the land
The Cipolliane Trail, the Ciolo Bridge 40 metres above the sea, the stone ritual at Erma Antica and finally the 284 steps of the monumental staircase up to the Sanctuary of Leuca, where you collect your Testimonium.
The pilgrim package
- Official Cammino del Salento stamp on your credential
- Reserved discount when booking directly with Villa Cesarea
- Breakfast to set off with the right energy
- Tips on the route and on water points for the next stage
- Option to stay longer and explore Santa Cesarea, its caves and spas
To get the discount, mention “Cammino del Salento” when booking and show your credential at check-in.
Check availabilityFrequently asked questions
Where is Villa Cesarea in relation to the route?
In Santa Cesarea Terme, on the Adriatic coast between Otranto and Castro: right on the section shared by the Via dei Borghi and the Via del Mare, at the end of the stage from Otranto and the start of the stage towards Marina Serra.
How do I get the pilgrim discount?
Book directly with us (website, phone, email or WhatsApp), let us know you are walking the Cammino del Salento and show your credential on arrival. The discount does not apply to bookings made through external portals.
Can I get my credential stamped even if I’m not staying with you?
The stamp is intended for our guests; if you are passing by, message us on WhatsApp and, if we are on site, we will be happy to welcome you.
When is the best time to walk the Cammino?
Spring and autumn are ideal: mild temperatures, paths in bloom and the sea still (or already) warm enough for a swim. In summer it’s best to set off at dawn and carry plenty of water.
Where can I get the credential and what is the Testimonium?
The credential (the “pilgrim passport”) can be requested through the official website camminodelsalento.it and at participating points. By collecting the stage stamps and arriving in Leuca on foot you receive the Testimonium, the certificate of completion.
Your Cammino deserves a special stop
Book your night in Santa Cesarea Terme: official stamp, pilgrim discount and all of Villa Cesarea’s hospitality.
Book now WhatsApp +39 353 4492695Official information on the route and the credential: camminodelsalento.it
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