Top 11 Lakes around Melendugno
Best lakes around Melendugno are found in a region primarily known for its Adriatic coastline, characterized by beaches, sea stacks, and clear waters. While prominent lakes within Melendugno itself are not a primary feature, the Alimini Lakes are a notable example of freshwater bodies near the Salento coast. The area offers diverse natural attractions, including coastal features and significant wetlands.
Best lakes around Melendugno
- The most popular lakes is Mouth of the Alimini Lakes, a lake where the Alimini Lakes reach the sea. Alimini Grande is a brackish lagoon, while Alimini Piccolo is fed by underground springs, providing fresh water.
- Another must-see spot is Le Cesine Nature Reserve, a natural monument and wetland area. This reserve covers over 350 hectares of marshes and wetlands, serving as an important stop for migratory water birds.
- Visitors also love Panoramic viewpoint overlooking Alimini Grande, a viewpoint offering views of the "big" Alimini lake. This lake extends for about 2.5 km and is surrounded by pine forests and Mediterranean scrub.
- Melendugno is known for brackish lagoons, freshwater lakes, and extensive wetland areas. These diverse aquatic environments support various plant and animal species, including migratory birds.
- The lakes around Melendugno are appreciated by the komoot community, with 96 upvotes and 19 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Le Cesine Nature Reserve
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Mouth of the Alimini Lakes
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Panoramic viewpoint overlooking Alimini Grande
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Torre Sant'Andrea Rock Formations
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La Ritunda Lake Viewpoint
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Tips from the Community
If you'd like to reach the viewpoint by bike, I recommend taking the path that runs parallel to the lake. The path perpendicular to the lake is not suitable for road bikes or regular bicycles.
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Natural landing place with lake view. Also reachable on foot from the nearby SP151
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Beautiful natural landing place to enjoy the view of Alimini Grande. The duck is always there
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The Le Cesine Nature Reserve and WWF Oasis is the last stretch of coastal marshes that once characterized the Salento coast.
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The main avenue leads through Le Cesine and descent into the reserve is only allowed with an authorized guide. The escapade into the interior lasts about 2 hours.
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Le Cesine is a nature reserve covering an area of 348 hectares. It was built on part of former swampy and marshy freshwater areas stretching from Brindisi in the north to Otranto in the south. There are many plants growing in the reserve, located on the so-called red list, which includes rare and endangered species. The world of fauna is also impressive, with the spring magic of the flight of thousands of colorful butterflies (including Macroglossum stellatarum, which closely resembles a hummingbird!) and the singing of amphibians on late winter nights (the croaking of a small Hyla intermedia frog, about 4 cm long, can be heard even several kilometers away!) .
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The oasis is protected by the WWF and covers over 350 hectares of marshes and wetlands. The type of habitat makes it an ideal place for many species of migratory water birds to stop. Other animals also reside, including reptiles and amphibians, and wolves and wild boars have recently been reintroduced.
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Plenty of space for very few cyclists
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most notable lakes and natural areas around Melendugno?
While Melendugno is primarily known for its coastline, the most notable freshwater bodies are the Alimini Lakes. Key natural areas include the Mouth of the Alimini Lakes, where the lakes meet the sea, and the Le Cesine Nature Reserve, a significant wetland for migratory birds.
Are there family-friendly spots among the lakes and natural reserves?
Yes, several spots are family-friendly. The Mouth of the Alimini Lakes features a beach and is suitable for families. Additionally, viewpoints like Panoramic viewpoint overlooking Alimini Grande and La Ritunda Lake Viewpoint offer peaceful settings for all ages.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the Alimini Lakes?
The Alimini Lakes area boasts diverse natural features. You'll find brackish lagoons like Alimini Grande and freshwater lakes like Alimini Piccolo, connected by a channel. The surroundings are characterized by thick pine forests and Mediterranean scrub, providing habitat for various migratory birds and rare plant species. Coastal features like the dramatic Torre Sant'Andrea Rock Formations are also nearby.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Melendugno?
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can explore hiking trails, such as the easy 'Sant'Andrea Sea Stacks – The Two Sisters loop from Faro di Torre Sant'Andrea di Missipezza'. Road cycling routes like 'Mouth of the Alimini Lakes – Otranto loop from Melendugno' are also popular. For more options, check out the guides for Hiking around Melendugno, Road Cycling Routes around Melendugno, and Running Trails around Melendugno.
Are there opportunities for swimming in or near the lakes?
The Mouth of the Alimini Lakes offers a very nice beach with good lidos, making it suitable for swimming. However, some coastal areas like Torre Sant'Andrea Rock Formations are less suitable for swimming due to their rocky nature, though they are beautiful for viewing.
Can I observe wildlife, especially birds, in these areas?
Yes, the lakes and wetlands are significant for wildlife. The Le Cesine Nature Reserve is an important stop for migratory water birds. The Alimini Lakes area also provides shelter for various migratory species like the white stork, flamingo, crane, and other water birds such as the mallard and moorhen.
What is the difference between Alimini Grande and Alimini Piccolo?
Alimini Grande, the larger lake, is a brackish lagoon formed by sea erosion. Alimini Piccolo, the smaller lake, is fed by underground springs, making its water fresh. They are connected by a narrow channel called Lu Strittu.
Are there guided tours available for any of the natural reserves?
Yes, for the Le Cesine Nature Reserve, descent into the interior is only allowed with an authorized guide. These guided escapades typically last about 2 hours, offering insights into the protected marsh and wetland ecosystem.
What makes the viewpoints around Alimini Grande special?
Viewpoints like Panoramic viewpoint overlooking Alimini Grande and La Ritunda Lake Viewpoint offer serene spots to admire the 'big' Alimini lake, which extends for about 2.5 km. They provide peaceful settings surrounded by pine forests and Mediterranean scrub, ideal for quiet contemplation and enjoying the scenery.
Are there any easy hiking trails near the lakes?
Yes, there are easy hiking options. For instance, the 'Sant'Andrea Sea Stacks – The Two Sisters loop from Faro di Torre Sant'Andrea di Missipezza' is an easy 6.3 km hike. You can find more details and other routes in the Hiking around Melendugno guide.
What do visitors appreciate most about the lakes and natural areas near Melendugno?
Visitors highly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility. The diverse aquatic environments, from brackish lagoons to freshwater springs, and the rich biodiversity, especially migratory birds, are frequently mentioned. The peaceful viewpoints and the unique connection of the Alimini Lakes to the sea are also popular highlights.
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