La casa in campagna di Ottavia

The location was the one convenient thing, but the place felt expensive for what it offered. The owner was very kind, yet this was a countryside house rather than a villa. Porcelain dolls were everywhere, and breakfast meant coffee from a thermos and snacks set out on an outdoor table. The bathroom was flooded, possibly because of a broken pipe, and housekeeping was poor, if it happened at all. The pool was just short of being inflatable. I was so unhappy with the choice that we left two nights early. I didn't take any photos, which was probably for the best.

I couldn't wait to get out of there. The room smelled so strongly of damp that it was hard to breathe, had no lamps, and the bathroom had rusty fittings and old furniture. Even the entrance was cluttered and dirty, with porcelain dolls everywhere. Outside, the parking area had broken cars and rubbish. It felt like a Roma camp. I wouldn't recommend this place at all.

The owner was kind and willing to help, but that wasn't enough to make this an acceptable B&B. There were no mosquito screens despite the countryside setting, no air conditioning, and the electrical system seemed incomplete and dangerous. The outdoor area wasn't looked after, and the cleaning was inadequate. I hope I can forget the experience soon.

The staff were so friendly and attentive, and they were happy to handle extra requests even after we had booked, which really mattered to us. The setting is peaceful and surrounded by nature, while Gallipoli and plenty of other tourist spots are only a short distance away.