San Pietro in Bevagna: Manduria's Blue Flag beach, with white sand, dunes, the mouth of the river Chidro and the King's Sarcophagi. How to get there from Taranto.
History
San Pietro in Bevagna is Manduria's marina and one of the most beautiful, best-loved seaside spots on the Tarantine Ionian coast. It belongs to the "Lands of Sea and Sun" circuit and falls within the Tarantine Coast Regional Nature Reserve.
The beach, awarded the Blue Flag, is a very long sweep of fine white sand dipping into a crystal-clear, shallow sea, framed by splendid dunes cloaked in Mediterranean scrub.
What to see
The shoreline is long enough to offer both free stretches, where you can enjoy nature, and equipped establishments with every comfort. For snorkellers, a few metres from the shore lie the so-called "King's Sarcophagi", submerged Roman-era marble slabs.
A short way off, within the reserve, is a unique spot: the mouth of the river Chidro, where the river's icy fresh waters (18-20°C) mingle with the warm sea, creating a rare experience. Nearby, the Cuturi Wood offers trails immersed in nature.
Did you know…
- A few metres from the shore lie the 'King's Sarcophagi', submerged Roman marble slabs and a snorkelling destination.
- At the mouth of the Chidro, cold fresh water mingles with the warm sea.
- The beach holds the Blue Flag and sits within a nature reserve.
Practical information
| Hours | Free beaches always accessible. Lidos on seasonal hours. |
|---|---|
| Ticket | Free beaches at no cost. Lidos and establishments for a fee. |
| Accessibility | The establishments offer services; some free beaches are reached along paths through the scrub and dunes. |
| Getting there | From Taranto: about 45 km. By car towards Manduria and then the marina. Bus connections may run in summer. |
Tips for your visit
- Bring a snorkelling mask and look for the submerged King's Sarcophagi.
- Devote half a day to the Chidro mouth, a unique natural experience.
- Arrive early in high season: it's much loved and can get crowded.
- Pair the beach with a visit to Manduria's Messapian Walls Archaeological Park.