Casa Leonardo is nestled just a five-minute drive from the coast, just south of Gallipoli, in Puglia, the “heel” of Italy.
There are many restaurants towards the coast and also some excellent choices in the historic town of Taviano, only 4km away. Admire the beautiful architecture and this town full of history and be sure to try some of the local Salento wine that this area is well known for.
The nearby coastline (3km) offers crystal-clear waters and a rocky coastline, ideal for snorkelling as well as swimming. Further north, there are sandier beaches and longer stretches, including the wonderful Baia Verde (15km), just south of Gallipoli, where you will find clear shallow waters which are ideal for children as well as great nightlife as the day draws to a close.
Gallipoli (16km), meaning beautiful city in Greek is a summer escape known for being surround by water on all sides, with a longstanding fishing history and seafood featuring heavily in the cuisine. The
centro storico is stunningly pretty, with winding alleyways, artisan boutiques and endless eateries.
Around forty minutes south, visitors will reach Santa Maria di Leuca (38km), Puglia's southern-most tip, where you can watch the boats in the marina or even take a trip out to see local caves along the dramatic coastline.
Other noteworthy places to visit include Specchia (28km), one of Italy's prettiest villages as well as the great city of Lecce with its great shops and well as historic sights.
The region is known for its olive oil production, as evidenced by the surrounding stretches of olive groves as well as its distinctive white-washed hill towns, centuries old farmland and kilometres of Mediterranean coastline.