Casa de Marra Italy

This home away from home in the heart of a quaint town is superb for a big group looking to get away together, while still having their private time. 
This villa is a place to escape to, with a difference. It has five separate apartments all opening up and accessible to the beautiful courtyard. Each space offers a bright and airy bedroom with an en-suite and they are all air-conditioned, offering a restful place to lay your head after a long day exploring. 
Each space connects to a separate open-plan area, which all boast a small but well-equipped kitchen and dining area. These areas are brilliant for cooking and enjoying a private meal full of local delicacies. Three of the apartments also have a couch that turns into a pullout double bed for the remaining guests – also ideal for those travelling with children. 
This quirky villa accommodates up to 16 guests, and it’s a perfect place to call home for a large group. Cook up a big meal in the five kitchens, and then enjoy your feast in the courtyard reminiscing over the day’s explorations. It’s a cosy home, with each room decorated uniquely but still staying true to the traditional Italian design. 
Reveal in the heat of the day at the private pool, either taking a dip or worshipping the sun on one of the sun-loungers. Morning cups of coffee can, and should, be enjoyed poolside. 
The villa also has a laundry room, tucked off the courtyard, which again is handy for those travelling as a family. It’s a safe place, and though it is in the middle of the town the tall walls and trees make it feel as though you are in your own oasis – which just so happens to be a short amble to a good pastry or gelato. 
Located in Racale, this villa is a short walk from restaurants, bakeries, food markets, and a pharmacy. The closest beach is Torre Suda (6.3km), so within a short drive, you can be enjoying the stunning waters. It’s a great, central location that is near many of the area’s hot-spot, such as Gallipoli (18km) and Lecce (54km). Racale is a lovely town, and relatively untouched by tourists. It has a charming allure, with an old town centre, beautiful buildings with stunning facades, and most importantly plenty of cafes, restaurants, bakeries, and bars to sample the area’s tasty cuisine. This spot is also home to monuments from the megalithic period and ancient archaeological remains, so whether you’re exploring the churches or the 12th-century bell tower, you get a true sense of the incredible history. Be sure not to miss the Baron’s Castle. 
The villa is just a short drive to the coast, with the wild shoreline and crystal waters of Torre Suda just a 10 minute drive away (7km). Also known as Spiaggia di Racale (Racale Beach) this spot offers a nice restaurant, a bar, and a coastline with umbrellas and sun loungers to rent for the day. It is a pebbled beach, don’t forget your beach shoes! 
Gallipoli is also close to the villa, just a 20-minute drive (18km). This coastal town has many magnificent beaches, both with free access and others with sun loungers and umbrellas to hire. There’s also plenty of historical sites to enjoy, such as St. Agatha’s Cathedral, Church of St. Mary of Purity, and the Gallipoli Castle. This spot is known as one of Italy’s most interesting places to explore, it’s also incredibly picturesque which is no surprise seeing as when it was founded by the Greeks they originally called it Kallipolli, which means ‘beautiful city’. 
Lecce is just under an hour’s drive away and it is well worth a day trip (54km). Marvel in the incredible Baroque buildings and sites, where the architecture is extravagant and the smells of authentic foods drift through the cobbled streets. It’s the kind of place to amble aimlessly, stopping to take in the sites of a church or building, and grabbing a glass of local rosé from a wine bar. Don’t miss the Roman Amphitheatre and Piazza Sant’Oronzo, Lecce Cathedral, and Basilica di Santa Croce. At Excellence Luxury Villas we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request from below or contact Excellence Luxury Villas Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
– Maid service/extra cleaning  – Private chef/cook/catering – Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge – Local day-trips or tours – Airport pick-up/drop-off – Babysitting / childcare services – Bike hire
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!