Villa Luola is an expansive home which can comfortably accommodate 12 guests, making it a fantastic choice for those wishing to get to know the charms and culture of Puglia, in Italy’s heel.
Whether you are drawn to Puglia for its picturesque towns and cities or you would like to spend your days hiking through the nearby hills and nature reserves, there is something here for everyone, not forgetting the delicious local cuisine! The home is set 17km inland, within a rural, olive-growing area which is sandwiched between the city of Ostuni and the town of Ceglie Messapica. This is a wonderful setting for exploring the vibrant streets of the towns as well as unwinding in the countryside.
Puglia is the perfect choice for nature-lovers who can traverse the landscape and trails on hikes, calming walks, by mountain bike or on horseback. A quiet, scenic area you can visit for the day is the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve which is 34km away by car. Here you can follow woodland walking routes and paths along the rugged coastline, plus swim and snorkel on pristine, wild beaches.
There are plenty more beaches on the coastline between Bari and Brindisi, ranging from serviced beach clubs to tiny swimming coves. The closest beach to the home is Spiaggia di Lamaforca which is 16km away by car, this is a sandy beach, off the usual tourist trails, so is a great spot for a day of rest and relaxation. The popular beaches of Torre Santa Sabina and Costa Merlata are each around 18km away and offer all of the facilities you would need for a full day at the beach nearby.
In addition to having gorgeous beaches and atmospheric countryside close by, you also have numerous towns, cities and villages on your doorstep. The closest selection of amenities can be found in the staggering “white city” of Ostuni which is 6km away. Sitting on top of a hill and dazzling in the sun light, the white-washed buildings of Ostuni are a sight to behold. The winding streets of the city are packed with street side cafes, restaurants and artisan shops. The picture-postcard old town is the place to go for the most incredible views over the nearby hills and the sea.
There are also many historic attractions to see in Ostuni such as the ornate Gothic and Byzantine cathedral, built in the 1600s and the Arco Scoppa bridge connecting the cathedral to the Bishop’s Palace. There are also art galleries and a selection of museums here such as the Civic Museum and the Archaeological Museum. To see a different side to the city, why not take a guided walking tour or book on to a Puglian cookery class. Another lovely place to visit is Ceglie Messapica, a town which is 6km away. Here you will find busy markets, traditional Italian restaurants and the imposing Ducal Castle. The town is a great place to explore as it is an authentic Puglian town and not a tourist hot spot.
The Region
Puglia, located in the picturesque heel of Italy's boot-shaped peninsula, is a region that captivates visitors with its unique charm and rich cultural heritage. Boasting a diverse landscape of sun-soaked coastlines, rolling vineyards, and historic towns, Puglia offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty, architectural wonders, and vibrant traditions.
Please be aware that a number of nearby amenities - pharmacies, supermarkets, restaurants, for example - may be closed or have limited opening hours during low season.