VILLA IL GELSO - CASTRO - APULIA
5 BEDROOMS – POOL
Authentic, seafront villa with private access to the sea and swimming pool.

Location and Surrounding Area. Villa Il Gelso is only a couple of steps away from the sea in one of the most scenic parts of the mythical Salento in Puglia. The nearby Roman harbour and fishing village of Castro has a historical centre up on the hill and a lively marina below. There are plenty of shops and restaurants in the village, all within walking distance of the villa.

The nearby coastline is studded with pretty caves, perhaps the most famous being the spectacular Grotta Zinzulusa limestone caves. In addition to the stunning natural beauty, the area is significant for its local archaeological finds. The turquoise waters in the sheltered cove at Porto Badisco make for safe swimming and excellent snorkelling. According to Virgil, Porto Badisco was the site of Aeneas’s first landing in Italy after his escape from Troy but some historians dispute the fact and suggest Castro instead.

The city of Otranto offers all the splendours of an original Greek settlement. The city's story is perhaps best told in the cathedral with its large-scale mosaics dating back to the 12th century and the bones of the 813 martyrs displayed behind the altar. The city is set on the spectacular Adriatic coastline and also offers gorgeous, sandy beaches and lively beach clubs.

Beautiful baroque Lecce has to be seen to be believed. It's the perfect destination for wandering around the little lanes and admiring the distinctive 17th century architecture. It has a delightful historical centre and an excavated Roman amphitheatre.

Villa Il Gelso is 19 km from Otranto and 25 km from Santa Maria di Leuca, which is right on the southernmost tip of Puglia. It is 50 km from Gallipoli, the last outpost of Magna Grecia. The stunning, baroque capital of Lecce is 50 km away and if you enjoy a round of golf, there is an 18-hole Golf Club not far away in Acaya. The nearest international airport is Brindisi and is 90 km away.

The Property. Villa Il Gelso sleeps up to ten guests in five double bedrooms, each with its own en suite bathroom. The bedrooms are chic, stylish and air-conditioned, as are all of the rooms in the villa, reflecting the natural colours of the local land and seascapes. There are two gorgeous kitchens, which will entice you into preparing delicious meals to be eaten al fresco under the stars on the panoramic terrace. The living area opens out directly onto the terraces and gardens and the swimming pool have marvellous views out over the sea. The poolside area is charmingly furnished with sun loungers and there is direct access to the spectacular rocky coastline of the Adriatic sea. A short path leads down into the water.