A twenty-five-minute drive from the historic town of Gallipoli, this villa offers an idyllic country escape in Italy’s deep south. Privacy is the watchword, with acres of land between you and anyone else and olive groves shading the garden. A rectangle of turquoise swimming pool sits in a sunny spot, inviting you to take the plunge in the heat of the day. Outdoor dining is under the pergola, so lunch alfresco is an option even when the sun is high in the sky. Inside, tiled floors are cooling underfoot and the open-plan concept keeps everything airy. A grand old hearth and exposed stone walls give a sense of the region’s history and the kitchen retains a rustic if retro charm with mosaic tiles and jolly blue cabinets.