Palazzo Vecchio B&B

A converted old mansion makes for a distinctive B&B in a central spot. The rooms come in different sizes and are large and airy. Staff were friendly, and local restaurants are an easy walk away. The pool wasn't in use at this time of year. Breakfast was plentiful, though there were no cereals.

Breakfast in the castle courtyard was fantastic, with pastries, fresh fruit, and more to enjoy each morning until 10:30 AM. The place was very clean, and the staff deserve congratulations. The pool is a gem, with shaded spots where you can eat at 1:00 AM even in mid-August. The castle has a unique atmosphere, and the owners are so kind. It's an oasis of peace in a special setting. Don't book expecting a modern five-star luxury hotel. You're in Salento, experiencing and enjoying Salento.

This historic building could draw plenty of tourists, but the management of its upkeep and cleanliness lets it down. When we arrived, the sheets were dirty and torn, so we asked to have them changed. We also found earthworms in the room, probably drawn by the humidity. The very old, untreated wooden furniture was full of moths. Breakfast was terrible. The jams and Nutella, for example, were from Lidl and left in shared containers for guests to serve themselves, with no individual portions. There weren't enough breakfast seats for everyone. It felt like the epitome of Salento tourism: no services and sky-high prices.

We'd read complaints about the pool and breakfast, but our experience was different. Breakfast was simple yet very well prepared, with plenty to choose from: bread and sweet or savory toppings, fruit, dolce vita, eggs, toast, coffee, and tea. The pool was wonderful. With such a lush garden, you might even see a fly swimming along with you. Who cares!? The rooms were spotless and well kept, and the owners were incredibly kind and helpful. The air conditioning could be noisy at times, though we didn't find it bothersome, and it's understandable in an old palace. The bathroom was small but functional. If it gets renovated, I'd prefer a shower door to a curtain, but those are minor details. For the price, you get a beautiful, unique, well-maintained place.