Masseria Camelia

A perfect place for an authentic Italian experience, this impressive family villa is secluded in six acre grounds, encircled with fencing and dry stone walls, and encompassing mature olive groves, and a vegetable garden. Oleanders line the driveway to the house, where a gated entry courtyard has a central fountain and arched cloisters, and a spacious outer courtyard, fully enclosed for privacy, focuses on an inviting infinity pool. Set in a stone paved sunbathing terrace which is hemmed with lawns and herb borders, the pool is overlooked by a large gazebo with shaded sitting and dining areas. An exterior staircase leads to the roof terrace, while, within the cool stone villa, stylishly furnished interiors include three double rooms with four-poster beds, a fourth children's bedroom and an open-plan kitchen, dining and sitting room in modern monochrome.

Shops and a great bakery can be found in Carpignano, and inexpensive informal family friendly restaurants can also be found in Carpignano and in and around other local villages. Many local villages host atmospheric food festivals and concerts. Beautiful sandy beaches including Alimini and Torre dell'Orso with beach clubs are within easy driving distance and surfing, kite surfing, SUP, kayaking can be enjoyed. Day trips on yachts can be enjoyed from Otranto during the season. Cycling is also very popular and bicycles (with guides if required) can also be hired. Salento, this area of southern Puglia is a unspoilt pocket of southern Europe dotted with beautiful towns, villages and superb restaurants. Interesting half day trips include visiting the picturesque old town and beaches of Otranto and Gallipoli and the magnificent baroque town and upmarket shopping of Lecce.