Agriturismo Campo Antico

The owner smoked everywhere, even in the kitchen while preparing food. That was the last straw. I’m sorry, because we were there for a lovely celebration, but the management felt embarrassing and rude. We were told guests who booked had been promised flexibility, so I asked about a late checkout since we’d be getting back very late. The answer was a firm no, along with a lecture about people not wanting to work. In the end, the bride had to call on her wedding morning to repeat the late checkout arrangement. Arrival times seemed to make no sense: we were told that if we missed 2:30 p.m., they wouldn’t reopen until 5:30. The property also smelled awful inside and was in poor shape. The pool diving board seemed dangerous and wasn’t marked. In the room, the air conditioner and refrigerator were painfully noisy. Breakfast was included in what we’d paid in advance, but from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. they served a cappuccino and a slice of plum cake. I wouldn’t recommend this place even to my worst enemy.

We drove just a few minutes to reach the sea, only a few kilometers away. The beach was beautiful, and at sunset the red sun over Mount Pollino reflected on the water in gorgeous colors. We also had dinner at the agriturismo, and it was well worth it. Everything was fresh, and the menu changed each day depending on what ingredients were available. Breakfast, which we paid for separately, was generous and delicious, with the owner’s homemade jams and local fruit. The room was spacious and spotless, with lovely attention to detail. I liked the idea of naming each room after a child. The property itself is stunning, with a beautiful garden and pool. I highly recommend it.

Antonella deserves a special mention for being so warm and kind. The owner, who’s also the chef, was just as lovely and helpful, and a real talent in the kitchen. We enjoyed his homemade jams and tasty liqueurs. We had a wonderful family weekend here. The rooms were comfortable and had everything we needed. We’ll definitely come back for the food and the peaceful setting.

The price felt absurd for how few services were provided. I wouldn’t come back, and I can’t recommend it. The bed bases, supposedly orthopedic, were another problem. Breakfast was so poor that we complained, and only then did they bring out a few extra things for the children, who’d been left hungry. We still had to stop at a bar afterward. The farmhouse has a lot of potential, but the upkeep leaves a lot to be desired. I’ve stayed in many places and never had an experience like this. The air conditioning was incredibly noisy, like something from 1800, and the windows had no mosquito screens. I don’t understand how anyone could call this a high-quality property. Seeing it for yourself is believing.