Grotta della Poesia
A breathtaking natural pool and cave system on Puglia's coast, famous for its turquoise waters and ancient legends.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Grotta della Poesia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking natural pool and cave system on Puglia's coast, famous for its turquoise waters and ancient legends.
"Beautiful place but such a pity you are not allowed to jump or swim."
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Swimming and jumping are prohibited. Respect the rules to preserve this natural wonder.
💰 Entry Fee & Parking
Expect a €3 entry fee per person and paid parking (€1.80/hour). Cash or card accepted for entry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Natural Pool
Main cave area
A breathtaking natural swimming pool with turquoise waters, framed by white limestone cliffs.
Cave Exploration
Tunnel to the sea
Discover a hidden tunnel leading from the pool to the open sea, offering a unique perspective.
Legendary Origins
Near the cave entrance
Learn about the legends of a beautiful princess whose presence inspired the cave's name.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Entry & Swimming Restrictions
Parking Hassles & Best Approach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Swimming and jumping are prohibited. Respect the rules to preserve this natural wonder.
💰 Entry Fee & Parking
Expect a €3 entry fee per person and paid parking (€1.80/hour). Cash or card accepted for entry.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be difficult. Try parking apps or arrive early to secure a spot.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The turquoise water and white cliffs are incredibly photogenic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Swimming and jumping are prohibited. Respect the rules to preserve this natural wonder.
💰 Entry Fee & Parking
Expect a €3 entry fee per person and paid parking (€1.80/hour). Cash or card accepted for entry.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be difficult. Try parking apps or arrive early to secure a spot.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The turquoise water and white cliffs are incredibly photogenic.
🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
Consider visiting nearby attractions like the Faraglioni di Sant'Andrea.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Grotta della Poesia is undeniably a beautiful natural wonder with stunning turquoise waters and unique cave formations. However, recent restrictions on swimming and jumping, coupled with entry and parking fees, have led to mixed reviews. While many still appreciate its scenic beauty, some feel the experience is diminished by the limitations.
"Beautiful place to visit and see.
No longer able to enter, jump or swim in the cave :-(
It's still worth a visit in my humble opinion.
There is a security guard sheltering under a rock watching to make sure you do not enter.
There were some locals lads jumping off the cliffs into the sea, rather them than me.
A cover charge of €3 didn't seem steep, although the carpark was a nightmare to pay for, couldn't get my card to be accepted or cash. I ended up on a parking app and paid €3 for 2 hrs instead of the official €3.60."
Jonn Sandon
"‼️something changed ‼️
we came back after years to visit this wonderful and magic place. Surprise: entrance fee 3€/Pp !! …we got in like in the early afternoon but then, going out at around 6pm, we saw local guys heading for free since the reception closed earlier than 7pm as per information panel🥲 - no matter what: we’ll always come back to see this breathtaking landscape. 🩷
Through this fee they should build a museum in this area very soon🩷"
Silvia Carretta
"Save yourself time and money and don’t visit this place. You can’t swim anywhere near or inside the pool. They will charge your for pretty much nothing 3EUR per person. Plus you need to pay for parking as well. You have way more beautiful cliff sides nearby! And it doesn’t even look good as in the pictures…"
Gábor Vass
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grotta della Poesia is located in Roca Vecchia, Puglia, Italy. It's easily reachable by car from Lecce and other parts of the Salento region. Parking is available nearby, though it can be challenging. 
While public transport options exist to reach Roca Vecchia, direct access to the Grotta della Poesia might require a short walk or taxi from the nearest bus stop. It's generally easier to reach by car.
Parking can be a significant challenge. Official parking lots charge around €1.80 per hour. Some visitors have reported issues with payment systems and suggest using parking apps or arriving very early.
Yes, the Faraglioni di Sant'Andrea are just a short drive away and are worth visiting for their stunning rock formations and beaches.
The closest major city is Lecce, which is about a 30-40 minute drive from Grotta della Poesia.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entry fee of €3 per person. This fee helps maintain the site. +1
Unfortunately, swimming and jumping in the Grotta della Poesia are no longer permitted due to over-tourism. Security guards are present to enforce this rule. +1
Opening hours can vary, and the reception area may close earlier than indicated on information panels, especially in the late afternoon. It's advisable to check locally or arrive earlier in the day.
Advance booking is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check for any updates or special advisories, especially during peak season.
Yes, there is a separate parking fee, typically around €1.80 per hour. Payment methods can sometimes be tricky, so be prepared. +1
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds. The turquoise water and white cliffs are stunning in the golden hour.
The cave is said to be named after a beautiful princess who loved to bathe in its waters, her beauty inspiring poets and legends.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be navigating rocky terrain. Bring swimwear if you plan to visit nearby beaches, but not for the cave itself.
While children can appreciate the natural beauty, the lack of swimming and the rocky environment might make it less engaging for very young children. Supervision is essential.
The water is known for its clear, turquoise color, fed by the Adriatic Sea. It's typically warm and inviting, though swimming is no longer allowed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you're traveling with kids, focus on the visual aspect and the legends. Pack snacks and water, as amenities might be limited. Nearby beaches or other more interactive attractions might be better suited for a full day of family fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize value, combine your visit with exploring free natural attractions nearby or pack your own food and drinks. Arriving early can sometimes help avoid peak parking fees or potential closures of the ticket booth later in the day.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for early morning or late afternoon visits to capture the best light and avoid crowds. The tunnel leading to the sea offers unique angles. Be mindful of the slippery surfaces and respect any restricted areas while composing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Cave of Poetry
+1Another theory suggests the name comes from a nearby freshwater spring, with 'posia' being the Greek word for 'poetry.' Regardless of the exact origin, the name perfectly encapsulates the awe-inspiring beauty and serene atmosphere of this unique location. Visitors often feel a sense of wonder and inspiration when exploring its depths.
Navigating the Visitor Experience
Parking is another aspect that requires planning. The official parking lots can be congested, and payment systems have sometimes been problematic. Visitors are advised to consider using parking apps or arriving very early in the day to avoid frustration. Despite these logistical challenges, many still find the breathtaking scenery and the unique geological formations of the cave worth the visit.
Exploring the Adriatic Coastline
+1While swimming in the cave is no longer allowed, the surrounding area offers opportunities to enjoy the coastal beauty. Nearby attractions like the Faraglioni di Sant'Andrea, with their impressive sea stacks, provide alternative spots for exploration and enjoying the Mediterranean landscape. The clear, turquoise waters are a consistent highlight for visitors, even if direct interaction is limited.
+1
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