YOUR EXCLUSIVE RETREAT IN PUGLIA

THE AREA

A few miles down the coast, meanwhile, is the lovely seaside town of Monopoli, which is home to a vibrant street market, a maze of streets, a 16th-century castle and plenty of shops, bars and restaurants. There are plenty of beaches and swimming bays along the coast around both towns.

Also close by is Castellana Grotte, famous for its stunning cave complex, which comprises over 3km of subterranean paths, cathedral-high caverns, stalactites and much more, all running about 60m below ground.

A short drive inland will take you to the gentle hills of the Valle d'Itria, where you might visit the beautiful towns of Alberobello (a UNESCO Heritage Site thanks to its wonderful trulli-laden centre), Cisternino and, further south, the white city of Ostuni. All offer plenty to see, regular markets, as well as a good selection of bars, shops, restaurants and trattorie. World class sites a little further afield include the stunning baroque centre of Lecce, while golf enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Masseria Ciasca is less than half an hour's drive from two golf courses near Savelletri to the southeast.