La Fiermontina, Lecce, Italy - Explore & Book

"This is a hotel with an artistic soul, and 2 romantic tales attached. The owner’s grandmother, Antonia Fiermonte, ran away from her village to 1930s Paris, where she married French sculptor René Letourneur, before ditching him for his best friend, sculptor Jacques Zwobada. Le Fiermontina is a tribute to her, filled with artworks by both husbands and other artists such as Le Corbusier. The second tale regards her brother, another colourful character. A boxer, he later became a Hollywood actor, and married American socialite Nancy Astor – the chic basement bar is dedicated to him, bright with posters of his boxing and film career. The hotel itself merges Parisian style with Puglian culture (the owner is from Paris but his roots are here), and has a pole position in Lecce, Puglia's most splendid town. The historic city walls skirt its shady, sculpture-dotted gardens, and so much space is a surprise this close to the centre. 18 elegant suites, many with lofty star-pinnacled ceilings, are found within the converted, golden-stone 17th-century buildings. The restaurant, Zephyr, brings you light, contemporary Mediterranean dishes; enjoy them outside in summer in a citrus grove, or in the barrel-vaulted dining room. There's a quiet grandeur about the place, and the minimalism and peace make it an ideal place for couples. Highs Space and calm in Lecce's city centre, a short walk from the main sights Elegant interior design (from Paris) and careful attention to detail Lots of space in the 18 rooms, and many have a terrace or garden Charming, friendly service, which gives a personal feel Shady lawns, fragrant orange trees and a lovely pool Lows Expensive, and rates don't include tax No spa, though treatments are available in your room It almost feels too grown up for kids, yet they are welcome and you'll feel at ease with them here" - Abigail Blasi