Villa Castellucio was painstakingly renovated from a traditional Lamia, which was a ruin when its new owners first saw it. Today the historic atmosphere remains, and the authentic styling of the main house and studio has given this perfect hideaway a charming ambience, all of which has been overseen by the owner’s friend and designer, Andrew Trotter.
How many guests can Villa Castellucio accommodate? It comfortably sleeps six and the layout is open-plan, airy and light.
Not unlike South Africa’s Karoo houses, deep reed-covered terraces and shutters shade the interiors from the heat of the day but become social spaces as soon as the sun begins to dip on the horizon. Evenings are balmy here – eating alfresco, listening to the sounds of the garden, watching as the stars begin to sparkle.
Taking time to relax as the earth cools and a gentle breeze billows the curtains. Curved, Greek-style ceilings feature open shelving simply styled… and natural woods do the rest. Life here is uncomplicated, as it was years ago – unchanged and wonderfully calming.
Villa Castellucio is part of the Moroseta Homes portfolio with its architectural design ethos inspired by the original six-bedroomed ‘mother farmhouse’, Masseria Moroseta, the first renovation project completed by Trotter. Today there are nine properties, mostly within 15 minutes of each other and each one benefits from the amazing services the Moroseta team offer. You can have seasonal breakfast, lunch or dinner dishes delivered or ask them to send over their expert pizzaiolo to show you how real Italian-style pizzas are made. Add to this list convenient grocery box deliveries, massage therapists and yoga sessions or even a personal trainer – nothing is too much trouble for this team.
Charming country living all year round
When is the best time to experience this self-catering farm accommodation? Air conditioning and central heating allow for out-of-season road trips in the area when little villages are quieter.
Wondering how you will spend your time at this unique holiday home? Villa Castellucio invites you to experience Italian country living to the fullest. Leave laptops at home and enjoy the Italian country detox to the fullest … pack beach picnics or visit richly historic Lecce and wander its ancient streets and piazza’s.
Food lovers should book the legendary dinner experience at the Masseria, curated by bold young Chef Georgia Eugenia Goggi, who came to work here one summer and never left. Her creative daily menu is inspired by what is freshly picked in her veggie garden (and take it from us that their vegetarian dishes are out of this world…). Moroseta guests get preference, but we suggest you plan your holiday with us around your dinner date as everyone’s flocking to food-obsessed Puglia and it’s booked far ahead.
Reviewed by Michelle Snaddon
Edited by Dawn Kennedy