Villa Sofia - Tradition and modernity in Salento

Villa Sofia is an ancient "palmento" in the heart of Salento. Thanks to a careful renovation of the original structure, it's able to give a relaxing stay and a discovery of the Apulian tradition. A set of Mediterranean environments surround the large garden enriched by a beautiful swimming pool. The space was originally a millstone where grapes were processed to turn it into wine. The entire structure is made of Lecce stone, a typical material of Salento constructions. At first glance, it is immediately clear that once it was a place where traditional work was carried out and you can immediately observe the magnificent renovation work. Villa Sofia is composed of 3 main buildings and a large garden with a swimming pool. To welcome customers at the entrance is an old olive tree of the millstone. The first building you meet, on the right, is one of the five bedrooms consisting of a bunk bed and a double bed, furnished with two wardrobes and a desk. This room is characterized by the millstone: a low tank dug into the rock where the grapes were pressed to produce the must. During the renovation, this element has been filled and is now the basis for the double bed; the room also has a bathroom. Going straight on, you access the second structure of the house: upon entering you find yourself in a living room including two sofas and armchairs: an environment to be enjoyed in the company of family and / or friends. This space can be used as a bedroom, having the possibility of opening the sofas and transforming them into two double beds. Further on, is a second bedroom with king size bed and a bathroom. Passing through the garden you can access another sleeping area; this room is connected to its bathroom through another living room which can also be used as a study. These rooms were the cellar of the old millstone, used to store large wine barrels. Moving onto the upper floor of the house you can find the other two bedrooms which include a double bed each. On the same floor there is also a utility room with a washing machine, where you can do your laundry independently. There are also two terraces from which you can observe the stars at night. The kitchen, complete with everything needed for daily life, is located in the third building, characterized by a very high ceiling and a very large space. It is also equipped with a fireplace that can be used in the less hot periods. The teak floor of the kitchen borders into the garden, on this wooden platform there is a long asian table excellent for outdoor meals enjoying the fresh Salento air. All rooms offer large windows that make them well lit during the day. Rocco, Monia and Leonello will do their best to make their guests feel comfortable. Rocco will be always reachable and available throughout the booking and stay phase: he will also be happy to receive any advice afterwards. He will try not to let you miss anything and organize everything in the best way. Monia will keep the structure in perfect condition, clean and tidy. Never, as in this period, her precise and meticulous work is necessary, in the name of cleanliness and hygiene. Leonello is the one who will help the guest with any practical problem of the structure. His extraordinary abilities make him a plumber, electrician, gardener and technician at the same time. He knows all the systems in the house: he will keep the garden and the plats in order and the swimming pool clean. Villa Sofia is located in a hamlet nearby Minervino di Lecce, Specchia Gallone. This small village has everything you need. A few meters from the structure you will find: supermarket, bakery, vegetable counter, bar, tobacconist, two restaurants and, if you need it, a very good barbershop! In 5 minutes by bike (there will be 3 bikes included with your reservation) you can reach Minervino, there you will find an ATM, a butcher, a market and many other services. The global position with respect to the Salento of these villages is perfect for visiting both the Adriatic coast (Pto Badisco, Otranto, Santa Cesarea, Castro, Torre Dell'Orso, Laghi Alimini) and the Ionian coast (Gallipoli, Maldives of Salento, Porto Selvaggio, Punta Della Suina). Otherwise, if you are looking to discover the culinary and cultural tradition of the Salento hinterland, you have a very long series of towns and cities at your disposal just a few minutes away by car that offers festivals, typical restaurants and wonderful historical structures. The area is full of bicycle paths that branch off among the olive trees. Guided tours can be organized in neighboring villages reachable by bike. However, it is recommended to have a car, as it is difficult to move around using public transportation. Distances: Sea: 9 km Porto Badisco; 10 km Santa Cesarea Brindisi (airport): 90 km Bari (airport): 210 km The house can be booked weekly from Saturday to Saturday. The price includes bed linen and towels, gas, water, electricity and a house cleaning service for three hours on the following days: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from June to September and Tuesday and Saturday from October to May. Doesn't include final cleaning costs and electric heating.