Because of the two close, yet very contrasting, East and West coasts, the Salento Pensinsular can feel like a Mediterranean island. On one side the sandy beaches of the Ionian, on the other the dramatic cliffs and coves of the Adriatic, dotted with delightful inlets for swimming.

This impression is reinforced by the mostly agricultural and fishing economy of the area. Salento was, until very recently, relatively inaccessible, meaning mass tourism never developed. Salento Club's philosophy is to help keep things this way, catering to the kind of tourist who appreciates what makes this once forgotten corner of Italy so unique.

While Salento's coastline offers the cleanest and clearest turquoise waters of the Mediterranean you mustn't overlook the fascinating villages, and ancient olive groves of the interior. For much of the year there is a vibrant local social and cultural life, which reaches its high point at the dozens of traditional village fairs. These coincide with significant moments in the agricultural and religious calendar (and, remember, there is a saint for every day!). Villagers may be busy celebrating the wine harvest, or dancing the tarantella in honour of Sain Paul, but they will always have time to make the 'forestiero' - or stranger - feel at home.

Every holiday brochure bangs on about Mediterranean hospitality, but here, we promise, it is for real! Locals rarely have the opportunity to meet foreigners and will be delighted to see you.

If music is your thing, remember Salento is reknowned throughout Italy for the renaissance in groups playing traditional music and young bands fusing Mediterranean and North African sounds.

If you are looking for history - where do you start? You can still feel the strong presence of Salento's Greek, Roman, Bizantine, Norman, Spanish and French heritages (among others). In the language, food and unique southern baroque architecture. And in the countryside you will find other-wordly stone dwellings set in groves of huge ancient olive trees which will cast their ancient spells on you...

Salento Club. Putting you in touch with the hidden places and the real people of Salento.