Luxury Holiday Villas in Lecce
In the southernmost of Puglia’s six regions, a luxury holiday in Lecce offers an excellent base for discovering some of Puglia’s most fascinating towns. These include Lecce itself, as well as Gallipoli, Nardo, Maglie, Santa Maria di Leuca and Otranto. All are scattered across an enticing rural landscape of olive groves and vineyards. In a region where the Adriatic and Ionian coasts meet, there is no shortage of beautiful beaches to enjoy either.
At the heart of the region sits the city of Lecce itself. Affectionately referred to as the ‘Florence of the South’, its Baroque architecture provides a stark contrast to the styles seen elsewhere in Puglia.
All our villas in Lecce are located in the province of Lecce.
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Towns and Cities in Lecce
Gallipoli
A characterful coastal town, Gallipoli’s historic centre sits on a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge. Once part of greater Greece, its name literally means ‘beautiful city’ in Greek. A young and fashionable destination, visitors are drawn to the town’s white sandy beaches and lively nightlife.
Lecce
As Puglia’s Baroque jewel, Lecce feels rather unique. Rich in history, visitors can explore the remains of a Roman amphitheatre in the Piazza Sant’ Oronzo whilst just minutes away is the Baroque facade of the Basilica di Santa Croce, the stunning 12th-century Duomo and the later 17th-century 70-metre-high bell tower designed by Giuseppe Zimbalo. Quiet, shuttered streets in the heat of the midday Summer sun are transformed at night as a host of independent bars, cafes and shops open for trade.
Maglie
A working market town, Maglie provides visitors with an authentic taste for everyday Puglian life. This historic old town is filled with handsome buildings, attractive piazzas and local artisan stores, offering an insight into traditional Puglian culture.
Nardo
Largely rebuilt in the 18th-century due to an earthquake in 1743, Nardo’s Baroque Leccesse architecture is ornate and impressive. It is also famous for its stunning coastline, just fifteen minutes away by car from its historic centre.
Otranto
Italy’s easternmost city, Otranto combines a beautiful old town with a stunning seaside setting. Take time to explore the flower-filled narrow alleyways that sit within its historic centre. And enjoy the panoramic views towards the Balkans and Greece that greet you as you turn many a corner. The 12th-century mosaic floor depicting the tree of life in the Cattedrale dell’ Annuziata is not to be missed. Or just take in the slower pace of life that Otranto provides on its sandy beaches and seafront promenades.
Santa Maria di Leuca
At Puglia’s southernmost tip, Santa Maria di Leuca is known for its landmark lighthouse and elegant waterfront villas as well as its dramatic coastline dotted with caves and beautiful white sandy beaches. A real mix of architectural styles – Moorish, liberty, gothic and Arabic – all vie for attention here.
Best areas to stay in on a luxury holiday in Lecce
The best area to stay in on a luxury villa holiday in Lecce will depend on whether you want to prioritise sightseeing or beach-related activities. However, the province is relatively compact so even an inland villa can give you access to both coastlines as well as its historic towns.
Our preference would be to stay in Otranto if you’re in search of seaside relaxation on the Adriatic coast and either Nardo or Gallipoli over on the western Ionian coast. However, Lecce is the perfect base if you’re looking for culture and great restaurants during your luxury villa holiday.
Amenities for your luxury holiday villa in Lecce
Stay in a traditional masseria
For a truly authentic Puglian experience, choose a beautifully restored masseria such as Masseria Fica. Like Masseria Majestic, this was once a working farmhouse. These days, luxury villas like these with their original stonework and traditional architectural features, offer a characterful place to stay combined with generous outdoor spaces and private pools.
Villas near the beach
With both the Adriatic and Ionian coastlines to choose from, there are a number of luxury villas in Lecce offering easy access to the beach. Villa Trico and Masseria Ceria are both just minutes away from the sea.
Things to do on a luxury holiday in Lecce
A luxury holiday in Lecce offers the perfect balance between sightseeing and beach relaxation. After all, none of the main towns we recommend you visit are more than a 20-minute drive from Puglia’s coastline. Explore a historic town centre in the morning, spend the afternoon on the beach and return to your luxury villa in Lecce before the sun goes down for a delicious dinner under the stars.
Frequently asked questions about booking a luxury holiday villa in Lecce
Is Lecce suitable for a family villa holiday?
Absolutely. A luxury villa in Lecce will provide families with plenty of space and flexibility. And, the province of Lecce offers plenty of family-friendly beaches, boat trips, historic towns and opportunities for days out that all the family will enjoy.
How far are the beaches from Lecce?
The city of Lecce sits approximately a 20-minute drive from the nearest beaches on the Adriatic coast. But if you want to be even closer, opt for a luxury villa in one of the province’s coastal towns – Gallipoli, Otranto or Santa Maria di Leuca.
What is the best time to visit Lecce?
We recommend you visit during May, June, September and early October. At this time, you will find warm weather but fewer visitors than in the height of summer. However, July and August are great months if you want guaranteed heat and a lively atmosphere.
