Mantatelure, Lecce, Puglia, southern Italy - Explore & Book

"Mantatelurè means ‘King’s Mantle’ in local dialect, and this refined guesthouse lives up to its noble name, with 6 exclusive-feeling rooms and suites, and 2 enchanting 1-bedroom apartments. Only 300m from the crazily carved Baroque Basilica Santa Croce, one of Lecce’s foremost sights, this is nonetheless on a quiet, off-the-beaten-track street, not lined by tourist shops or restaurants like many others in the historic centre. Owners Marco and Marta’s attention to detail is apparent from the moment you walk in, from the array of Marco’s homemade cakes and biscuits, to the beautiful, pale patterned tiles that he rescued from a 17th-century palazzo in order to decorate steps throughout the guesthouse. There are lots of luxe touches, such as handmade welcome chocolates, surround-sound radio and rainfall showers. But, despite the high-end fittings, Mantatelurè is laid-back and informal; perfect for couples who like intimate, luxurious, characterful places to stay. The graceful building centres on a courtyard garden, with sunbeds, tables and chairs, as well as a hot tub that guests can book for their personal use. There’s plenty to see and do in Lecce, plus you’re well situated for exploring Puglia, particularly Salento and the Valle d’Itria. Highs Great for couples, with a grown-up atmosphere, romantic rooms, and a hot tub in the courtyard where you can sip proseccoLecce is an enchanting, historic city full of mesmerising architecture, plus it's within easy reach of the coast and the area's famous trulli settlementsFantastic breakfasts with lots of local and homemade produce, and apartments for those who wish to self-caterA beautiful old building, gracefully converted, in a picturesque, quiet neighbourhoodSpecial little touches, from the candles lining the outdoor steps after dark to the charging stations in each room Lows Reception is not open all day - this is a guesthouse and won’t suit those who like 24-hour room serviceApartment guests can take breakfast or self-cater, although the latter requires a sizeable security depositNo children under 11 are accepted" - Abigail Blasi