We had booked a hotel in Lecce Old Town, but at the last minute this hotel popped up and we thought we'd give it a go, not knowing what we would find. We were picked up from Brindisi station and driven to the hotel, which is about 10 or so kms from Lecce town centre. We arrived at the property and when the big old wooden doors opened, it was like entering paradise! This place is magnificent! It has been restored beautifully by the Australian owner Rob about ten years ago. It was originally an old farm house from the 1500's, complete with its own little chapel dating back to the 1200's with original frescos on the walls. Rob obviously has a real flare for design and has decorated this place like something out of a Vogue magazine! Every detail is interesting, right down to the orange thongs that are your pool and room slippers. The white towels are embroided with beautiful signature orange edging. The Aesop bathroom products are divine! The huge beds are all bespoke made with incredibly comfortable mattresses. This hotel is so unique and so interesting. There are even outdoor baths where you can take a bath under a lemon tree! We stayed three days and we ended up eating every meal here as the food was the best I have had in Italy. It is like home cooking, with a set 4 course menu every night. It is so casual and relaxing that you can actually eat your breakfast, lunch and dinner whenever you want to! I didn't believe it, but it is true. Someone is there just waiting to cook for you! This hotel has 9 suites and feels so peaceful. The grounds, with a huge swimming pool, are so tranquil, full of beautiful orange and lemon trees, cactus, lawns and meandering pathways to lead you into different parts of the property. I had a feeling of peace here and I wanted it to last forever. We hired a car and could easily drive to all the great areas of Puglia that we wanted to see. There is plenty of parking here at this hotel and it is free. I can't stop thinking about this hotel and can't wait to go back!
翻譯