Villa Paretone

This lovely family home can be found in the countryside close to the ‘città bianca’ of Martina Franca. A short 10 minute drive brings you to the ‘centro storico’ (historic centre) which will no doubt, become the ‘go to’ place for a morning cappuccino under the 'portici' (arcades), a cooling gelato in the afternoon and dinners alfresco in the lively piazzas encircled with beautiful ornate Baroque buildings and white washed houses.

Spacious grounds of vines, fields and trees surround Villa Paretone on three sides, with a dedicated area by the villa for the pool, barbecue house and dining terraces. Pretty flowers and shrubs edge the pool area where a paved terrace is the ideal spot for sunbathing.

The internal colour scheme echoes the soft natural tones of the exterior walls and terracing, with white walls and pale floors. A vaulted ceiling of local stone is the focal point in the living room, which is at the centre of the villa. At one end, a corridor leads to two bedrooms and a shower room whilst at the opposite end, steps lead down to a shower room and beyond to a smart kitchen diner, with access to the front terrace. Completing the accommodation is a third bedroom with access to the poolside terrace, handy for those who like an early morning dip before the others awake.

Olive groves, vineyards and an abundance of ‘trulli’ fill the countryside between Martina Franca and Ceglie Messapica (15km), where gleaming white washed buildings and white paved streets create a pretty picture. You are also ideally placed to discover the beaches on both sides of the region: Torre Canne on the Adriatic coast is a 40 minute drive, Campomarino on the Ionian coast is 1hr away. Whichever coast you choose, you will discover sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and seaside resorts that are buzzing with Italian 'dolce vita'.