Sunny Townhouse w/ Roof Terrace in Historic Center

The historic, sun-filled Santa Maria townhouse is situated in the town center of Oria, a charming medieval hamlet in central Puglia. This meticulously maintained home boasts supremely comfortable living spaces, an ultra-panoramic terrace, wellness corner, and an equipped kitchen perfect for home chefs. Vaulted ceilings, colorful tiled floors, and unique accents (think: locally sourced antiques and Pugliese ceramics) create a distinctive Mediterranean environment ideal for short or long stays. Living room: Vaulted ceilings, comfortable furnishings, a brand new fold-out double sofa bed, and a sunny balcony overlooking the tiny piazza of Santa Maria al Tempio conspire to create a peaceful environment equally suited to an evening glass of primitivo and a morning map review in advance of the day’s adventures. Dining room: Opening onto a sunny, cactus-lined balcony and featuring a spacious dining table that accommodates four as well as easy kitchen access, the colorfully tiled dining room is the perfect place to celebrate the seasonal bounty of the rich Pugliese land. Kitchen: The Pugliese know that good food is everything and the well stocked kitchen has all the tools a home chef requires to prepare, present, and enjoy it all. Featuring a stovetop and oven, full sized refrigerator, dishwasher, electric kettle and toaster plus thoughtful details such as pie pans, high quality knives, Southern Mediterranean cookbooks, and more, this is a kitchen designed for cooking. Bedroom: The petite bedroom features exceptionally high ceilings, a queen sized bed with cotton bedding, two nightstands, and easy-open window for a gentle evening breeze. Terrace: An internal whitewashed stone staircase leads up to the panoramic terrace, the comfortable loungers just the place to bask in the glow of the morning sun or to raise a glass as dramatic night falls. On a clear day the terrace provides views of both the Adriatic and Ionian seas while ancient groves of olives stretch out as far as the eye can see. Wellness corner: Two yoga mats, Trigger Point Performance foam roller, and athletic bands are provided for seasoned fitness aficionados or guests looking to relax and restore. On some occasions I may not be in town during your stay. When I cannot be present, guests will be greeted by a personable house manager who will show you around and help you to settle in. Regardless of where I am in the world I am always available via email / text to provide itinerary ideas and local tips as well as restaurant recommendations and nearby running or routes. I look forward to ensuring your stay is a magical one! Oria is a delight, a charming hilltop hamlet as historic as it is cheerful. Originally founded by Greeks shipwrecked in 1200 BC, today Oria is a maze of narrow cobblestone lanes opening onto pleasant piazzas dotted with charming cafés. The crowning castle to emperor Frederick II stands perfectly preserved above, overlooking the bountiful vineyards, olive groves, beaches and swimming coves in all directions. Oria has some notable Jewish history and was the site of one of the largest, longest-lived Jewish communities in Puglia. Less touristy than other towns in the area, Oria is an excellent choice for those desiring an ultra-central, authentic, small town experience. This is a place where smiles are exchanged freely, olive oil nourishes, coffee is served short, and fresh mozzarella and burrata are delivered to your door by the cheesemaker himself. The townhouse is within steps of the many restaurants, bars and shops dotted around the historical center. Nearby: There is much to see and do in the area – from the beaches of the Ionian and Adriatic coasts, to the whimsical conical architecture of the local trulli dwellings. Gourmet travelers should stop in at the charming local market town of Mesagne, with its bakeries, wine co-ops and cheese shops. Puglia is also rich in picturesque medieval cities, such as Ostuni and Martina Franca, their atmospheric narrow streets lined with an abundance of restaurants specializing in the delectable local cuisine. The baroque city of Lecce is about 1 hour away. Though Oria is serviced by train a car is recommended.