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 Raffaella is an official partner of the Cammino: we welcome pilgrims with the official stamp for their credential and offer dedicated discounts to those who have purchased the Pilgrim Passport and book directly with us.
Why stop at Villa Raffaella
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
The discount is reserved for those who have purchased the Pilgrim Passport: along with the passport, the Cammino sends you the link to book directly with us with the discount already applied.
Rest with a sea view
Elegant rooms in a late 19th-century historic residence, many with a sea-view balcony or terrace, a short walk from the sulphur spas: the perfect reward after more than 20 km on foot.
A stop in a 19th-century residence
Villa Raffaella was built in the second half of the 19th century as the summer residence of Baroness Raffaella, designed by the Milanese architect Emilio Corti. In the entrance floor you can still read “DOMUS TUA HAEC”: this is your home.
You arrive from Otranto after about 22 km, drop your rucksack and rest in one of our 17 rooms, many with a sea view balcony or terrace. In the morning you have breakfast and set off towards Castro and Marina Serra.
The full route, the stages and the Pilgrim Passport are on the official Cammino del Salento website.
The pilgrim package
- Official Cammino del Salento stamp on your credential
- Discount reserved for Pilgrim Passport holders, already applied through the dedicated link
- 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
The discount only applies to guests who have purchased the Pilgrim Passport. After your purchase, the Cammino del Salento sends you a dedicated link: book through that link and the discount is already applied. Show your passport at check-in: without the passport the discount cannot be applied.
Check availabilityFrequently asked questions
Where is Villa Raffaella 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?
Purchase the Pilgrim Passport: along with the useful information, the Cammino del Salento sends you a dedicated link to book directly with us. When you open it the discount is already applied, with nothing to enter. If you book on our website without that link you will see the regular prices: if you can’t find it, write to us before booking. Show your passport at check-in: without the passport the discount cannot be applied. 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 buy the Pilgrim Passport and what is the Testimonium?
The Pilgrim Passport (the credential) can be purchased by contacting the Cammino del Salento through the official website camminodelsalento.it. After your purchase you receive the useful information, the list of partner accommodations and the link to book with the discount. Arriving in Leuca on foot with your stamps, you receive the Testimonium, the certificate of completion.
Your Cammino deserves a special stop
Book your night in Santa Cesarea Terme: official stamp, Pilgrim Passport discount and all of Villa Raffaella’s hospitality.
Book now WhatsApp +39 0836 949065Official information on the route and the credential: camminodelsalento.it