A utopian urban escape
Hidden behind the ancient palazzo walls of Lecce, in the heart of Salento, within the romantic region of Puglia, Italy, San Vito invites you in to an enchanting world where ancient architecture meets contemporary comfort.
Whatever comes to mind, when considering your great Italian escape, it’s likely that San Vito will amplify those visions, and reimagine your trip to Puglia, entirely. With the baroque town of Lecce nearby, you’ll have a montage of historical architecture and rich cultural explorations occupying the bulk of the itinerary.
The dreamy landscapes of Salento all within grasp. Framing the mind’s photographs, with the blue of the seas, the vanilla of the sands, and the green and gold of the rolling hills of the countryside. This historical hideaway in Southern Italy will earnestly redefine your holiday, with sincerity. It’s perfectly positioned, well-versed on the art of seduction, and layered in all of the essentials when it comes to contemporary luxury accommodation.
The owner’s esteem for Puglia, and the intricate heirlooms of ancient Italian architecture inspired the gentle renovation of San Vito. Under the ardent hands of Valari Architects, the 1850’s palazzo has been brought back to life with vigour and authenticity. Beautiful bold arches and angular divisions mark the past with the present. The exposure of the original stone and brick works, the use of natural materials, coupled with a contemporary layout, allows the light of the outside to energetically flow through the interiors. Where the living, dining, cooking, reading, reclining and entertaining spaces harmoniously blend with one another.
Comprising of four bedrooms, positioned in each of the four corners of the property, with the main ensuite offering a private patio and outdoor shower, there’s ample space to accommodate as many as eight. It’s ideal for a group of friends, gallivanting the Italian map like discerned travellers. Eager to sample every ounce of la dolce vita.
The palazzo is privately tucked behind the old walls of the town, within walking distance to all of the attractions. Immersed in the essence of village life, with the grocery stores, quaint cafés and eateries around the corner. The positioning of the property makes it perfect for exploring either side of the southern coastline. The nearby towns of Galatina and Tricase Porto are great for diving into an authentic life of a local. The rolling hills and charming villages of Valle d’Itria. The crystal-clear waters and soft sands of Santa Caterina and Sant’Isidoro beaches. All that’s on the wish list, is within reach.
Culture, nature and heritage
That’s what’s so wonderful about this spot in Puglia. You can feel the real Italian vibe of the villages around you, and explore those signature sights that your great escape depicts. And you can also rest amongst the inspiration that presides at San Vito. Spending time together, around the dining tables, savouring the breakfast baskets in the mornings, and the cocktails around the bar in the evenings. Soaking up the luxury in your suites, admiring the intricate details of every interior space that’s been curated with care. You can try your hands at some authentic Apulian cooking classes, chaperoned by a private chef, should you want to discover the secrets of traditional recipes.
You’ll most certainly spend a number of hours around the swimming pool, on the loungers, shaded by the orange trees. Barbecues and long spreads of all the treats that you sourced in town. Fancy some holiday fitness? Bring in the personal trainer for a couple of sessions or enjoy a massage either indoors, or in the garden. All of the little extras can be arranged with the property manager during your stay. There will always be enough hours in the day, to do as little and as much as you choose. Living il sogno italiano.
What we love!
- Spending time in the garden, dipping in and out of the stone swimming pool, then resting on the loungers in the warm European sunshine.
- Admiring the preservation of all the historical elements to the home. How beautifully the spaces have been nurtured back to life.
- Grabbing one of the yoga mats that are provided, heading out into the garden and working up an appetite for a breakfast basket.. You could also have a massage organised – upon request. It’s perfectly private to enjoy some meditative moments, in between all of the adventuring.
- The location is great! No matter what’s on the itinerary for the day, there are so many wonderful routes to take, and sightseeing attractions to enjoy, that are only a brief drive away from the property.
What you need to know…
- The property rests just five minutes away from the baroque city of Lecce and only a 25-minute drive from the beaches of Salento. San Vito is perfectly positioned between the Adriatic and Ionic seas. The property manager will advise on all of the best beaches to visit, from Santa Caterina, to Campomarino – where the laidback beach bar vibes with great seafood servings can be enjoyed at Lido posto 9.
- There are lots of lovely places to explore, during your Southern Italian escape. Head to Quanto Basta in Lecce for an aperitivo or Pasticceria Natale for ice cream.
- The small village if Galatina is only a 15-minute drive away where you can enjoy the quieter parts of the coastline, experiencing the true Apulian lifestyle. Head to Pasticceria Ascalone for a pasticciotto, and visit Staglio for some fresh bread or focaccia.
- If you fancy a day-trip driving south towards Tricase Porto, cruise along the scenic route from Otranto to Tricase Porto. Stop for lunch or dinner at Taverna del Porto or Allo Scoglio.
- If San Vito is not available on your dates, browse our full collection of exclusive-use holiday houses in Puglia.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie