THE CITY
LECCE - THE BAROQUE JEWEL
Lecce, known as the baroque capital of Salento, is a city in the southern Italian region of Puglia, that boasts a rich history and stunning architectural beauty. Simply by walking through the charming streets of Lecce, visitors are transported back in time as they marvel at the intricate baroque buildings adorned with ornate carvings and decorative details. The city's golden limestone, known as ‘pietra leccese’, gives a warm and radiant glow to its buildings - whose hue changes from sunrise to sunset. Lecce's sophisticated culture, uniquely local cuisine, and romantic atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the authentic southern Italian lifestyle and taste the magic of Italian art and history.
Be sure to experience the natural ‘light show’ at different points of the day. At sunset (before or after aperitivo hour), take a stroll in the centro storico and watch the local Leccese stone change its honey-hue against the pastel-tinged sky. As the locals venture out for their nightly passeggiata (an evening ritual that literally means to parade the main thoroughfare of town, with or without a gelato) you’ll understand why it’s the most enchanting time of day.
Immerse yourself and be seduced by Lecce’s beauty. Nowhere else does the concept of La Dolce Vita (the ‘Good Life’) and the Slow Living philosophy come together so effortlessly than in Lecce. As the gateway to the Salento, it’s the perfect place to base yourself and explore this truly spectacular region.
the neighbourhood
SAN LAZZARO - experience the real lecce
Delve deeper into Lecce's neighbourhoods, and experience the warmth of southern Italian culture, its spirit and hospitality of its people. Enjoy the authentic local lifestyle by staying in this charming tree-lined quarter, just a 10 minute walk from the historic heart of Lecce.
Centred around the 18th century church of San Lazzaro, the neighbourhood has a charming mix of family palazzi and secluded garden villas that grew in the 1920s as the address for well heeled locals.
With its sun-kissed piazza and tranquil streets you can discover authentic products and quality local ingredients in its quaint stores. Here you’ll find bakeries, patisseries, coffee shops, local markets and fine delicatessens - the neighbourhood has everything you need to have you living la dolce vita and feeling like a local.
Conveniently located, it’s the perfect base to stay to explore the stunning beaches and charming towns nearby. A handy position to get in and out of Lecce and experience the essence of the Salento.
THE REGION
SALENTO - THE SUN, THE SEA, THE WIND
The apartment is strategically located and serves as your gateway to explore the charm of the surrounding Salento region. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of local customs, ancient traditions, its friendly people and diverse food and wine.
Italy’s most beautiful beaches are at your fingertips. The ‘heel’ of Italy is bound by the Adriatic on one side and the Tyrrhenian sea on the other - and the region’s stunning beaches are only a 25/30 minute car ride away . There is something for everybody - from wide sandy beaches to breathtaking rocky grottos, serviced lido beaches with bars and restaurants to more tranquil and secluded coves and nature reserves.
Embrace the Salento lifestyle and its slow living pace of life. Enjoy a long leisurely lunch at a nearby ‘masseria’ - a fortified farmhouse traditionally from the 16th century that dot the local landscape, many with a 0km slow food philosophy.
Get off the beaten track and you will be seduced by the region’s hidden treasures. There are many alluring towns in the Salento to discover, where time has seemingly stood still for centuries. Just wandering around the historic centre of these villages and towns provides so much beauty to take in. Start at siesta time (after lunch) when the villages are literally ghost towns, and watch them gently come alive at aperitivo hour at sunset.
Loose yourself in its natural beauty and let the magic of the Salento wash over you and captivate your senses.