These two historic villas sit side-by-side in the peace and quiet of Puglia’s countryside. You’re surrounded by olive groves and fields, yet the buzzing city of Lecce – with its narrow streets and endless restaurants to choose from – is just a seven-kilometre drive away. For days at the beach, the sandy coast of southern Italy is fifteen kilometres away. Both villas are connected by the sprawling outdoor space where stone patios are shaded by pergolas and a huge, rectangular swimming pool is lined with loungers. There’s a sense of privacy too, with towering palms, fruit trees and Mediterranean shrubs fringing the garden. There’s no denying the old-world feel of the grounds, with an ancient well on the terrace. Stepping inside, the sense of Puglia’s past continues with vast, barrel-vaulted living areas kept naturally cool by thick stone walls. Both dine-in kitchens are a look back at yesteryear – dried wheat and flowers suspended from the ceiling and big, arched windows like the coach houses of old. Bedrooms feature antique beds with twisting wrought-iron or rich oak headboards and some of the ensuites boast stone sinks. Feel like a king in his keep by choosing the mezzanine bedroom with the honey-stoned vaulted ceiling.

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Additional fees

• If you'll be arriving after 8pm, you'll be charged a late arrival fee of €50

• Your host can arrange extra mid-week cleaning services for you here – it'll cost extra

Additional fees subject to a 3.5% handling charge.