Start our journey by exploring the coastal natural treasures near Lecce. Our first stop is the Riserva Naturale Le Cesine, located just a dozen kilometers east of the city. This protected area of 620 hectares is a true paradise for birders and wildlife lovers. The reserve is famous for its extensive wetlands, which are home to many species of waterfowl and migratory birds. Visitors can admire flamingos, herons and many other rare species. Note the well-prepared educational trails and observation points, which allow close encounters with nature without disturbing its balance.

Another place that impresses with its coastal location is the Parco naturale regionale Porto Selvaggio. This park, stretching over 1,000 hectares, offers a remarkable combination of pine forests, rocky cliffs and the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea. It is an ideal place for hiking, family picnics or swimming in hidden coves. We especially recommend visiting the Belvedere Porto Selvaggio viewpoint, which offers breathtaking views of the entire area. The park is also famous for its abundance of Mediterranean flora, including rare species of orchids.

For those who want to experience true wilderness, a visit to the Torre Guaceto Marine Protected Area is recommended. This marine protected area, located a little further north of Lecce, is a true ecological gem of the region. It includes not only coastal waters, but also sandy beaches and wetlands. It's an ideal place for snorkeling and observing underwater life, as well as for quiet walks along the pristine coastline. Note that access to some parts of the reserve is restricted in order to protect sensitive ecosystems, so local guides are recommended.

All of these places have one thing in common - they are a testament to the extraordinary biodiversity of the Puglia region and are an excellent alternative to crowded tourist beaches. They offer not only the opportunity for relaxation and contact with nature, but also environmental education for the whole family. Remember to be extra cautious and respectful of the surrounding nature while visiting, observing the rules of the parks and reserves.

Following on to the next part of our nature journey, we will focus on the 'green lungs' of Lecce and its surroundings. These areas, while less well-known than the coastal attractions, are an equally fascinating part of the local ecosystem and are a great place for family outings.

Let's start with Foresta Urbana di Lecce, a remarkable example of urban biodiversity. This urban forest, created on the site of a former quarry, is proof of how nature can reclaim land degraded by man. Today, it's a WWF oasis where you can enjoy typical Mediterranean vegetation, as well as observe many species of birds and small mammals. Educational trails and regular events organized by volunteers make it an ideal place for a family outing combined with learning about ecology and environmental protection.

Another place worth visiting is Parco naturale regionale del Bosco e Paludi di Rauccio. Located northeast of Lecce, this regional park is a fascinating combination of forest, marshland and coastline. The 17-hectare area features a variety of ecosystems, from dense oak forests to extensive wetlands. The park is famous for its rich avifauna and is an excellent place for bird watching. Note the distinctive defense tower, which adds to the historical charm of the place.

At the heart of the park is Masseria Rauccio, a 16th-century fortified agricultural complex that today serves as an educational center and information point. It's a great place to start a tour of the park and learn more about its history and ecological significance. Hiking and biking trails allow for exploration of a variety of habitats, while picnic spots encourage longer stays and relaxation in nature.

Also worth mentioning is the lesser-known but equally fascinating Bonifica dei Paduli degli Spunderati area. It's a place where you can admire the effects of long-term land reclamation works that transformed former marshland into fertile agricultural land, while preserving some of the natural ecosystems. The area is of particular interest to those interested in the history of landscape transformation and human impact on the environment.

All of these places offer not only an opportunity to get in touch with nature, but also provide vivid lessons in the ecology and history of the region. They are an excellent choice for families with children who want to combine active recreation with nature education. However, let's remember that when visiting these areas, we are guests in the home of many species of plants and animals. So let's keep it quiet, don't stray from the designated paths and don't leave any trash behind. Only in this way can we contribute to the preservation of these precious areas for future generations.

In the last part of our guide to the wildlife of the Lecce area, we would like to highlight some lesser-known but equally fascinating places that are true hidden gems of the Salento region.

One such place is Acquaviva, a picturesque cove located near Marina Serra. This place impresses not only with its crystal clear waters, but above all with a unique natural phenomenon - a cold fresh water spring that flows directly into the sea. Hence the name 'Acquaviva', meaning 'living water'. The place is not only a natural attraction, but also a geological curiosity. The narrow canyon leading to the cove makes a visit here a real adventure for the whole family. It's worth remembering to bring water shoes, as the bottom is rocky.

Another interesting place to visit is Parco Naturale di Torcito, located near the village of Cannole. This small park is an excellent example of the typical Mediterranean macchia vegetation of Salento. Here you can admire the region's characteristic olive trees, as well as a variety of herbs and shrubs. The park is an ideal place for quiet walks and picnics, as well as for observing local fauna, including many species of birds.

Also worth mentioning is the lesser-known but extremely valuable natural area of Bacino di Torre Pali. This is an extensive system of salt lakes and canals that provides important habitat for many species of waterfowl and migratory birds. The area is part of the larger natural complex Parco Naturale Regionale Litorale di Ugento. For lovers of ornithology, it is a true paradise, where flamingos, herons and many other rare species can be observed.

At the end of our trip, visit Bacino Serricella, a small reservoir located inland. This place, although less spectacular than the seaside attractions, has its own unique charm. It is especially beautiful at sunset, when the golden rays are reflected in the surface of the water. It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and contemplation of nature.

All these places, although less known and less frequently visited by tourists, are an important part of Salento's ecosystem. They offer the opportunity to discover a 'different face' of the region, away from the crowded beaches and popular attractions. They are an excellent choice for those who appreciate tranquility and direct contact with nature.

To sum up our journey through the wildlife of the Lecce area, it is worth noting the extraordinary biodiversity of the region. From coastal reserves to urban forests to hidden coves and salt lakes, each of these places has its own unique natural and scenic value. Visiting them is a chance not only to relax and unwind, but also to educate and raise environmental awareness.

However, we should remember that all these places require our respect and protection. As responsible tourists, we should always abide by the rules of parks and reserves, minimize our impact on the environment and support local conservation initiatives. Only in this way can we contribute to preserving these remarkable ecosystems for future generations.