Santa Maria di Leuca, Puglia
Stylish and contemporary villa with fabulous private pool in the Salento region, about as far south as you can get, southern Italy at its best.
Arrival day: Saturday Car hire: Recommended
Villa Carolina sits in the deep Salento – you cannot get much further south as Santa Maria di Leuca is just 3 kilometres away from where Italy comes to an end in the blue Ionian Sea. This is southern Italy at its best – a mixture of old and new, fields of olive trees, half painted towns and sun-baked countryside that amazingly produces a crop of wonderful fresh fruit and seasonally grown vegetables.
Villa Carolina boasts an elevated position with views across the land to the sea. This traditional shaped Salento house has been designed and furnished by its Italian owner who originates from Bologna – a city full of style and elegant design. The modern feel of the villa only enhances the property’s character contrasting perfectly with the surroundings.
The rectangular house is, of course, painted white and the gardens all around have been planted with indigenous bushes dotted between the old olive trees. The driveway leads up to the back of the building where there is ample parking and the front door takes you into the simply furnished but chic open/plan lounge and dining area. Light and dark polished wood and pale coloured floors sit very well with the whitewashed walls and off to the right you will find the modern kitchen full of stainless steel units ready to please the seasoned cook as well as the novice.
At the front of the lounge, there are large glass doors that open out on the stunning covered terrace that overlooks the pretty pool. Much time will be spent here in the shade chatting, dozing, admiring the view or enjoying a glass of cool local white wine. Comfy sofas with squashy cushions along with a great dining table are really all that is needed between refreshing dips in the very inviting pool.
Leading off the lounge are the three bedrooms – all with new and modern en-suite shower rooms. The simple furnishings along with the crisp white bed linen make for very stylish decor and Villa Carolina is perfect for 2 or 3 couples travelling together or, of course, families.
At the side of the house is a good-sized barbeque just waiting for some freshly caught fish and some seasonal vegetables to be thrown on to it for a delicious lunch or supper.
The location of Villa Carolina is fabulous with super views and the sea just a few minutes away. Should you wish to venture out there are some lovely villages and towns to visit plus some spectacular stretches of coastline to explore. We know you will enjoy this amazing property.
Note: The house is located along a lane which leads to the main coast road (SS275) and at certain times is audible from the villa.
Additional Information
Air conditioning in two bedrooms, ceiling fan in the third bedroom.
David Kingsman, London - July 2019
We had a great time. We met Giorgio the owner, who was a delight and very accommodating. Excellent holiday. Many thanks