This seaside gem along Italy's Adriatic coast is small but also surrounded by salt marshes and fascinating historical sites.

A golden moon hangs over a serpentine, aquatic landscape. A liminal blend of salt and fresh water on the edge of the Adriatic Sea, the Venetian lagoon exudes an uncanny, ancient stillness.

The World Wildlife Fund calls the Mar Menor Europe’s largest salt-water lagoon. It’s home to several species of fish, seahorses and the endangered European eel. The lagoon, which covers 135 square ...