Villa Annuccia

The villa

Villa Annuccia is a charming Mediterranean villa just a stone’s throw away from the sea nestled on the east coast in Italy’s Puglia region. Sitting in an expansive estate enveloped by almost two hectares of sprawling land and greenery, its ample size allows for complete relaxation while being ideally situated for exploring everything the rich region has to offer. Its modern exterior is effortlessly counterbalanced by rustic - simple interiors with bohemian flourishes throughout.

Spawning across two floors, Villa Annuccia can sleep up to 12 guests across six bedrooms, yet it provides an abundance of living space so that it never feels too crowded. Inside, guests have the chance to unwind on a series of sofas scattered around the living area and hallways, while chic French doors leading to the outside verandas provide additional breeze on hot afternoons. Each bedroom is lovingly designed in an Italian countryside - inspired style with valance beds inviting you for a snooze, rattan furniture and windows letting plenty of natural light in.

With an array of entrances and terrace doors, stepping into your private outdoor oasis is completely effortless. Follow the stone path to the large swimming pool for a refreshing dip or curl up in a hammock with a good book. For dinner, take advantage of one of the barbecues - there's plenty of space for alfresco suppers and moonlit aperitifs. With a large, shaded terrace, plenty of lounge furniture and sport facilities such as your own football pitch and tennis court, you’ll find it easy to spend the whole day outside.

Sip your morning coffee to the soundtrack of birds chirping from the estate’s manicured gardens full of aromatic lavender bushes and towering trees before heading out to explore. The town’s nearest beach spot Mancarella Lido is just a few moments’ walk from the main gate, with charming little restaurants and bars along the road inviting you for a negroni or a glass of Puglian rosé.

A main road takes you through local fields and forests to La Cesina Nature Reserve, Acaya Golf Club and Cesine beach all in under 15 minutes, ensuring every jet - setter will find an activity they’ll love.

History enthusiasts will love spending the day strolling around Lecce - a Baroque town only a 15 minutes’ drive away. Imbued with old - world Italian charm, it’s also known as the ‘Florence of the South’ because of its historic connections to ancient Greece and the Roman Empire.

The quaint town lies in Italy’s southern region of Puglia, known for traditional trulli houses, towns set above limestone cliffs and gnarly olive groves. Surrounded by other properties as well as restaurants and typical Italian cafés, its position makes it excellent for exploring renowned beaches, ancient towns and incredible cuisine nearby. Local seafood restaurants are virtually at your doorstep, but if you prefer to take a stroll after a filling dinner, head to Ponticello Lido near the marina and grab a typical Italian digestivo on the terrace while soaking up lush sea views.

San Cataldo belongs to one of Lecce’s many marines on the east coast, facing the Adriatic Sea and the traces of its ancient port structures can still be found all over the town, in the marble and granite columns for mooring boats and in some 19th century flourishes on its many docks and piers. The town’s main attraction is a long stretch of sandy beach surrounded by thick pine trees, making it popular with families and children as well as Lecce residents who come down to escape the blazing Puglia heat during summer months. In addition, a festival of bread takes place in the town’s streets during which visitors can enjoy culinary specialities of the Salento region such as focaccia - style baguettes mixed with tomatoes and onions.

Known for its Baroque architecture and Roman ruins, Lecce is a 15 minutes’ drive away, making it one of the most popular day trips in what’s almost the heel of Italy's boot. Stroll around its cobbled alleyways to soak up the ancient atmosphere and admire its historical centre. Worth climbing up to is the Basilica di Santa Croce, carved and sculpted in a wealth of flowers and animals, as well as the town’s many squares, domes and the ancient Roman amphitheatre. Here, you’re exposed to an array of delicious restaurants, bars and nightclubs when in need of a little hustle and bustle.

For those seeking a tranquil escape, the La Cesine natural park is a protected area extending for 380 hectares and featuring lush forests, wetlands and plenty of walking and hiking trails with picturesque views.

Very popular among tourists is also town - hopping. Thanks to the fast and comfortable train connecting local towns, you can hop on in Lecce and reach Brindisi, Monopoli and Bari all in under two hours. Stop at Polignano e Mare to catch ample sun rays at its famed Lama Monachile beach nestled at the bottom of limestone cliffs and bordered by a Roman bridge.