Amareclub Baia dei Turchi

The beach was beautiful, reached by walking through the Macchia Mediterranea, with clear blue water beyond. Guests have exclusive use of it, and Amadou was kind and helpful there. We could have walked the 15 minutes through the countryside, but in the heat we took the guest shuttle, which came every 15 minutes and got us there in five. We stayed from June 18 to 25 on half board. Breakfast had a wide international selection, and dinner came with an appetizer buffet, a choice of two first and second courses, usually meat or fish, plus dessert and fruit. Bottled still or sparkling water was served. The food was very good, especially the cakes. The restaurant service was less impressive, as many of the waiters seemed young and inexperienced. I hope management improves that. The hotel is out in the countryside near Otranto, in Baia dei Turchi, and there are no other hotels close by, so it’s very quiet. The architecture has an eastern feel, more Moroccan than Turkish, and the atmosphere is lovely. It’s a childfree hotel, which matters if you're after a fully relaxing holiday. The pool is large and beautiful, though it needs some maintenance. Our room upstairs was spacious and comfortable, with a balcony, and cleanliness was okay. Evening entertainment suited me: I don't enjoy lots of chaotic activities, and things felt balanced. There was piano bar music, and the singer, Azis, was good. It’s a four-star hotel. It used to belong to one owner, but Futura Vacanza now owns and manages it. I had booking problems with Futura Vacanza, but Francesco, a receptionist who had worked there since the previous management, sorted everything out.

We left straight away and won't be back. The place was filthy, there was no soundproofing, most staff were unpleasant, and the food was poor. This was easily the worst hotel we've stayed in. It doesn't meet the standard for even two stars, so I can't understand the positive reviews. I'd sooner sleep on a sun lounger than stay here again.

I loved the pool and spent a day at the private beach in Alimini. Baia Del Turchi resort felt welcoming and had the kind of class Italians know how to bring. The food ranged from Atypico Puglian and modern Italian to familiar Italian favourites, plus Moroccan and other exotic dishes. There was great food and partying, good prices compared with elsewhere, and baroque history at the castles. As an Australian, I was lucky to stay here in southern Italy. I hadn't known the region until an Italian friend told me Italians come here in summer. Now I see why: it feels like an untouched paradise compared with the rest of Mediterranean Europe, and it was a welcome change from ordinary Australian beach culture. I highly recommend the luxury experience. This region could one day be Europe's jewel. Thanks, Baia Del Turchi, I'll be back. Kate Della Australiano

The beaches can get crowded, but the water is usually clear and calm. There are lots of inexpensive places to eat, though the food isn't usually high quality.