Sat right on that stiletto tip of Italy, overseeing the crashing of the Adriatic and Ionian, Santa Maria di Leuca is a place that instantly feels important. The Romans called it the place at the end of the earth, and it remained a pilgrimage spot throughout its history. It also has a collection of gorgeous art nouveau waterside villas, pretty harbour and typically wonderful old town, which explains much of its draw as a sea and sun destination over the years.

Of course there’s an enviable collection of beaches to sink into; Felloniche, Posto Vecchio, Torre Vado and Pescoluse are excellent for families and well-equipped with lidos, bars, and places to eat. Further along the coastline gets more and more craggy, sheltering hidden sea grottoes for which this part of the coast is so renowned. The best way to see them is by boat, so head back to the harbour where there’s plenty of sailors ready to take you to sea.