Located in the historic core of Lecce, amongst the Labyrinth of alleyways and piazzas, Palazzo Salia was going to be an excellent base from which to explore the beautiful capital of the Salento. My host, Mauro, was immediately welcoming to his picturesque home, that had once functioned as a convent, and is next door to a beautiful church. Entering through a low wooden door (mind your head), you find yourself in the historic hallway and reception area.
My accommodation, on the first floor, was spacious, light and roomy, and really suited to a family with a large double bed in the main bedroom that opened out on to a small balcony overlooking the quiet street below. The adjoining room contained 2 single beds, and had a picturesque view over the back yard, across the roof space of the house next door, and to the beautiful church beyond that.
The bathroom was ideal, and in fact, the whole accommodation had a light, clean and airy feel about it, and was very comfortable. Breakfast was superb at Palazzo Salia, as we were offered a truly delicious selection of homemade cakes, with yoghurt and fresh fruit, cheeses and ham, juice and fresh coffee. It was a sumptous offering that really set you up for the day.
Mauro and his niece, Nicoletta ran the breakfast show, and what a show it was! You could choose to sit inside or in the simple outdoor courtyard which proved to be a good place to meet people from around the world, including two intrepid Australian elderly ladies who were having an extended adventure in Italy. When I chatted with them, they were about to embark on a cruise along the coast of Croatia.
Additionally, Mauro supplied some really great restaurant recommendations upon request, as this is now my firm habit wherever I stay – ask the proprietor where is good to eat. The two eateries that I tried were top notch and within about five minutes walk from my accommodation. At the nearest restaurant of the two, Nonna Tetti, I tried braised horsemeat for the first time and found it surprisigly tender and delicious, and it would certainly be something I would order again.
I asked Mauro how long he had been at the helm Palazzo Salia, and what were the highs ansd lows of running the business. He told me, “It has been six years as of this year. In terms of guest numbers, things are only a bit quiet in January and the first few days of February; the rest of the year there are always guests, especially in spring and autumn. Otherwise, it’s always a wonderful adventure, and it’s great meeting guests from all over the world. There’s always something to learn. Meeting new people is always a great thrill for me and enriches me.”
With Mauro and his family steering this ship, I am convinced that Palazzo Salia will go from strength to strength, and should I find myself in Lecce again, the capital of the Salentno, a return to Palazzo Salia is, I think, an absolute certainty. However, I would encourage you to do much more thhan read this article; why not try it for yourself? I gurantee you won’t be disappointed…
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