In brief

• Great choice for two families
• Very private, yet short drive to restaurants, beaches
• Prices for smaller groups

About the villa

With olive groves stretching as far as the eye can see, and clear-day views of the Albanian mountains from its roof terrace, Masseria Violetta enjoys a truly tranquil setting, though shops and restaurants in Cannole are just 2km away, and Martano and Otranto are both within easy reach. Built in pale stone, in the style of the region, the ‘U’ shaped house stands in a cloistered courtyard, with arched walkways accessing the rooms, a stone staircase to the roof, and a fountain burbling gently in the sun. Within the villa, high vaulted ceilings crown stylish rooms in minimalist monochrome, furnished with wrought iron, chrome and glass, and fitted with air conditioning, WiFi and modern appliances. Flooded with light from dual aspect doors to the terrace and olive grove, the base of the ‘U’ is an open-plan arrangement of kitchen with breakfast bar, a very contemporary dining area and striking sitting room. There are two double bedrooms in one of the wings and, in the other, a twin room and the master suite opening to the pool terrace with its impressive bathroom. Al fresco living focuses on a night-lit swimming pool, set in a walled and paved terrace, with a dining pergola, barbecue, fridge and food prep area.

Shops and a great bakery can be found in Carpignano, and inexpensive 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