Villanova: Beaches, Marina and History

Villanova is a maritime town on the Adriatic coast. Three aspects of the destination can help guide your hotel search: its beaches, with their mix of sandy coves and cliffs; its marina; and historic sites in the town and surrounding area. The coast shapes its character, but maritime activities and local cuisine are also part of a stay here. When planning your trip, you can weigh up whether you’re choosing Villanova mainly for the coast, for activities on the water, or for its history.

Beaches, Harbor and Coastal Access

Villanova’s beaches have clear water, with small sandy coves alternating with cliffs. This variety shapes the coastline and sets it apart from a stretch of beach that is uniform throughout. At some beaches, walkways and ramps make access easier for people with reduced mobility. Facilities can vary by beach and season, so check the conditions at your chosen beach before visiting. There are public parking lots near the marina and beaches, including parking spaces for people with disabilities. Villanova is also known for its distinctive marina, which is also the starting point for an available boat trip.

Boat Trips and Sailing

At Porto di Villanova, Marco Carani Nautica offers boat rentals. The Grotta Azzurra boat trip departs from the marina at Villanova di Ostuni and includes a swimming stop at Gorgognolo, with the opportunity to swim and snorkel. The tour itinerary and availability may change; check the details before making plans. Marco Carani Nautica also offers trips accompanied by experienced skippers to explore Polignano a Mare, Monopoli and the coast of Ostuni. These trips focus on different things from the Grotta Azzurra excursion: they center on the coastal destinations mentioned, while the Grotta Azzurra trip includes a swimming stop at Gorgognolo. The Lega Navale Italiana’s nautical center in Villanova di Ostuni offers sailing courses and also has a sport fishing group. The town therefore offers a range of maritime activities, from boat rentals and accompanied trips to sailing courses.

Castle, Church and Petrolla

Castello di Villanova stands at one end of Villanova’s pier. The Aragonese incorporated it into a coastal defense system of fortified towers that communicated with one another. Its location on the pier and its recorded role in the defense system give the building a clear connection to the town’s maritime history. The church of Madonna della Croce also connects a specific place with an older history: it was built in 1898 over an earlier place of worship. Near Villanova, Petrolla is home to the archaeological remains of an ancient settlement. The site is protected as an archaeological site of landscape interest; the remains include parts of the settlement wall. Together, these places reveal different traces of history, from a coastal fortification to an ancient settlement.

Getting There and Local Cuisine

Villanova can be reached via the Strada Statale 379 (E55); the “Ostuni-Villanova” exit is recommended. Road conditions and signage may change, so it’s worth checking your current route before setting off. If you’re traveling by train, Ostuni station is about 7 km from Villanova; bus and taxi services connect it to the town. Bus routes also run between Villanova, the center of Ostuni and surrounding towns. Schedules are seasonal and subject to change. Check the connection before your trip if you plan to use public transportation. Local restaurants serve traditional cuisine featuring fresh fish; offerings may vary from one restaurant to another.

Discover more destinations: Ostuni, Specchia, Torchiarolo, Torre Santa Susanna, Casalini, Lido Specchiolla, Torre Canne, Ceglie Messapica.

For the broader travel overview: Brindisi.