Masseria Le Mesolecchie, Crispiano, Italy

Set in unspoiled countryside, surrounded by olive groves, this traditional villa for 8 is the ideal choice for a family holiday or get-together. With a private pool and outdoor jacuzzi, guests are guaranteed a relaxing break.

The villa is full of rustic charm. The owners have retained an authentic atmosphere, with antique pieces and simple fittings. The building has been divided into 2 apartments, each with its own kitchen. This allows families or groups some privacy and independence, whilst they are holidaying together. The rooms have the original vaulted ceilings and cool tiled floors. Both kitchen/diners are equipped with an induction hob, oven, fridge/freezer and coffee machine, as well as tables for relaxed meals. One open-plan living space includes a sofa, next to the dining table.

The outdoor spaces are as important as the interiors. There is a sunny terrace with sun loungers and an outdoor jacuzzi.

Sleeping
Bedroom 1: On the first floor, this vaulted bedroom is furnished with a King-size double bed, a single bed, a flat-screen TV and wardrobe. It also has its own private terrace.
Bedroom 2: This ground-floor bedroom has a king-size double bed, a single bed, antique wardrobe and an en suite bathroom.
Extra: There are a king-size double bed, plus a wardrobe in the open-plan living space. This room also has an en suite bathroom.

Bathrooms
Both en suite bathrooms are equipped with a shower, basin, bidet and WC.

Additional
• Free wifi (portable device) • Unheated, outdoor pool (open 1st June – 30th September) • Outdoor jacuzzi • Outside dining • BBQ • Terrace • Air conditioning • Child-friendly • Unsuitable for elderly guests • Hair dryer • CO detector • Fire extinguishers • Smart TV • Private parking for 4 cars - car essential • Pets allowed • Check-in from 4.00pm to 10.00pm, check out before 10.00am

Location
The villa is in a very quiet, sunny position, just a 5-minute drive from the small town of Crispiano. It is known as the “Citta delle Cente Masserie” as the area around the town is dotted with old, traditional farm buildings. The town hosts the Carnevale Estivo (summer carnival) in mid-July. The place is alive with floats, music, games, masked groups and festivals based around local food products. Foodies will also enjoy the Mercato della Terra (Earth Market) which takes place in San Simone (10 minutes) on the second Sunday of each month and celebrates the slow food movement.

One of the closest towns is Martina Franca (25 minutes), which is a stunning combination of simple whitewashed local houses, palaces and magnificent Baroque architecture. The town Alberobello (40 minutes) looks like something from a fairytale. It is a town of trulli and slow food restaurants, as well as being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

More sporty guests should head to Val d’Itria cycle route. This runs the length of the valley along the route of an ancient aqueduct. Local tours can be arranged for a day exploring the countryside.

For guests keen to get to the coast, some of the nicest beaches are to the west of the industrial port of Taranto.

The closest airport is at Bari, a 1 hour 25-minute drive from the house.