back

A completely renovated 19th-century villa in Salento
not far from Nardo, in Puglia

Our opinion

Here, nature and human genius joined forces several millennia ago to produce and perpetuate infinite beauty. This is Salento, the heel of the Italian boot, the crossroads of all civilisations. Here, everything: earth, sky and sea, are all light. So how can even a tiny part of this treasure be left to deteriorate? This question has led to the Villa Casabella regaining its place among the architectural marvels that abound in the region. Of course, it had to be given a new shape and structure, but the result is nothing short of perfection. Colours, lines, decoration: the extra touches it has been given are of the utmost delicacy. All you have to do is relax and you'll feel like you belong straight away.

Property owners’ take the floor

Why did you settle in this region, in this place and not elsewhere ?

The adventure began when three friends decided to join forces to save an old villa from demolition by transforming it into a charming holiday destination.

What specific architectural features does your building have ?

This villa is a classic example of 19th-century Salentine architecture. During the restoration, we preserved the original patinas, authentic details and elegant vaulted ceilings, preserving its original charm.

What is its history ?

The history of the villa is that it was a summer residence belonging to a noble family from Salento, a refuge where they spent their summers in peace and quiet in the countryside.

What can you offer people staying with you ?

We offer a wide range of unique experiences: tours in vintage cars to noble and medieval villas, visits to art towns such as Nardò, Galatina and Lecce, and olive oil and wine tastings in the best cellars in Salento.

Places you would personally recommend

The villa is located along the Salentum Heritage Itinerary, a touristic cycle route that links the countryside, historic houses, castles and masseria to the Porto Selvaggio park and its magnificent white sandy beaches. The Porto Selvaggio Regional Park, with its eight kilometres of seafront, can be explored along the rocky coastline or through the pine forest. There are sensational views from the heights of the medieval observation tower. The park itself is home to one of Europe's most important archaeological and prehistoric sites. "Il Mignano" restaurant, set in a splendid baroque palazzo in the heart of the historic centre of Nardo, serves refined cuisine. "Corallo", on the seafront in Santa Maria al Bagno, for its delicious fish dishes, and "Gustavo", in Galatone, for its original menu that changes every week. At the “Blu Mare” fish restaurant in Sant'Isidor, you can enjoy lunch by the water, opposite the spectacular transparent sea. "Schola Sarmenti", in Nardo, where you can buy great wines or taste them, and enjoy authentic tasting experiences to discover Puglia's wine and food culture.