Ai Due Monelli

The room itself was roomy and inviting, with a four-poster bed we found very comfortable and air conditioning that worked well. We paid €120.00 for one night in the suite with a hot tub at "La Dimora delle Rondini," a place with a classic look and Baroque details. The furniture didn't all feel safe, though. The chairs at the foot of the bed were wobbly, and one had a broken arm. That seemed at odds with the elegant style the property is going for. We were most disappointed by the tub. It was too small for two, and even with the setting on cold, the water came out hot. Since it was August, we'd wanted it cooler. We told the owner, who said she'd get in touch with a plumber, but with San Lorenzo coming the next day, it was hard to see a repair happening in time. Problems like this need to be sorted before guests arrive, and we didn't get the relaxing soak we'd hoped for. There should also be a careful check after the cleaning is done. A little more care and attention could make this a much better stay. We might have recommended the B&B to anyone if things had been almost right. Such a shame.

Breakfast was a real highlight: Rosa chooses good-quality ingredients and bakes two or three cakes each morning, with classic flavors and some inspired by Apulian cooking. There are plenty of other sweets and fruit, plus a savory option. It's one of the most generous and delicious breakfasts I've had. We stayed in the Domini Suite, with its whirlpool tub, in a historic building in central Galatina. The old entrance opens onto elegant Baroque furnishings, all chosen with care. Our bed was very comfortable, the rooms were cleaned every day, and Rosa was on hand whenever we needed anything. I highly recommend B&B Dimora delle Rondini if you're visiting Salento. Galatina is well placed for getting to the main sights.

The pastries and cappuccino at breakfast were good, but the fruit was old and wrinkled, barely enough to fill out the plate. The value for the price didn't match what was offered. There was also a mix-up with the payment. Our room was huge and the furnishings seemed well chosen, but the fuchsia and blue walls felt out of place, even in an old building. When we arrived around 2:30 PM, the woman was having coffee with someone else and didn't offer us any, or even water. We'd stayed in plenty of places on this trip, and a small welcome would have been a nice start. A pleasant property and conversation can't replace those little courtesies.

Rosa runs this beautifully furnished B&B with care and professionalism. I've stayed here three times, and the breakfast has been excellent and varied each time, with lots of tasty cakes she bakes herself. Highly recommend it. Galatina is lovely too, right in the heart of Salento. Long live the dwelling of the swallows, Galatina, and Puglia.