Exploring the Wonders of Grotta Zinzulusa
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Grotta Zinzulusa, an enchanting cave system in Castro, Italy, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Grotta Zinzulusa, located in Castro, Italy, is a breathtaking natural attraction that enchants visitors with its stunning sea caves and rich geological history. A must-visit for adventurous tourists!
A brief summary to Grotta Zinzulusa
- Piazzale Zinzulusa, Castro, Province of Lecce, 73030, IT
- +390836943812
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your guided tours in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and slippery inside the cave.
- Bring a light jacket, as the temperature inside the cave can be significantly cooler than outside.
- Consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning rock formations and scenic views around the cave entrance.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Lecce, take the SS16 highway towards Maglie. After approximately 35 km, exit onto the SP366 towards Castro. Follow the signs for Castro town. Once you arrive in Castro, continue towards the coast, where you will find signs directing you to Grotta Zinzulusa. The cave is located at Piazzale Zinzulusa, 73030 Castro LE. There is a parking area nearby, where you can park for a small fee (around €1-€2 per hour).
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Public Transportation
From Lecce, you can take a train to Otranto. The train departs from Lecce train station and takes approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive at Otranto, you will need to take a local bus to Castro. Make sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time, as they may not run frequently. The bus ride from Otranto to Castro takes about 30 minutes. Once in Castro, follow the signs to Grotta Zinzulusa, which is about a 15-minute walk from the bus stop. Also, be prepared for a small entrance fee to the cave, usually around €5.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route, consider taking a taxi or using a rideshare service from Lecce or Otranto directly to Grotta Zinzulusa. The ride from Lecce takes about 45 minutes and may cost around €60-€80 depending on the time and demand. From Otranto, the taxi ride will take approximately 20 minutes and cost around €30.
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Biking
For the more adventurous, consider biking from Otranto to Castro. There are bike rental shops in Otranto. The route along the coast offers beautiful views and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your pace. Ensure you have a map or GPS, as some paths may not be well-marked. Once you reach Castro, follow the signs to Grotta Zinzulusa, which is about a 15-minute walk from the town center.
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