Essential Italy

Many old trulli have been converted but few to the standard of Lalapanzi. The English owners have ensured that this trullo maintains many of the local features and yet incorporates a contemporary feel and modern comforts. The addition of the beautiful pool makes this outstanding property a benchmark for quality accommodation in Puglia.

The house is made up of three separate buildings, one housing the living room and kitchen and the other two the sumptuous bedrooms. In the main house entry is into either the living room, complete with dining alcove and wood burning stove, or small but well equipped kitchen with dishwasher, washing machine, fridge / freezer, hobs and oven. There is a lovely outdoor eating space equipped with a wonderful stone table and barbeque, and the pool is just a few metres from the house. Lalapanzi is located along a bumpy country track and is on the brow of a small hill with views over the surrounding countryside – should you wish to take-in more scenery – open external steps lead you onto the roof, complete with traditional conical roofs (not advisable for children!).

‘The villa was beautiful. The pool area is very well done and the whole villa offers a very high standard of accommodation. Very tastefuly decorated and would highly recommend it.

We have completed your questionnaire as requested but felt that we should make a special mention of Chris, the local representative. He was very, very helpful on all local matters from parking tickets to restaurants and kept us very up to date with all the changes with the flights and hand luggage etc. He was extremely friendly and a great asset to your company.’

Lee & Philippa Ferridge, Kent, UK

The three double / twin bedrooms are located in the two trulli just metres from the main house, the owners have ensured that the design and decor is of the highest quality. Each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with shower and has independent access to the gardens. The larger trullo has a separate living area with two sofa beds, perfect for children during high season. (*We are unable to offer Lalapanzi to parties of 8 out of high season due to limited internal dining space.)

The beautiful pool has been constructed from local Puglian stone with India sandstone terracing ensuring it blends in with the natural surroundings (it’ll encourage you to practise your tumble-turns and get in 50 lengths before breakfast). The gardens have been sympathetically landscaped to make the most of the natural, rugged Puglia countryside.

As tempting as it will be to stay put at Lalapanzi the wide selection of superb local restaurants is sure to tempt you out in the evening to enjoy the fresh local cuisine and wonderful wines. Its position is ideal for exploring this fascinating area – the villages of Locorotondo, Cisternino, Ostuni, Alberobello and Martina Franca are all just a short drive away, and the coast, with its sandy and rocky beaches is less than 30 minutes away. Further afield the stunning Baroque town of Lecce, known as the ‘Florence of the South’, and Taranto ensure that you will have no problem planning those day trips.

The owners have lived in Zimbabwe, this influence is reflected in some of the decor... and Lalapanzi is a Zimbabwean word meaning ‘sleep well down there’ – very apt for this lovely house.